Emergency backup power systems are a valuable addition to any commercial property. However, property managers with multiple properties often struggle to manage all of their backup systems effectively. The consequences of bad management could be severe. Commercial properties include everything from medical facilities to office complexes. Power failures in these facilities can result in everything from a patient not receiving critical medical care to a business suffering significant financial losses. Thankfully, modern remote generator monitoring solutions remove much of the complexity involved with managing multiple emergency power backup systems.
The Evolution of Remote Generator Monitoring Technology
Traditional generator management involved manual inspection. Information and adjustments were performed on basic control panels with limited data about system performance. Today's digital monitoring systems provide significantly more information and are able to be operated remotely. Those simple manual controls are replaced with advanced digital platforms that can monitor multiple generators even across vast geographical distances.
These solutions come in sizes to fit various business needs. Some offer basic control panels with essential indicators and gauges, while others have advanced panels that can automatically respond to power outages. The most sophisticated of these also provide deep insights into the engines, alternators, and auxiliary equipment. The information those systems provide allows for much more effective proactive management strategies.
Key Components of Effective Remote Monitoring Systems
The best remote monitoring systems consist of three major components:
Real-Time Data Collection and Analysis
Modern monitoring solutions give property managers instant access to performance metrics about their generators. They continuously track vital engine data such as oil pressure, coolant temperature, fuel levels, battery voltage, and more. Advanced systems can even detect anomalies and potential failures, giving advanced warning so problems can be addressed before they impact operations.
Wireless Communication Infrastructure
In order to work remotely, the latest remote generator monitoring solutions rely on wireless connections. This could come in the form of GSM digital wireless, cellular networks, or internet connectivity. This connectivity provides reliable data transmission for the generators to centralized monitoring systems. It gives property managers 24/7 access to the status of all of their generators from one centralized location.
Centralized Management Platforms
Sophisticated monitoring platforms combine data from multiple properties into a single, easy-to-read interface. With these interfaces, property managers can monitor their entire fleets from their smartphones, tablets, or computers. They'll have real-time updates so they can oversee numerous properties for improved operational efficiency and faster response times.
Essential Monitoring Capabilities for Property Managers
Monitoring systems provide several capabilities that improve the lives of property managers.
Comprehensive System Diagnostics
Good monitoring systems track both engine functionality and general operational parameters. The engine monitoring provides features such as:
● Overcrank shutdown protections
● Temperature warnings and shutdowns
● Oil pressure monitoring
● Overspeed shutdown
● Fuel level alerts
● Coolant level monitoring
The general operation parameters monitored often include:
● Battery charger status
● Master switch positions
● Lamp testing capabilities
● Audible alarm management
Automated Alert Systems
A big advantage of monitoring solutions is that they provide instant notifications through multiple communication channels. Property managers can receive these notifications through phone calls, text messages, emails, and mobile app notifications. This real-time communication provides immediate notification of system failures or maintenance requirements. They enable faster response times that limit downtime.
Location Tracking and Asset Management
Often, property managers make use of portable generators. GPS-enabled monitoring systems can provide information about where all of these generators are located, making asset management much easier. This is particularly valuable for managing rental equipment or temporary installations.
Operational Benefits for Multi-Property Management
The powerful capabilities of monitoring solutions provide multiple benefits to those managing several properties:
Proactive Maintenance Optimization
Traditional maintenance strategies are reactive. They wait for something to go wrong and then fix it. With the data provided by remote monitoring solutions, that strategy can become more proactive. Maintenance can be performed based on actual equipment conditions rather than arbitrary time intervals. This reduces maintenance costs and catches more problems early.
Fuel Management Efficiency
Fuel management can be difficult. At best, property managers have an estimate of how much fuel their generators burn. The lack of precision in this data means that some fuel deliveries are not necessary, and others might be too late. Monitoring systems track fuel consumption patterns, enabling property managers to know exactly when fuel needs to be delivered.
Enhanced Compliance Management
Many commercial properties must comply with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes, particularly NFPA 99 and 110. These regulations require detailed monitoring for healthcare facilities and other critical applications. Remote monitoring systems automatically track all of the data required and can instantly generate compliance reports.
Implementation Considerations
To effectively implement a remote monitoring solution, there are several factors to take into account:
Scalability and Integration
When choosing a monitoring system, look for one that will scale as your portfolio of properties grows. The platform you choose should integrate with your existing building management systems for improved workflows. It should also accommodate a wide range of generator brands and models.
Professional Support Services
The most comprehensive monitoring solutions often include professional support services. These services provide expert analysis and response coordination. They present a valuable supplement to in-house maintenance teams, providing specialized expertise for complex issues and emergencies.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Many property managers are put off by the initial investment costs of a remote monitoring system. While these platforms do require a significant initial investment, they typically provide fantastic ROI. They reduce maintenance costs, improve fuel efficiency, minimize downtime, and increase the lifespan of equipment.
Partnering With Bay City Electric Works
For property managers who want comprehensive remote generator monitoring, Bay City Electric Works offers industry-leading expertise. We have locations across California, providing a one-stop solution for acquiring top-quality Rehlko (formerly Kohler Energy) generators, monitoring systems, and support services. Our monitoring solutions include real-time updates with response times faster than 5 seconds. This includes 24/7 technical support and GPS tracking for improved multi-property management. To learn more, contact us today.
