Backup Power When the Grid Goes Down
Commercial generator installation in Missoula for continuous operation during outages and peak winter demand
Edison Electric installs, maintains, and repairs commercial generators in Missoula when your business depends on uninterrupted power for refrigeration, data systems, security, or customer operations. You call for installation when moving into a new building, when your facility expands and existing power capacity no longer covers critical loads, or when winter storms and grid strain make outages a recurring concern. The work involves sizing the generator to your building's electrical load, installing a concrete pad or mounting system, running fuel lines, connecting the transfer switch, and programming the controller to start automatically when utility power drops.
Commercial generators provide power to your entire facility or to specific circuits you designate as critical, such as lighting, HVAC controls, walk-in coolers, or network equipment. Standby units run on natural gas or propane and start within seconds of detecting an outage. Missoula's cold winter temperatures require battery warmers and block heaters to ensure reliable starting, and the altitude affects engine performance, so generators are derated slightly when installed at this elevation.
If your facility has experienced downtime during past outages or if you need backup power before the next winter season, contact Edison Electric to schedule a load assessment and site evaluation.
Sizing, Fuel, and Transfer Switch Integration
The electrician undertakes a thorough calculation of your total electrical load by carefully reviewing panel schedules, measuring the startup currents for various motors and compressors, and identifying which circuits must stay energized during a power outage. This meticulous approach ensures that the generator is properly sized to handle both running watts and surge watts. Additionally, the transfer switch is programmed with sophisticated features to prevent backfeeding into utility lines, ensuring both safety and compliance with regulations. For those using natural gas generators, these systems are connected directly to your building's gas meter, while propane units necessitate a tank that is appropriately sized for at least 24 hours of continuous operation.
Once Edison Electric completes the installation, your building will seamlessly remain operational during outages, with lights, essential equipment, and climate control systems running as if nothing has changed. The transfer switch continuously monitors utility voltage and automatically starts the generator when it detects any drop in power; it then skillfully switches back to grid power once service is restored, ensuring minimal interruption. During weekly self-tests, which are an important part of the maintenance routine, you’ll notice the generator running briefly. These tests are crucial as they keep the engine lubricated and the battery charged, thus prolonging the life of your generator.
Routine maintenance includes essential tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, load bank testing, and controller diagnostics, typically performed twice a year to ensure optimal performance. If repairs are needed, they may involve the replacement of voltage regulators, starters, or fuel solenoids. Even in emergencies, it is always best to call Edison Electric first to avoid any potential damage caused by improper startup or shutdown procedures. It’s important to note that while Edison Electric provides extensive service, it does not include fuel delivery, propane tank installation, or any necessary structural reinforcement for rooftop mounting, which are separate considerations that need to be addressed for a comprehensive solution.
What to Know Before Installation
Business owners typically ask about permitting, noise levels, startup time, and how often the generator requires servicing.
How long does commercial generator installation take?
Installation for a mid-sized standby unit with a transfer switch typically takes two to three days, including site prep, electrical connections, and startup testing.
Do commercial generators require permits in Missoula?
Yes, installation requires an electrical permit and often a building permit for the concrete pad or structural mounting, along with inspection by the local authority.
How loud is a commercial generator during operation?
Most standby generators produce 65 to 75 decibels at a distance of 20 feet, similar to a running air conditioner or commercial refrigeration unit.
What maintenance schedule should I follow?
Generators should be serviced every six months or after 200 hours of runtime, whichever comes first, with oil changes, filter checks, and load testing included.
Can a generator power my entire building?
Yes, if it's sized correctly, but many businesses choose to power only critical circuits to reduce generator size, fuel consumption, and installation cost.
If you're ready to protect your operations from outages or need maintenance on an existing unit, Edison Electric can evaluate your facility and provide options for installation or repair based on your load requirements and site conditions.
