Tag: backup power

Power Outage Tips for Small Businesses

September 16, 2020

Backup Power

In Louisiana, we all know that power outages are very likely because of the frequent hurricanes that take place along our coasts and shorelines. According to Agility Recovery, 70 percent of businesses or organizations will face a power outage within the next 12 months.

In today’s world, (almost) everything is reliant on electricity and many small businesses are unable to continue operating without power. If you own a business in Louisiana, you should be aware of the certain challenges your business is likely to face. Although small businesses should have a power-outage preparedness strategy in case of a power outage, we’ve put together a few tips to consider if a power outage threatens the continuity of your business.

Call Utility & Report The Power Outage

Immediately after you notice there is an outage, your utility needs to know when and where it occurred. Since the utility company owns and operates the wires that bring electricity into your business, this means they are the first people you should contact to report a power outage in your area. While a severe storm or event with widespread power interruption should be recognized on the utility provider’s monitoring system, we still advise you to report outages. 

If you think you or your employees are in danger, call 911.

Use Backup Power

If your business loses power, make sure you use a standby or backup power sources for emergency power. Always read and follow all manufacturer operating instructions. Also note that you should only use these generators in well-ventilated areas. That’s because generators can be a major cause of fatal carbon monoxide poisoning, which can cause loss of consciousness and even death. 

If your business is interested in getting a generator professionally installed, learn more about our generators and power solutions.

Equipment Safety 101

In the event of a power outage, it is important to unplug or turn off all electrical equipment, such as computers and televisions to prevent damage from electrical surges or spikes when power is eventually restored. Your circuits could overload when power returns if all your electrical items are on. We recommend that you leave one light on to indicate that power is back on.

GAGE provides standby power solutions for your home or business. For more information on our generators and general power services, visit here today or give us a call at 225.753.4243.

The Difference Between Standby and Portable Generators

August 20, 2020

Standby Generators and Portable Generators

As hurricane season makes its way, it’s important that we take the proper precautions to protect our homes and businesses from power outages. At Gage, we offer the latest technology that ensures power to keep things running. 

Whether you’re a recent customer or a returning one, Gage understands that buying a generator is an investment; and we want to guarantee your highest satisfaction if you intend to purchase one of our products.

How Do Generators Work?

Generators conduct electricity by converting mechanical or chemical energy into electrical energy. This process requires the generator to harness kinetic energy (motion) and translate it into electrical energy by conducting electrons from its external source through its electrical circuit. You should never run your generator indoors, same as your vehicle, the engine exhaust will create a poisonous atmosphere of carbon monoxide. There are two types of generators: portable generators and standby generators.

Portable Generators

Although these models are cheaper than your standard standby generator, they have a higher potential to be hazardous. It is best to store them away carefully when not in use because natural elements will cause deterioration. In the event of a power outage, portable models require manual setup.

While in use, these models need to be secured with its designated weather-cover or a free-standing canopy; when contacted with water, these generators can cause electrical shocks or fires. Because of high volumes of carbon monoxide, it’s vital that you position your model at least 20 feet away from your house.

Most portable generators don’t produce enough power for an entire house, using electronics that require a high voltage could induce fried circuits. However, when they are properly connected to a circuit breaker with a transfer switch, they can almost power a house as much as a standby generator. The downside is that they require sizable amounts of gasoline mixed with fuel stabilizer during a lengthy power outage.

Standby Generators (Stationary Generators)

A technician will permanently install a standby generator with an insulated, weatherproof makeup that muffles undesirable noise and withstands any storm without covering. They eliminate the hassle of manual installation and startup. 

One of the major benefits of these models is that they’re self-starting immediately after a power outage. And they’re much less likely to fry any electronics. They can also power your entire house or building, and because they run on natural gas or propane, they can conduct power for days or weeks on a full tank. Mostly, standby generators are risk-free and arguably worth the price. 

Gage has the power to be your next solution. In helping to decide which generator would serve you best, we are here to assist you with choosing the right one. We want to help you with any questions or concerns that you may have.

For more information on generator maintenance or to find out about purchase and installation contact Gage today: https://www.gagetelephone.com/product/power/. 

Five Tips to Ensure Your Business is Protected Through a Power Outage

June 16, 2020

Tips During Power Outage

For some companies, uninterrupted electricity is critical to their ability to serve their customers. Even more so now for organizations like water plants, data centers, hospitals, greenhouses and any facility producing personal protective equipment (PPE’s) due to the pandemic. 

At Gage, we offer backup generators and power systems that protect these business operations that are vital to our daily lives. We have five practical maintenance tips for the performance of these essential power systems – these tips are to be done in addition to any regularly scheduled maintenance or upkeep.

Regular Engine Exercise 

Start your engine once a month and let it run for a minimum of 30 minutes loaded to no less than one-third of the nameplate rating. This is helpful for using the fuel before it deteriorates, preventing oxidation of electrical contacts and for keeping the engine parts lubricated. Since unburned fuel tends to accumulate in the exhaust system, avoid periods of no-load operation. Consider conducting a test with your facility’s load by simulating a power outage, or alternatively use a load bank during testing.

Fuel Levels and Quality

First, to ensure you have enough fuel to operate as needed, check the main and day tank fuel levels. Tighten clamps as needed and check for leaks, cracks or loose connections. As the fuel level within the day tank drops, the day tank float switch ensures the day tank is getting fueled from the main tank. Check to be sure this is working properly. If needed, drain any water or sediments from the fuel system. Diesel fuel is at risk of contamination when stored; exercising the generator set regularly is how you can prevent this risk. You can also consider fuel polishing and tank cleaning if necessary to ensure fuel quality has not degraded significantly.

Sufficiently Charged Batteries

One of the most common causes of power system failure is weak or undercharged starting batteries. Make sure the terminal connections are tight and clear of corrosion. You can clean corrosion at the terminals with a solution of water and baking soda. Finally, check the specific gravity and the electrolyte level. Charge the battery if the specific battery reading is below 1.215. If the electrolyte levels are low, fill the battery cells with distilled water. Replace the battery every three years.

Transfer Equipment Inspection

Generally, there is limited maintenance required on transfer switch equipment. First, the control switches need to be in the proper (AUTOMATIC) position and all indication lamps should be in proper working order. Circuit breakers and fuses should be free of corrosion or dirt. Be sure to test the transfer switches at least once a month especially if your facility is required to be NFPA 110 compliant.

Visual Inspections Conducted Daily

Taking a regular walk around your power system on a daily basis will help in preventing issues that could lead to property damage, personal injury or loss of life. This is a guide on what to check at a minimum:

  • Check that coolant and oil levels are satisfactory
  • Check for leakages, loose or broken parts or debris
  • Check the engine coolant heater operation. The jacket water heaters may not be working properly if the engine block is not warm to the touch. This would make the engine starting a challenge.
  • Make sure nothing is stored on top or around the generator. The area around the generator needs to stay clear.
  • The automatic transfer switches and generator switch need to stay locked.

 

For more information on generator maintenance or to find out about purchase and installation contact Gage today: https://www.gagetelephone.com/product/power/.

Stay Better Connected With GAGE

May 16, 2019

Gage Video

Since 1980, GAGE has designed, implemented and serviced business communication systems ranging in size from a few phones to hundreds of interconnected devices. Through the years, our service lines have also grown to include managed IT, cabling, and standby backup power. As a family-owned business, our diversified culture and connection to each other have laid the foundation to better connect with our customers and establishing true relationships throughout the years. We know that when you’re family in Louisiana, you stay connected – and that’s why GAGE is truly in the business of connectivity.

 

Customized Approach

Cloud-based, cutting-edge technology is nothing without the people behind it. Being better-connected starts with service before and after you become a GAGE customer. Easy to personalize and use, our secure GAGE Cloud Voice platform will connect everyone in your business, creating an efficient and effective work environment. With no system to install, it’s easy to add seats or functionality on-demand. We also provide a complete suite of managed IT Services, catching and fixing even the smallest problems before they turn into big ones. No matter your needs, we always take a customized approach to build a tailored solution for your company. At GAGE, we take pride in our customer relationships. Just because business technology constantly changes, it doesn’t mean relationships have to change too.

 

Service You Can Rely On

As a GAGE customer, you’ll enjoy a level of service beyond your expectations and a personal, responsive relationship with real people. We value your time, money and trust, which is why we don’t let our customers down. When it is all said and done, we want our solutions to allow you to focus on what really matters: running and growing your business.

 

Better Connected

GAGE is a Louisiana-based company, and we know the importance of being connected to the community that has supported us throughout the years. We are learning and growing every day from our community and culture. Being local means more than having a home office, though – it’s about giving back to your home. Since our company’s opening in 1980, we have poured our hearts into Family, Service, and Community. It’s the way we started, the way we’ve grown, and it’s the way we’ve become Better Connected.

 

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With our customized solutions, valued client relationships, and family culture, GAGE is always available to help you find the best communication solution for you and your business. To learn more about our services, read about our products & services or contact us today!