Diesel Generator Buying Tips - The guide to diesel generators

Once you've decided to purchase a diesel generator, there are several considerations you must keep in mind when choosing which generator to buy, where to install it and how to install it.

This guide will help you make informed decisions during the selection process. Choosing the right machine is not difficult if you take the time to analyze your requirements carefully. All World Generators sales engineering staff is available to help you with all aspects of your diesel generator , home generator or industrial generator purchase.

Generator Types and Features
A diesel generator produces either single or three phase emergency power. Choose a single phase set if you do not have any motors above five horsepower. Three-phase power is better for motor starting and running. Most homeowners will require single phase home generator whereas industrial or commercial standby generator usually require three phase power. Three phase generators are set up to produce 120/208 or 277/480 volts. Single-phase sets are 120 or 120/240. Use the low voltage to run domestic appliances and the high voltage for your motors, heaters, stoves and dryers.

Gas Generator Diesel Generator or Trifuel Generator ?
We recommend diesel generators due to their longevity and lower operating costs. Today’s modern diesel genset are quiet and normally require much less maintenance than comparably sized gas generator (natural gas or propane) units. Fuel costs per kW produced with diesel generators is normally thirty to fifty percent less than gas units.

1800 rpm water cooled diesel units operate on average 12-30,000 hours before major maintenance is required. 1800 rpm water cooled gas units normally operate 6-10,000 hours because they are built on a lighter duty gasoline engine block.

3600 rpm air-cooled gas units are normally replaced – not overhauled at 500 to 1500 hours.

Because the gas generators burn hotter (higher btu of the fuel) you will see significantly shorter lives than the diesel units.

Features and Benefits to Look for
Major brand of engine – We do not recommend you purchase a Chinese built unit or off brand engine, you will not be able to obtain the necessary follow-on parts and service support available with our diesel generators.

Safety shutdown system to protect the engine in case of oil pressure loss, generator overspeed or overcrank and high water temperature

DC system circuit breaker.

Engine Accessories and Controls
Upon determining the generator size you will need, make a list of optional and installation equipment you require. For noise reduction, we recommend a home (not industrial grade) muffler. A good primary fuel filter/water separator is a must to protect your engine's fuel system. Standby generators may require a block heater to keep the coolant/water mix at an adequate temperature for easier starting.

A.C. Switchgear and Controls
Switchgear can be as simple or complex as you want or can afford. Of course, as complexity increases, so does cost. Balance and a good electrical advisor are the keys here.  All generator systems require a circuit breaker and a distribution panel. The circuit breaker protects the generator set from short circuit and unbalanced electrical loads. The distribution panel divides and routes the connected loads and includes circuit breakers to protect these loads. Stand-by systems also require a main circuit breaker between the utility source and the transfer panel. The transfer panel switches power from the utility to the gen-set and back so that both aren't on at the same time. Auto-start, auto-transfer systems are available but are costly. Your supplier or contractor can help you determine what you will need.

In Conclusion - All World Generator can provide for all your generator needs from 2 Mega Watt units for industrial generator customers seeking heavy duty industrial main or standby generators to home generator models. We can provide you with diesel, natural gas or propane powered units. We offer only top quality products that are priced at or below our competition who offer lesser brands!

Why diesel generators?
Diesel electric generators are often used where electricity is desired or needed, but the demand is not large enough for electric utilities to run power lines to the load. The diesel cycle is similar to the Otto cycle used by gasoline-fueled generators. In a diesel engine, the fuel is injected into the cylinder under high pressure, where a gasoline engine injects the fuel into the airflow. Diesel engines have higher compression ratios than gasoline engines, allowing diesels to work without spark plugs.  A four-stroke diesel cycle includes introduction of an air-fuel mixture into the cylinder, compression with resultant combustion of fuel, power stroke, and exhaust stroke where the combustion products are expelled from the cylinder.

Why not Gas?
Gas is highly flamable at relatively low tempatures. Diesels are far more effecient than a gasoline engine. Diesel engines are deigned to last much longer than a gasoline engine. Gas generators will need to be overhauled in as little as 1,000 hours if they can be overhauled at all. Diesels typically require an overhaul at 10-15 thousand miles. Gasoline has a relatively short shelf life. Gas is far more expensive than diesel fuel.

FAQ about diesel generators

Why is a diesel generator better than a gasoline generator?
The way diesel gensets are built they will last much longer than a gasoline powered engine.  Diesels are far more efficient; thus more cost effective.

How does the maintenance of a diesel generator compare to that of a propane or gasoline generator?
Propane or gasoline generators will need to be overhauled in as little as 1,000 hours if they can be overhauled. Diesel Generators require very little maintenance and will easily run ten to fifteen thousand hours before the first overhaul is necessary.

 What about diesel fuel compared to gasoline?
Diesel fuel is less expensive, less explosive and can be stored for longer periods than gasoline.