Generators, the ideal piece of equipment that you need should your power supply fail, but how do you know the generator that you have is able to handle the job? That’s where load bank testing comes in, and we’ve got our experts to explain everything you need to know about load bank testing for generators and the benefits! Load bank tests ensure that your generator is working to its optimal performance under the load it would be required to carry should your power supply fail. However, is also an essential part of generator maintenance and is seen as a preventative measure to help you avoid future breakdowns and damages.

So what is a load bank test?

In a nutshell, a load bank test is a test or series of tests on your backup power supply. If you think simply powering up the generator and seeing if it works is enough, you are wrong, as this method will not tell you if your generator is capable of taking on a full load. The last thing you want as a business is to encounter a power outage and have a standby power supply that isn’t capable of taking the load. Effective and efficient load bank testing for generators ensures that your emergency power supply won’t falter under pressure.

How is load bank testing done and how are results reported?

For an effective test, load banks should be suitably rated cables that enable the load bank to be positioned more than twenty metres away from the uninterruptible power supply (UPS). It should be noted that load banks compromise the heating elements and fans for cooling so allowances should be made for heat dissipation and noise attenuation during the load bank test. With this in mind, you should make sure that the tests are not carried out near sensitive alarms, sprinkler systems or where people are working.

During the testing process, measurements are taken. These measurements are able to determine the level and quality of the battery and system performance. When a load test is carried out, the results will show problems with the generator and the UPS, with remedial actions advised.

What does a load bank test indicate?

A load bank test will indicate whether the generator and the UPS are performing as they should be. In the case of a standby generator a load bank test will show:

  • The engine’s ability to provide the required power
  • The alternator’s ability to provide the required voltage stability
  • Stable frequency
  • The efficiency of the control systems under a variety of loads
  • The overall performance of the whole system
  • Oil and fuel levels

A load bank test will determine any work that needs to be carried out on the generator, as well as help to remove debris from the pistons, engine castings and exhausts. Load bank testing is an essential part of the maintenance of generators.

How much does load bank testing cost?

The cost will vary, for a free no-obligation quote get in touch with a member of the Bellwood Rewinds team today. It is worth noting that the cost of load bank testing includes the hire of the equipment, labour, and the temporary cable provision and connection. While the routine maintenance of a generator should be completed regularly, and while load bank testing is an essential part of that maintenance any tests should be carried out sensibly, we recommend that tests are completed outside of normal working hours.

The benefits of load bank testing

The main benefit of load bank testing is that you have complete peace of mind that your generator is working as it should be. You can rest assured that you have a fully operational backup power supply, withstanding the required load until your main power supply is reconnected. With the removal of carbon deposits from the exhaust and engine castings, you will also get a smoother, cleaner and generally more reliable generator.

How can Bellwood Rewinds help?

Here at Bellwood Rewinds, we have our own load banks that we can connect to your backup power supply and UPS system to ensure it is operating as it should be. We ensure the generator is in full working order, including the batteries and engines, making sure the optimal performance is achievable. Load bank testing from Bellwood includes:

  • Site survey, delivery and positioning of the load bank
  • Site logistics
  • The testing of the generator and power source
  • Disconnection and removal of the load bank
  • Detailed report and results