An Explainer for Generator Power Ratings: Difference between Prime & Standby

If you are a newbie in the generators market and have been on a hunt for a suitable type for your home or business, Google is bound to throw words like “prime-rated” and “standby rated” at you. These references can be puzzling for anyone at first.

In simpler terms, these two words indicate the amount of power a generator can supply in two different scenarios – when used as standby power and utilized as primary power.

Standby power refers to when a generator deploys as a backup to the main supply power, especially during emergencies. The generator used as a primary power source refers to primary power.

Even metro cities like Delhi cannot escape power outages. The problem will undoubtedly compel you to look for generator dealers in Delhi. Why not enhance your understanding further to make the right choice? 

Let’s Dive Deeper! Definition of Prime-Rated & Standby-Rated Generator

Prime-Rated Generator

As a primary source of power, prime-rated generators can run 24/7, given that the load varies in the range of 50% to 100% of the generator’s prime rating.

For instance, if a generators prime power rating is 100 kVA, it can run for countless hours if the load falls between 50 and 100 kVA.

Low loading – a scenario where a generator runs 50 percent below its rated prime load – should be avoided to prevent damage to the generator. Low loading causes fuel to burn inefficiently, leading to unburnt fuel and a decrease in the generator’s efficiency.

Prime-rated generators, designed to operate with slight overload at their higher standby rating, are, however, for a brief period (for about an hour). Standby rating suggests the maximum power obtained from a machine.

Standby-Rated Generator

Standby-rated generators are also known as emergency power generators, installed in a fixed position to serve during power outages until the utility power is restored. These generators supply power backup for 1 hour in 12 hours.

With the capacity to serve 200-250 hours in a year, standby-rated generators are gaining popularity amid increasing power cuts due to extreme weather and technical glitches.

You can easily spot this type of generator in public spaces like hospitals, which require an uninterrupted power supply and industrial and commercial purposes.

While noise remains a common drawback for these generators, people now prefer silent generator manufacturer. You may get in touch with generators dealers in Delhi to request for the same.

We hope that by the time you finished reading this article, you developed a fair understanding of these jargons. In the end, the right knowledge will help you to make an informed decision.

Still, wondering which one would suit your need? Discuss your requirements with the generator specialist. At Skyline Power Solution, we are committed to helping you make the right choice. Your search for a perfect generator ends here! Call on 9212552666 to request a quote.