​All steps taken during the Semi-Annual or Quarterly Preventative Maintenance will also take place during the the Annual Preventative Maintenance.  In addition to those inspections, our expert technicians will change the engine oil and filter and replace the air filter and fuel filters, as well.   All oil will be disposed of in a way to meet environmental standards.

OEMs provide detailed standby generator maintenance guidelines that will be followed to provide the longest most reliable service life possible for their respective equipment. General guidelines for specific applications also can be found in several recognized standards. This standard also contains a suggested maintenance schedule which, if followed, will meet minimum maintenance requirements for Level 1 and Level 2 emergency standby power systems.

A more thorough list of services performed during the Preventative Maintenances can be found in the Statement of Work documents attached below.

A generator load bank test involves an assessment of a generator set by applying an artificial power load to the back-up power system bringing the engine to an appropriate operating temperature and pressure level.  Because many generators do not regularly operate at their full kW rating, it's especially important that you verify your generator can actually produce the highest possible horsepower that may be required - while at the same time maintaining adequate temperature and pressure levels that will allow it to run as long as necessary.  This allows verification that all primary components of the generator set are in proper working condition. This is especially important for standby and emergency generator sets that do not run very often and/or may not be exposed to carrying heavy loads on a frequent basis.  The general rule is - if your generator is not exposed to higher than 30% of its rated kW load then you should be considering a load test.  ​

​Furthermore, when a diesel engine powered generator is not used frequently or only run on light loads, it can be prone to experiencing unburned fuel and soot buildup in the exhaust system. This is called 'wet-stacking.'  When wet-stacking occurs, the generator set is likely to perform poorly, to endure damage, can become a fire hazard, and can even lead to complete failure. During a load bank test, the generator is allowed to run at full power and full temperature. This will cause any wet-stacking to burn off.   This is yet another reason Load Bank Testing is so important for your generator set.

A load bank test ensures that your generator will run properly when it’s needed so that you can have peace of mind during an emergency situation. 

When a load bank test is implemented, an artificial load is placed on the generator that mimics the load level your company places on your power system today.  The test is performed at percentages of your current load to access how the system will perform at each level.  These levels will be properly set based on our partnership with the customer.  

The test is timed and we gradually increase the kW load in specific increments. Each time the kW load is increased, the test measures and records critical engine parameters, the generator's ability to handle the boost, and its ability to continue functioning at the highest possible level for a sustained period of time. The equipment needed to complete the test includes a load bank (machine with kW rated sizes and battery like cables).

​Sluder Emergency Power Services provides full end-to-end Resistive/Reactive Load Bank Testing from coordination and scheduling of the test with all those involved at your company, planning the load levels to be tested, the order of the load bank equipment, delivery and set-up of the equipment, full on-site execution and monitoring of the test by one of our expert technicians, pick up and removal of testing equipment, and clean-up of the site back to its original condition.  Safety of your staff and our employees is of the utmost importance and we go above and beyond to ensure safety for everyone involved during testing.

Once the test is completed, the client will be provided with a detailed report showing how the equipment performed at each testing level and will outline any recommended changes or issues that arose during testing.  Upon approval by the client, Sluder Emergency Power Services will perform all necessary repairs to ensure your system is ready when you need it most.

Before you replace your engine, you should consider the economics of a re-build. With tier requirements and EPA standards, this may be a more cost effective alternative. From the simple to the complex, Sluder Emergency Power Services provides full on-site engine re-builds. Our team of advanced level technicians have experience in a wide range of engine manufacturers and sizes. From the rigging to the machining and complex overhaul requirements we can provide the parts and expertise required to get your engine back to top condition.  Call our team and discuss the economics of this decision and make the right choice for your emergency power system.

The Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) is a critical component of your emergency backup system. The ATS detects when utility power is interrupted, and signals the generator to start. Once the generator reaches operating speed, typically within 7-10 seconds, the ATS transfers the building load to the generator. Once utility power is restored, the ATS re-transfers the building load back to utility power and initiates the generator cool-down and shut-off process. Without proper function of the ATS, your emergency backup power system may not operate when needed.

A comprehensive Preventative Maintenance program is the best insurance your ATS will perform when needed.  NFPA calls for periodic scheduled inspection and testing, in addition to annual preventative maintenance. All maintenance services include cleaning the ATS to eliminate dirt and dust, and testing and lubrication of all moving parts. Annual maintenance involves disassembly of the mechanical side of the ATS to inspect for evidence of overheating or damage. Contacts and arc chutes may require replacement if pitted or cracked. Sluder Emergency Power Services Preventative Maintenance protocol for ATS meets all NFPA requirements and ensures your ATS is in proper working order when you need it.