How to Know If You're in a Power Outage When Your Generator Is On
It's possible to be in a power outage without realizing it. To determine if you're experiencing an actual outage, be aware that your generator needs to detect a loss of power for at least 5 seconds to activate. Another reason your generator may be running is due to a major surge that blew the fuses in the unit, causing it to think there is an outage when it was actually the safety fuses protecting your controller from damage.
But the utility company says I am not in an outage?
If the utility company claims there is no outage in your area, but your generator is running. In some cases, you might be the only customer affected by the outage, especially if the issue is isolated to your property or a specific section of the grid. Additionally, it's possible that the outage is recent, and no other customers have reported it yet. In such situations, it's crucial to remain vigilant and continue monitoring the situation. If you believe you are experiencing a power outage despite the utility company's assurance, it's advisable to follow up with them and provide any additional information or evidence you may have to support your claim.
Questions to Determine If You've Had an Outage
Have you noticed any flashing clocks in your home? Check your microwave, wall clocks, or any other electronic devices with clocks. If they are flashing, it could indicate a recent power outage.
Has there been any unusual weather or lightning activity in your area? Severe weather conditions, including lightning strikes, can cause power outages. Check local weather reports to see if there have been any recent disturbances in your area.
Have you experienced any power surges recently? Power surges can occur due to various reasons, such as lightning strikes, utility grid fluctuations, or faulty wiring. Some customers might notice flickering lights or dimming circuits during power surges.
How long has the unit been running? If your generator has been running for an extended period and you haven't experienced any power interruptions, it might indicate a malfunction.
Do you have a wifi or LTE monitoring device on your generator? If your generator is monitored through a service like MobileLink Fleet, they can provide more information and help determine if you're experiencing an outage. Check the status of your generator through the monitoring system to see if it indicates any issues or power interruptions.
By asking yourself these questions and observing your surroundings, you can better determine if your generator is running due to an actual power outage or other factors. If you suspect a malfunction or are unsure about the status of your generator, it's essential to contact a qualified technician for inspection and repair.