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Electrical Inspections Contains discussions about electrical systems. This includes receptacles, panels, wiring, etc.

 
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  #1  
Old 1/8/09, 11:10 AM
Steve A. Rinner Steve A. Rinner is offline
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Cool Testing back up generators

Is there any way to test back up generators?

I have a client that wants me to verify if the sump pump is conected to the generator should the power go out. Is this possible?

Thanks.
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  #2  
Old 1/8/09, 11:21 AM
Wayne B. Wilson's Avatar
Wayne B. Wilson Wayne B. Wilson is offline
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Default Re: Testing back up generators

If it is a automatic start just kill the main power
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Old 1/8/09, 11:25 AM
Steve A. Rinner Steve A. Rinner is offline
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Default Re: Testing back up generators

They do not monitor power coming in from the power company and start when none is detected? This was my impression.
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Old 1/8/09, 1:28 PM
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Patrick J. Cloninger Patrick J. Cloninger is offline
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Default Re: Testing back up generators

It depends on which type it is. Most will automatically start once it detects a loss of power from the power company and then shut it's self off once power is restored. Many of the newer generators will also run automatic tests weekly or monthly. I'm sure there is a way to test them, but without knowing what type or which one I can't say.

(Picture of a recent inspection with one)

What type of generator is it, natural gas?
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testing-back-up-generators-cutshaw-017.jpg   testing-back-up-generators-cutshaw-018.jpg  



Patrick J. Cloninger



Serving Knoxville and surrounding counties
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Old 1/8/09, 2:00 PM
Wayne B. Wilson's Avatar
Wayne B. Wilson Wayne B. Wilson is offline
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Default Re: Testing back up generators

Quote:
Originally Posted by srinner View Post
They do not monitor power coming in from the power company and start when none is detected? This was my impression.
Most of the time all you have to do is Kill the main breaker and stand by will come on . If not there is a test button on the unit .but swome of these only run the unit and o not transfer power. Try the main first.
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Old 1/8/09, 2:42 PM
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rmaday rmaday is offline
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Default Re: Testing back up generators

As an inspector, I don't turn on any breakers that are off, and I certainly don't turn off any breakers that are on.
JMO

Good question, though.
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Old 1/8/09, 8:51 PM
wsiegel wsiegel is offline
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Default Re: Testing back up generators

And how do you know that they wired the back up generator correctly to begin with. This is beyond the scope of an inspection. I would defer to a licensed electrician to test.
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Old 1/8/09, 9:47 PM
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Joe Funderburk, CMI Joe Funderburk, CMI is offline
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Default Re: Testing back up generators

Part of my agreement:

INSPECTION DOES NOT INCLUDE – Negotiating issues with the builder/owner/contractor; sewer lines and/or onsite waste disposal systems; water softeners; shower pans, over-flow drains, low voltage electrical systems; backup generators, data and communications systems or other ancillary wiring that is not part of the primary electrical distribution system



“The things that will destroy America are peace at any price,
prosperity at any cost, safety first instead of duty first,
the love of soft living, and the get-rich-quick theory of life.”
Theodore Roosevelt


Joe Funderburk, CMI
Alpha & Omega Home Inspections, LLC
Inspecting Upstate SC & Charlotte Metro, NC
NACHI ID: NACHI05120170
www.aohomeinspection.com


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