Determining the size of the generator you need depends on several factors:

1. Power Requirements: Calculate the total power consumption of the appliances, equipment, and systems you want to power with the generator. Make a list of all the electrical loads, including their wattages or amps, and add them up to determine the total power requirement.

2. Starting vs. Running Power: Consider whether any of your appliances or equipment require higher power during startup compared to their running power. Some appliances, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, may have significantly higher starting wattages.

3. Load Type: Determine whether your loads are resistive (e.g., lights, heaters) or inductive (e.g., motors, compressors). Inductive loads typically require more power during startup.

4. Sizing Margin: It’s recommended to add a margin of safety or oversizing to your generator to accommodate for potential future additions to your electrical load and to ensure the generator can handle unexpected surges in power demand.

5. Generator Type: Consider whether you need a standby generator to power your entire house/business during outages or a portable generator for specific appliances or tasks.

6. Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about sizing your generator, consult with a qualified electrician or generator specialist who can assess your needs and recommend an appropriately sized generator for your specific requirements.

Once you have determined your total power requirements and other relevant factors, you can select a generator with a capacity (rated in kilowatts or kVA) that meets or exceeds your calculated power needs. It’s essential to choose a generator that can comfortably handle your peak power demands while providing reliable and efficient operation.

Yes

You only need a licensed electrician for a standby generator, and they should furnish you with a valid electrical certificate of compliance. To confirm an electrician’s registration, individuals can reach out to their local Electrical Contracting Board of South Africa for verification of these credentials.

An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is a device designed to automatically shift power supply from its primary source to a backup source upon detecting a failure or outage in the primary source.

Depending on its size, a diesel generator is typically expected to be 10 to 20 times cheaper than a complete solar power system. Nevertheless, factors such as increasing fuel expenses and future maintenance needs must also be considered when evaluating costs. Another factor to take in consideration is space available for solar vs generators.

Contact us via out Contact page or email dennis@pinnacleholding.co.za with the make and model of your generator  and we will get back to you.

Pinnacle Power have 3 options for powering homes.

6.5kVA Standby Petrol Generator

6.5kVA Standby Silent Diesel Generator

16kVA Standby Silent Diesel Generator

KVA stands for kilovolt-amperes, and KW stands for kilowatts. Both are units of electrical power, but they represent slightly different aspects of it:

1. KVA (Kilovolt-Amperes): KVA is a measure of apparent power in an electrical circuit. It takes into account both real power (KW) and reactive power (KVAr). Apparent power is the combination of real power (the power consumed or generated by a device) and reactive power (the power required to establish and maintain electric and magnetic fields in devices like motors and transformers). KVA is important in determining the capacity requirements for devices like transformers, generators, and UPS systems.

2. KW (Kilowatts): KW is a measure of real power, which is the actual power used to perform work or generate heat in an electrical circuit. It represents the rate at which energy is consumed or produced. KW is the most commonly used unit to measure power consumption or generation in most electrical devices and systems.

In summary, KVA includes both real and reactive power, while KW specifically refers to real power only.

The lifespan of a diesel generator can vary depending on several factors including:

1. Quality of Construction: High-quality generators tend to have longer lifespans compared to lower-quality ones.

2. Maintenance: Regular and proper maintenance significantly impacts the lifespan of a diesel generator. This includes routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, and overall care as per manufacturer recommendations.

3. Usage: The frequency and duration of usage can affect how long a diesel generator lasts. Generators used heavily or subjected to continuous operation may wear out faster than those used intermittently.

4. Environmental Conditions: Operating conditions such as temperature, humidity, dust, and exposure to harsh elements can influence the longevity of a diesel generator.

5. Load Characteristics: Diesel generators operating under heavy loads consistently may experience more wear and tear compared to those operating under lighter loads.

With proper maintenance and under normal operating conditions, diesel generators can last anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 hours or more. However, this is a general estimate and actual lifespan can vary based on the factors mentioned above. Regular inspections by qualified technicians can help assess the condition of the generator and determine any necessary repairs or maintenance to extend its lifespan.

Diesel generators can produce noise during operation, but their loudness depends on factors such as size, design, enclosure, distance from people, operating conditions, and adherence to regulations. Larger generators typically produce more noise, but soundproof enclosures and muffler systems can help mitigate it. Distance from the generator and adherence to noise regulations also affect perceived noise levels. Overall, while diesel generators can be noisy, advancements in technology and proper installation can significantly reduce noise disturbances.

Yes Pinnacle Power provides Generators and solar systems.

Solar

The frequency of servicing your generator depends on several factors:

1. Manufacturer Recommendations: Follow the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer in the generator’s user manual. This typically includes intervals for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections.

2. Usage: Generators that are used frequently or subjected to heavy loads may require more frequent servicing compared to those used intermittently or under lighter loads.

3. Environmental Conditions: Operating in harsh environments with high temperatures, humidity, dust, or other contaminants may necessitate more frequent servicing to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

4. Regulatory Requirements: Some industries or regions may have specific regulations or guidelines regarding generator maintenance intervals that you need to adhere to.

In general, diesel generators typically require servicing at least once or twice a year for routine maintenance tasks. However, it’s essential to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and consider factors such as usage and operating conditions to determine the appropriate servicing frequency for your specific generator. Additionally, regular inspections by qualified technicians can help identify any issues early and ensure the generator remains in good working condition.