Electric Generator Backup And ATX Electrical

What Is An Electric Generator?

An electric generator is a machine known as a dynamo, used to convert mechanical energy from oil, natural gas, wind, water, nuclear reactions, or LPG, liquid petroleum gas, into electrical energy. The conversion process of mechanical energy to electrical power results from a process known as electromagnetic induction. This process involves fluids such as water, steam, and combustion gasses moving through the generator's engine, forcing blades on a rotor shaft to spin, and converting the mechanical energy to electrical energy.

Type Of Electrical Energy Produced By Electric Generators

Electric generators are either AC, alternating current, or DC, direct current, generators. The differences between the two include:

  • An AC generator producing electromagnetic induction with an alternating current will reverse direction periodically while DC generator electric current only flows in one direction.
  • The electrical output of an AC generator comes from either the stationary part of the rotary electromagnetic device, called the stator, or directly from the engine's rotor. In contrast, DC generator power provides electromagnetic induction by the rotor alone.
  • AC generators produce high voltage; DC generators produce a lower voltage.
  • AC generators are energy efficient, require less maintenance, and use a transformer to distribute the electrical current, while DC generators require frequent maintenance, and electrical transformers cannot be used.
  • The initial cost of an AC backup generator is higher than a DC generator.

Residential vs. Business Electric Generators

ATX Electrical recommends AC generators for Austin, Texas homes, as AC is the typical power for electric fixtures and small appliances. DC backup generators, while having a lower electric voltage, can maintain a smooth, steady power flow and are best for powering the large motors that are part of Austin, Texas industrial manufacturing.

There are three types of backup generators, with each type differing in purpose and type of fuel required:

Portable Generators: Portable generators, usually wired to subpanels of a facility's main electrical panel, use gas or diesel fuel, and provide temporary electrical power. Such a generator can be used in remote locations.

Inverter Generators: Inverter backup generators provide electricity in three phases: output of AC electricity, conversion to DC, and inverting to AC. Inverter generators maintain a constant electrical current to an appliance. Such generators are more energy-efficient as the engine's speed adjusts to the power needed. The AC can be set to any voltage and frequency. Inverter generators are small and lightweight and can fit into a car, RV, or boat.

Standby Generators: A standby generator is an electrical system that automatically turns power on when a power outage disrupts the normal flow of electricity. It uses an internal combustion engine and the same fuel type used by the facility or home. A standby generator will do weekly self-tests to ensure all is functioning correctly. Standby generators are typically used in safety systems for elevators, standby lighting, medical and life support equipment, and fire protection systems.

Standby Generators are called whole house generators. Portable generators are for temporary backup and usually use gasoline as the fuel source. Inverter generators are quieter and consume less fuel but cost more. Most commercial standby generators are large and are powered by diesel fuel. Small businesses and manufacturers may find portable generators enough to power their essential systems. A large company may use them to power air conditioning units or break rooms.

Why Invest In A Backup Electric Generator?

A backup generator is an essential investment where home medical equipment is a necessity. Backup generators are practical in saving the cost of replacing perishable foods in the fridge and provide 'creature comfort' when power outages occur. Backup generators increase home resale value and make the home easier to sell.

Using a backup generator in commercial businesses ensures the continued function of security systems, automatic doors, and elevators. It allows computers and industrial machinery to keep running without losing costly production time.

Contact ATX Electrical for a free consultation regarding the best backup generator for your home or business!

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