SIDEBAR: Backup Basics-Testing, Testing

While a comprehensive list of recommended testing steps for generators and UPS systems in institutional and commercial facilities requires a major commitment of time and energy, basic testing of these essential systems can be beneficial.

For generator systems, minimum testing should include:

• complete visual inspection of generator and auxiliary system components
• full-load, transient-response testing with power quality analysis
• startup timing and engine-ramp rate testing and full-load burn-in with infrared thermography
• full warning and shutdown testing, locally and at the building management system or electrical power monitoring system
• auxiliary system testing, including redundant starter testing
• testing required by the National Fire Protection Agency or other local authorities.

For UPS systems, minimum testing should include:

• complete visual inspection of components, including battery systems and maintenance-bypass components
• full-load, transient-response testing while on inverter with power-quality monitoring powered by the utility and the generator
• full-load burn with infrared thermography
• rectifier walk-in timing and verification
• complete battery discharge with battery monitoring
• bypass transfer sequence and interlock testing
• full alarm and status indication testing, locally and at the building management system or electrical power monitoring system
• power-saving and efficiency-mode testing and failure response.

Specifying these tests can give managers a basic level of confidence in generators and UPS systems. And while comprehensive testing of these systems at the component and system level requires a greater commitment, managers and facilities should at least consider its benefits, which include increased energy efficiency. But even basic-level testing can help managers understand and trust system capabilities, and it can minimize risk and protect critical loads.