The NFPA is a standard for emergency and standby power systems that has requirements to ensure your generator works consistently during outages.  In this blog, let’s discuss the steps to meet the NFPA 110 standard. 

Steps to meet the NFPA 110 standard

Routine Maintenance

  • Conduct weekly inspections on the Emergency Power Supply System (EPSS), such as the lubrication system, exhaust system, battery system, electrical system, cooling system, and fuel system. 
  • Conduct monthly testing to make sure the generator is under load for at least 30 minutes. Make sure the load is a minimum of 30% of the generator’s nameplate to avoid wet stacking or incomplete combustion in your diesel generators. Test spark-ignited generators with available EPSS load. 
  • Semi-annual and annual inspections include load bank testing, fluid analysis, system inspection, and overall system inspection. In order to maintain level 2 generators,  check the battery system and cooling system inspection, exhaust system, cleaning electrical equipment, alarms, testing all safety equipment, cleaning ignition system, and prime mover.

Testing 

  • Performing important repairs or installations to make sure the load transfer takes place within the specific timeframe, for example,  10 seconds for type 10 systems. And also verify the proper operation.
  • Perform load bank testing annually or if the generator does not meet 30% of the load when performing the monthly test. The load bank test must be the nameplating rating of  25% load for 30 minutes, 50% for 30 minutes, and 75% for 60 minutes, approximately 2 hours. 
  • The perennial or 36-month testing is that during level 1 installation, the 4-hour load test is performed every 36 months. It ensures the generator has the ability to run for the assigned class. 

Documentation

  • Maintain clear records of testing, inspection, and maintenance along with the load conditions, durations, dates, what issues are identified, and what corrective measures are taken. 
  • Make sure you keep manuals, spare parts, and special tools always available. 

Points to ponder 

  • You need to meet the fuel storage guidelines of NFPA 110, which requires 133% fuel for the system’s class. You also need to perform regular testing to check the fuel quality. 
  • Batteries are very important for generator startup, and it is the main cause of generator failure. It is important to check the battery every week and consider replacing it every 2 to 3 years if it requires maintenance.

To learn more about the NFPA 110 standard, talk to a qualified professional and make sure your generator maintenance plan meets best practices and applicable requirements. 

CS Diesel Generators provides all kinds of new and used indoor and outdoor generators and their parts for sale. We also buy your used power generators at competitive pricing. Contact our expert today to provide details of your generator and sell your generator at ease. 

FAQs

What is NFPA 110?

The NFPA 110 is a standard for emergency and standby power systems that has requirements to ensure your generator works consistently during outages.

What are the steps to meet NFPA standards?

Some of the steps to meet NFPA standards are performing routine maintenance, testing, and documentation.