Blog posts tagged with 'buy used generators in the UK'

It is sad to say it, but we live in an age where electrical blackouts are becoming more common. While some 60% of power failures are the result of a violent storm, it is also the case that one third of them (34%) are caused by faulty equipment as a result of the fact that the grid is aging and is becoming overloaded.

One of the reasons for this is that the population of this country is increasing at an almost alarming rate. Net immigration last year – both legal and illegal – came to a record high of 906,000. That is close to one million more people who all use electricity in the same way that the rest of us do. So, the simple fact is that power outages are going to become more and more common.

Turn Off Appliances

If your power goes down, whether at work or at home, one of the first things to do is to turn off all appliances / computers. The reason for this is that when the power comes back on it can result in an electrical surge which can then cause damage to anything which is still switched on. It is OK to leave a light on as, apart from anything else, it will let you know when the power has reconnected.

It is well worthwhile checking with neighbouring businesses if their power has gone down too, because if not, the fault is within your own building or its’ wiring or appliances.

It is also a good idea to call 105, which is a free service that puts you in touch with your local supplier. You can gain information about the outage and when the power is expected to return.

For total peace of mind, the ultimate answer is to have your own standby generator which can automatically switch on when the power goes down and you need emergency power, thus saving you all the hassle. These are available in different wattages, so you can buy one that is the correct size for the power that you need. Depending upon your power requirements, a new generator can be fairly expensive.

However, you can also buy used generators in the UK. At Blades Power Generation, we always have some of these available. This is because many businesses that use generators are growing and then begin to need more power. So, they trade in their old generators with us. When you buy used generators in the UK from us, it can save you a considerable amount of money. You will also have the peace of mind that when you need emergency power, it is right there ready and waiting.

Standby engine generators, as the name suggests, are vital for emergencies. They are kept as backups to generate power during outages. Now, swift activation of standby engine generators is crucial when outages persist for a longer period of time. Specific issues such as failure to start, generator not connecting due to switchgear malfunction, or operational failure post-connection may sometimes delay the activation of the generator. By using a branded generator changeover switchgear, you can eliminate these problems.

Common Generator Problems and the Ways to Address Them

Problem 1: The generator engine failed to start

Solution: Confirm the engine and switchgear controls are in automatic mode. Regularly check battery health and charger power. Be cautious of ATS not detecting power failure, hindering engine start. Periodic ATS tests, briefly cutting normal power, ensuring prompt engine response, and verifying ATS functionality during utility outages.

Problem 2: Engine running but failing to meet critical load

Solution: During routine maintenance, technicians must validate the correct switchgear neutral switch timing setpoint. Regular checks should ensure the engine main breaker is closed. Adjust the breaker setting to avoid unnecessary trips under load. Conduct frequent transfer tests initiated manually at the ATS without opening circuit breakers to prevent failure modes. The common failure modes are:

•      The ATS does not acknowledge acceptable generator power
•      ATS jamming or failing to transfer
•      And, contacts fail under load post-transfer

This proactive approach ensures the reliability of the generator switchgear and minimises potential operational failures.

Problem 3: The engine carries the load smoothly but fails before the return of utility power

Solution: Prevent fuel-related issues by routinely inspecting pumps and filters for contamination. Run the generator for extended periods to confirm prolonged performance and avert these potential failure modes.

•      Engine overheating
•      Component failures
•      Incompatibility issues with load, such as voltage regulator or speed governor issues

Problem 4: The engine still runs after stable utility power returns

Solution: Verify switchgear setpoints for potential manual transfer requirements. Ensure correct adjustment of the ATS-in-phase monitor and appropriate engine frequency for seamless in-phase monitoring and closed-transition transfer.

Avoid generator issues with the best switchgears

Selecting the right generator changeover switchgear is critical for unhindered power transitions during power cuts and supply outages. The choice influences the reliability of backup power systems by ensuring timely and automatic shifts between utility and generator power. Well-designed switchgear minimises the risk of failure modes, such as failure to recognise utility power return or jams during transfer. Find the best switch gears with Blades Power Generation today!

Since the constant power supply is a staple necessity in present times, you must always be prepared for power outages. Using generators in residential and commercial spaces ensures that you have a secondary source of power for emergencies. Just like you, many people cannot decide if they should buy used generators in the UK. We will answer that for you.

Buying a used generator is one of the wisest choices you can make. Why? The following benefits of used generators will elaborate more. 

Easy on the pocket

One of the key benefits of buying used generators in the UK is that they are inexpensive and do not burn a hole in your pocket. If you are low on budget but need a generator for your home or office, buy a pre-owned generator.

No initial depreciation

Generators usually have a depreciation of 40% in the first 12 months. But if you buy a used generator, a large part of the depreciation is mitigated. Moreover, if you want to sell it off later, you will get more back from it.

Immediate availability

Sometimes when demand spikes, there is a long waiting time between placing the order and order fulfilment. However, used generators are readily available, and you do not have to wait too long to get the generator. If you urgently need a generator, this can be a key selling point.

Less paperwork

Buying a new generator includes plenty of paperwork. But it is absent in the case of a used generator. However, a genuine seller offers a warranty for pre-owned generators too. Before signing such documents, you must read the paperwork and review the fine print.

Reduced insurance cost

New generators have a high cost of insurance, just like a new car. However, for a second-hand generator, insurance charges will be less. Usually, insurance companies charge insurance on the base cost. Here the initial price and cost of replacement are both low.

Buy Used Generators in the UK With Blades Power Generation:

We are your one-stop destination for finding the best backup power sources and services. We offer a fool-proof solution for power outages for everyone, be it for your home or office, restaurant or hospital. Based on your need and budget, Blades Power Generation matches you with your ideal generators, manual changeover switch, and automatic changeover switch. Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Can you really imagine spending an hour without your mobile phones, laptops, wi-fi and other electronic appliances and technologies? Seems impossible, right? Well, it is!

In today's fast-paced life, power cuts and loadsheddings are no longer acceptable. To ensure that your homes and offices have power throughout, you must have a source of backup power, like generators with automatic changeover switches.

What is an automatic changeover switch?

An automatic changeover switch, also known as an automatic transfer switch, is used in generators that automatically transfer power from a main source to the backup source when it detects power outages. Unlike a manual transfer switch, here, you do not have to turn on the generator manually. Hence, it is more convenient.

How does an automatic changeover switch work?

An automatic transfer switch plays a key role in connecting a standby generator to your home. Electricity flows from the utility to your home's main electrical circuit, powering all the appliances and components. Here the ATS acts as the brain of the entire secondary power unit. Once it is connected, then it can switch automatically between utility power and generator power. Unlike the manual transfer switch, the ATS can detect power failure automatically and restores power within a few seconds.

How does an ATS detect power loss and restores power automatically?

An automatic changeover switch monitors the incoming and outgoing lines to detect power loss. A voltage sensor monitors the incoming line. It checks whether enough voltage is coming into the system to operate safely. In case there is insufficient voltage, an alarm will go off, and the automatic transfer switch will switch the power source over to the standby generator.

Similarly, the outgoing line is monitored by a frequency sensor. It detects if enough frequency is coming out of the system. If there is inadequate frequency, an alarm goes off, and the ATS switches over to the standby generator.

Light up your spaces with Blades Power Generation:

A 24/7 power supply is necessary in commercial and residential spaces. Unfortunately, you cannot predict power cuts; but with Blades Power Generation, you can stay prepared for it. We offer state-of-the-art power backup to our large clientele ranging from homeowners or businesses. If you are tight on the budget and looking for inexpensive options, buy used generators in the UK from us, and keep your homes and offices functional all the time.