A backup power generator at home is an extremely necessary thing, which is explained by the frequent failures in the power supply of residential buildings. But even its presence does not guarantee a positive result if the device does not provide for automatic switching on. That is why it is so important that the owner of the apartment has at his disposal a generator with automatic start when a power outage occurs. After acquiring it, any user will get rid of the problems associated with a leaked refrigerator and the need to do for some time without light, TV, PC and other amenities of civilization. This issue is especially important for people living in rural areas, where turning off the electricity is a regular phenomenon.
Types of generators, their advantages and disadvantages
The design features of the backup generator allow you to organize its connection to the supply line in case of power failure in the following two ways:
- Manual mode, when the user must go to the device and start it on their own.
- Automatic start, in the presence of which the unit will turn on without human intervention.
The main condition for the automatic operation of the backup system is the presence in the purchased device of an electric starter, which is an indispensable element of such a circuit.
Before going to the store and purchasing an automatic transfer switch for the automatic transfer switch (in foreign models it is called ATS), you must make sure that the starter is included in the kit.
Automatic generators can operate on various types of fuel, according to which they are divided into the following classes:
- gasoline;
- gas;
- working immediately on two types of fuel.
The choice of specific fuel for the backup system depends on the preferences and capabilities of each user.
The indisputable advantages of using electric generators include the supply of 220 Volts with the loss of centralized power supply. But for this opportunity you have to pay a number of inconveniences, which are as follows:
- noise at work, disturbing all people living in the apartment;
- high cost and the need for maintenance (repair);
- significant dimensions.
In addition, when operating in private buildings and in the country in the winter, they need additional heating.
Generator Capabilities and Features
A generator with auto start when the power is turned off normally turns on only if there is an ATS unit that does not need human intervention during its operation. These products are presented on the market by various models that differ in their characteristics, among which stand out:
- the ability to automatically turn on when the quality of the electrical power is degraded;
- high speed switching to ATS;
- automatic return to trouble-free operation (shutdown when restoring the network).
When choosing a specific model of a device with the declared parameters proceed from the needs of an individual user. In domestic conditions, the absence of these opportunities usually does not entail serious consequences. But in factories with a continuous cycle and, in some cases, associated with a danger to human life (in operating medical facilities, for example), these factors are crucial.
The complexity of using these devices at home is also due to their high cost.
ATS or generator with additional function
The automatic start of the generator during power outages is implemented in one of the following ways:
- By acquiring a separate ATS unit and coordinating its work with a generator already in the house, devoid of this option.
- Using a generator model with ATS.
Each of these options has its advantages and disadvantages. In the first case, you will have to accept the additional costs with a minimum of benefits. The second approach seems to be preferable, since it can significantly save on it without losing the quality of the device.
If the purchased generator has an electric starter, you can do without ATS. To turn it into a generator with ABP, a finalization of the design will be required.
Self-made and connected
You can make a device with an ABP with your own hands, if you use the accessories that are available in standard factory models. The main and most expensive part of a home-made machine is a universal controller, and typical contactor devices are used to switch operating modes. To accommodate the entire set of parts and assemblies, a mounting cabinet of the appropriate size will be required. As a power module for the ATS circuit, it is recommended to use a suitable 1-3 Ampere power supply. Based on the specified parameter, its power spent on own needs is at least 2.5 kW.
In a self-made device, there must be:
- mode switch;
- backup power (battery), connected at the time of switching from one mode to another;
- Electromechanical protection device (power circuit breaker for the corresponding current cutoff).
When selecting a controller for the generator, attention is drawn to the presence of an inverse air damper control option instead of the traditional mechanical system.
When choosing the type of contactors, they proceed from the permissible current load attributable to their working elements - power contacts that trip. All parts are factory-made only. You can buy them at specialized centers of trade.
Direct assembly of the generator with ABP is performed in the following order:
- An electric cabinet is mounted in a predetermined place, in its internal space all selected components and parts are placed.
- Using copper conductors of suitable cross-section, the equipment is installed according to a pre-drawn diagram.
- At the final stage, the bare parts of the wires are connected to the corresponding contacts of the equipment.
When assembling the circuit, it is important to ensure that the conductors do not intersect with each other, and the contacts and terminals remain in the public domain.
The finished device is included in the control system according to the classical scheme.
