COMMERCIAL GENERATOR SIZING CALCULATOR
In industries ranging from oil and gas to hospitality and telecommunications, continuous operation is essential. Dependable generators are crucial for powering your facilities during both planned and unexpected outages. If your generators are not up to the task of meeting your energy needs, they cannot effectively support your operations. This is why it’s vital to verify that your company’s generators can handle your required loads, and more.
A commercial generator sizing calculator is designed for this purpose. It quickly converts units and calculates power needs with precision.
HOW TO DETERMINE THE RIGHT GENERATOR SIZE
Before you use a generator sizing tool, gather necessary data by considering these questions:
- What will the generator power? Compile a comprehensive list of all items that will rely on generator power. This thorough inventory is crucial to avoid underestimating your power requirements.
- What are the starting and running wattages of these items? Typically, this information is found in the owner’s manuals. If these aren’t available, and you know the model number and manufacturer, try looking up the manual online or check the equipment’s identification plate. Alternatively, you might use a power consumption chart, although this method might not provide specific enough data.
- What is the total power requirement of these items? Once you’ve gathered individual data, sum it up. Remember to use kilowatts (kW) as the measurement unit, as this is standard for commercial generators in the U.S.
CALCULATING YOUR TOTAL POWER REQUIREMENTS
There are multiple methods to ascertain your total power needs:
- Measure peak usage with a clamp-on ammeter: This tool helps measure the total amps your facility uses, focusing on peak times to ensure your generator can handle maximum demand.
- Examine your monthly power bills: This is a straightforward method, particularly useful for businesses with seasonal variations. Your utility bills should highlight peak usage, which you can then increase by 25% to add a buffer for reserve capacity.
- Calculate based on facility size: Certain industries, like hospitality, might calculate power needs based on square footage. Add a specific wattage per square foot to estimate your requirements.
VARIABLES TO CONSIDER WHEN SIZING A GENERATOR
Even with a precise calculator, entering incorrect data can lead to unsuitable sizing. Consider these factors:
- Voltage dips: These occur when generators start and motors resume, drawing significant current. A dip beyond 15% can damage both generators and equipment.
- Phase power: Choose between single-phase for smaller setups like retail stores or three-phase for industrial plants with continuous high power needs.
- NEC requirements: Ensure compliance with National Electrical Code standards, especially considering safety systems that might be operational during an outage.
USING A POWER CALCULATOR FOR GENERATORS
Our tool helps you:
- Convert kVA to kW and vice versa
- Convert kW to horsepower
- Calculate amperes and required kVA for a three-phase setup
After conversions, input your data into our commercial generator sizing calculator, select the phase, and enter the volts, amperes, and power factor needed. The calculator will then display the required kW to keep your operations running during outages.