The tests are not complicated. The citations come from missed weeks, monthly tests that did not meet the load requirement, and records that do not capture every required reading.
Weekly
- Visual inspection of the generator, fuel, oil, coolant, battery and transfer switch
- Documented with date, inspector and any deficiencies
Monthly
- Run under load for at least thirty minutes
- Load of at least thirty percent of nameplate rating, or the minimum exhaust gas temperature recommended by the manufacturer
- If the load requirement cannot be met, an annual supplemental load test is required
- Transfer switches operated monthly
- Record start time, run time, load, and readings for oil pressure, water temperature, frequency and voltage
Annual
- Supplemental load bank test when monthly tests do not meet the thirty percent requirement: thirty minutes at twenty-five percent, thirty minutes at fifty percent, and sixty minutes at seventy-five percent of nameplate
- Fuel quality testing for diesel systems
- Battery and charger maintenance per manufacturer
Every three years
- Four-hour test at not less than thirty percent of nameplate rating or the manufacturer's recommended exhaust temperature
Frequently asked questions
At least thirty minutes under load, at a minimum of thirty percent of the nameplate rating or the manufacturer's recommended exhaust gas temperature.