YorPower FAQ’s
New UK Generator emissions standards can be found here :
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pUbns/priced/hsg187.pdf
https://www.dieselnet.com/standards/eu/nonroad.php
All YorPower house-built and brands sold through YorPower are complaint with current UK emissions standards. Please ask for further details if you are enquiring from abroad and need more specific advice on how we can meet your country’s regulations.
Fuel consumption
All YorPower diesel generator sets are built to exacting standards with unique designs that make them all the more functional and efficient. Each YorPower genset has a bunded fuel tank which allows for twice the capacity of fuel to be held. Advantages of these bunded fuel tanks include:
- Staying compliant
- Protecting the environment
- Future-proofing your fuel
- Avoiding theft
- Long-term savings
- Extra safety features
- Flexibility
For a list of the benefits of a bunded fuel tank, click the following link https://www.fueltek.co.uk/7-benefits-of-bunded-fuel-tanks/
Which genset engine is best? / why is diesel better?
Two of the key benefits of a diesel generator are firstly, the cost efficiency and secondly, the reliability of these sets. Diesel generators are significantly quieter and cost far less (30-50% less) to maintain than petrol generators as well as being longer lasting. Not only are they cheaper, diesel generators can run up to 3 times as long as a petrol generator. Furthermore, diesel generators have a lower operating temperature. What does this mean? Again, this means that diesel generators last longer than petrol. Additionally, diesel means less downtime as there is no need for an electrical ignition system.
Diesel engines are used in the majority of industries – construction, agriculture, small businesses, list etc. Diesel generators power boats, data centres, hospitals, tele-communications companies, the list is exhaustive. Robust and convenient, as well as portable – particularly for power outages – diesel generators are the most flexible source of electrical power in existence.
The demand for diesel generators is high due to applications in commercial. Industrial and maritime applications. Powering anything from a small van to large-scale factories, diesel generators can be used as primary or standby as well as portable power supplies.
Conclude- why is diesel the better choice ? wide spread market – need to keep costs down, need to keep efficiency up (time is money) as well as keeping emissions down.
What voltage should I use ?
For a list of common uses and the required voltage, please refer to the following article, taken from (blah)
https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/safety-around-the-home/home-appliances-ratings/
Do I need 3 phase or single phase?
Single phase and 3-phase provide the same type of power but are very different in terms of purpose. Single phase generators produce a single, continuously alternating voltage allowing for a variable voltage. The varying waves produced cause the power level to drop, which is not an issue for smaller, primarily residential applications. Three phase generators function quite differently in that the waves of current remain constant. The AC waves of power operate in a sequence which prevents the dips that occur with single phase generators – this makes a 3-phase generator much more powerful.
The application determines the type of generator you will require. For smaller operations to power small equipment, choose single phase generators – they operate anywhere from 120-140 volts. To power anything larger than a house i.e. commercial business, 3-phase is the more suitable option. The typical voltage of three-phase generators is approximately 480 volts. Three-phase generators are typically used to power larger groups of equipment, on construction sites, in data centres etc.
Three-phase generators are more expensive than single-phase and take some looking after, this is why YorPower offer an 18 month warranty and offer installation and maintenance services. The efficiency and reliability of these generators make them worth the extra investment. YorPower carry both single and three-phase and a member of our sales team will help you to determine which suits your needs.
What is the difference between kVA and Kw?
In simple terms, kVA represents the apparent power i.e. how much power is used in a system. kW is the actual power i. e. the amount of power that is converted to useful output power, also known as “working power.”
What type of fuel for my generator?
There are a number of advantages and disadvantages for each type of fuel used in diesel generators.
Diesel: Diesel is the standards fuel type for generators, easily stored and efficient – diesel generators are arguably the most reliable and good standby power solutions as they have a fast start up time. The disadvantage of diesel generators is that they do produce slightly higher emissions however, YorPower ensure that EPA standards are met.
Natural Gas: Slightly cleaner than diesel, natural gas is also a slightly cheaper alternative to diesel. Natural gas generators, however, do not allow for fuel storage on-site. Another disadvantage if the delayed start time of natural gas generators which can cause unwanted interruptions.
Bi-fuel: Units that run on two types of fuel, providing maximum flexibility. The combination of diesel and natural gas makes it easier to meet emissions standards. On the other hand, dual fuel generators are not standard and are less accessible due to them not being a standard build amongst known reliable brands.
If you are unsure on which fuel type is best, YorPower sales team are here to offer you expert advice and guide you to the most suitable unit for you.
The most common causes of generator failures
When diesel generators are neglected, the consequences can be very serious and costly. YorPower provide maintenance services top ensure everything runs smoothly and that you are getting value for your money. Generators should be serviced at least twice a year – YorPower have an 24 hour on-call service team all over the UK.
Common Causes of Generator Failure
- Dry, cracking and otherwise bad belts
- Dead Batteries
- Block heater wear and tear
- Low coolant, no coolant or lack of oil which causes overheating, over crank, cracked heads, broken pistons, catastrophic engine failure
- Lack of fuel, bad fuel, sludge in the fuel tank or lines
- Burnt components on the boards, electrical components, stepper motors, transfer coils, ice cube relays
- Damages caused by weather and pests
All of these issues can be prevented by implementing a regular maintenance plan for your backup power systems. Generators should be maintained and serviced regularly, at least twice a year. However, depending on the make, model, and purpose, maintenance may need to be performed more often than that. Just a few of the items that should be checked when carrying out scheduled maintenance are:
…. Minimizing the need for repairs, increasing reliability, and reducing long term costs. For more information or to request a proposal for a generator maintenance program for your business, contact us today!