Portable generators can be invaluable for quite a few applications, from powering small appliances in the great outdoors to backup during electrical outages. The Australian and New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS 3010:2017, lays down the criteria for the prudently secure and performative generating sets. If you use a generator both casually and for something critical in use, it would be good to know about this standard to make the use assuredly safe and effective.
Major considerations to make portable generators function safely would be connected to appliances using a good quality extension lead; ensured appropriate connecting procedures with the appliances. It’s the best way always to wire the appliances directly to the generator to reduce electrical problems and have a stable power feed to your equipment.
Professional Connections Only
Any connection of the generator to fixed wiring must be done by a licensed electrician. They will make sure that the wiring and the safety switch are compatible with your generator; this is very important in preventing electrical hazards from occurring.Know Your Power Needs
Of all the various appliances, each has its unique power requirements. Before you plug any equipment, know its power requirement to avoid overloading of the generator.Manage Appliance Use
If you are running the generator because of a power outage, consider which appliances to run first. For example, empty your refrigerator or freezer to prevent spoilage. These appliances can keep the contents cold for hours without power.Information to Look for When Buying a Portable Generator
When buying a portable generator, make sure that it meets the AS/NZS 3010:2017 standard and includes all of the following information:Intended Use
State if the generator is to be used for recreation, light contracting, residential essential backup, or more rugged jobs, like construction or marine applications. That will allow you to select appropriate generators with corresponding features and capabilities.Operating Periods
Ensure you consider the number of hours expected to run the genset during the day, week, or month, and the maximum number of hours the set can be used daily. This information is important so that you may know if the generator will adequately serve its purpose and how often maintenance/overhaul is required.Fuel Type
Check on the fuel the type of generator runs on, whether on petrol, a petrol-oil mixture used on two-stroke engines, or diesel. This impacts operational cost and ease of use.Electrical Specifications
Check the generator output in watts or kilowatts. The starting power for appliances with motors can be very large, even if the running power requirement is much smaller.Voltage and Frequency
Most portable generators on offer give 240V at 50Hz, single-phase. Ensure that this is the power configuration that you want, in particular if you have a great need to use delicate electronic equipment that cannot tolerate wide variations in voltage and frequency.Other Features:
15 A Plug-Sockets
Whether the generator is fitted with plug-sockets to AS 3112.Noise Level
Whether a limited noise level is an important consideration in your application.Voltage Control
Whether manual or automatic voltage control is a necessity.Measurement Tools
Whether a voltmeter or ammeter is desirable.Special Protections
Special lifting arrangements, protection against damp, corrosion-resistant coatings, etc., if operated in a hostile environment.Ensuring Safe and Efficient Operation
In this regard, the portable generator installed under the rules of AS/NZS 3010:2017 can be used without problems for the safe and effective operation of the installation. Safety and performance depend a lot on proper installation, knowing clearly what the power requirements are, and maintaining the set regularly. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for support purposes, and in some cases, go to professional assistance for the fullest benefit concerning useful life and maximum reliability for any portable generator.We design and manufacture high-quality switchboards. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and get started!