Differences Between Commercial and Industrial Generators

Like residential properties, businesses and facilities benefit from having a backup power source to supply power during outages and disasters. An hour of downed systems can halt business operations and production, resulting in significant revenue loss and equipment damage.

Luckily, commercial and industrial generators exist to help prevent inconvenient situations. These machines can withstand heavier loads than the standard residential unit; however, some companies can confuse them as the same.

There are some differences between commercial and industrial generators; continue reading below to learn more about them!

Commercial Generators

Commercial generators can be comparable to residential units in the amount of power they can provide. Commercial units have a sturdy build and utilize robust engines that can handle the demands of office equipment and computers.

These machines often contain cooling parts that regulate internal temperatures during operation to avoid overheating while producing more power wattage.

Types of Commercial Generators

The most common types of commercial power units are gasoline and natural gas. Gasoline-powered equipment typically runs at less than a 150 kW power level and is optimal when used in areas with higher temperatures.

Natural gas commercial generators are perfect for those businesses with access to a natural gas grid and can provide material on demand. Natural gas-powered units are suitable in cooler climates.

Industrial Generators

Like commercial generators, industrial options can also handle a significant load when operating in their setting. However, the machine is more robust than commercial options to withstand operating conditions and industrial environments better.

While it’s typical to spot machinery in environments like construction, oil well sites, and chemical plants, industrial generators also serve the entertainment industry well!

Industrial power equipment can produce 150 kW to two megawatts of power and often have NEMA-rated enclosures to comply with noise regulations.

Types of Industrial Generators

While there are different types of industrial generators, diesel and natural gas are amongst the most common types of units in industrial settings. Diesel industrial units are often the first choice for many facilities in remote locations or away from natural gas connections.

While all backup power equipment shares the same purpose, there are differences between commercial and industrial generators that make each ideal in different industries. If your business or facility requires a standby energy unit, consider the abovementioned points to help you decide what equipment is best for your needs.