Aurora Capital Partners Acquires GenServe, a Leading Infrastructure Services Provider of Critical Power Supply Solutions

August 5, 2024 by fallsdigital Leave a Comment

LOS ANGELES, August 5, 2024 — Aurora Capital Partners (“Aurora”), a leading middle-market private equity firm, today announced that it has acquired GenServe (the “Company”), the market-leading independent provider of backup power solutions for commercial, industrial and critical infrastructure applications. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 1990, GenServe provides a comprehensive suite of standby power solutions to protect its customers against costly grid outages. Powered by its industry-leading team of more than 150 field technicians, GenServe performs preventative maintenance and service repairs for more than 10,000 customers across many applications and end-markets including healthcare, data center, utilities, government, and education. The Company has recently expanded its operations beyond the Northeastern U.S through organic expansion and 12 completed acquisitions, with service capabilities in more than 7 states via sixteen branch locations today.

“GenServe is a terrific fit with Aurora’s investment focus within industrial and infrastructure services. The Company’s consistent track record of high-quality service has resulted in a loyal customer base and a leading market-position across multiple regions in North America,” said Matthew Laycock, Partner at Aurora. “With a well-diversified platform of critical, non-deferrable solutions, the Company is well-positioned to take advantage of significant macro tailwinds in the power resiliency space, including an aging electrical grid prone to outages and increased cost of power failure. We look forward to working closely with the GenServe team to execute Aurora’s Strategy & Operations Program by strategically deploying growth capital to expand its geographic footprint and service offerings.”

“Aurora’s track record and experience in the broader industrial and infrastructure services industry, commitment to partnering with management teams and expertise in implementing successful Buy & Build acquisition programs makes it the ideal growth capital partner for GenServe,” said Fred Smagorinsky, CEO of GenServe. “We identified a significant opportunity to expand our business through M&A more than five years ago, and we are excited to partner with Aurora to continue executing that strategy while also maintaining a relentless focus on organic expansion, geographic growth and industry-leading customer service.”

“The GenServe team has built a compelling M&A pipeline to complement its impressive organic growth and has a long runway ahead as the consolidator of choice in its markets,” said Jordan Leibowitz, Vice President at Aurora.

The GenServe investment follows several recent Aurora partnerships in the industrial and infrastructure services space, including VLS Environmental Solutions, PSC Group, Sharps Medical Waste Services, and IronSite (fka Automated Gate Services).

Lazard and KeyBanc Capital Markets served as financial advisors to GenServe. Piper Sandler served as financial advisor and Gibson Dunn served as legal advisor to Aurora. Ares Management Credit funds arranged the debt financing for the transaction.

About Aurora Capital Partners

Aurora Capital Partners is a leading Los Angeles-based private equity firm with $5 billion in assets under management. Founded in 1991, the firm invests in middle-market companies with leading market positions, stable industry dynamics, attractive business model characteristics and actionable opportunities for growth in partnership with management. For more information about Aurora Capital Partners, visit: www.auroracap.com.

About GenServe

GenServe is a market leader in the power resiliency space, providing its customers with critical maintenance, repair, rental and sale of commercial and industrial backup power solutions. The Company has one of the largest teams of EGSA certified technicians of any independent generator maintenance company. GenServe is a one-stop-shop provider of comprehensive power supply solutions to protect companies against the high cost of power failure. For more information on GenServe, please visit www.genserveinc.com.

Media Contacts

ASC Advisors

Taylor Ingraham

203-992-1230

tingraham@ascadvisors.com

GenNx360 Capital Partners Announces GenServe’s 12th Acquisition, Electro-Motion, Inc.

June 12, 2024 by Genserve Marketing

New York, New York. June 12, 2024 – GenNx360 Capital Partners is pleased to announce GenServe’s acquisition
of Electro-Motion, Inc. (“Electro-Motion” or the “Company”). GenServe is a portfolio company of GenNx360
Capital Partners (“GenNx360”), a New York-based private equity firm investing in middle market business
services and industrial companies.

GenServe is a leading independent provider of scheduled and emergency power generator maintenance, repair
and sales in the Northeast region, with significant presence across Texas, Florida and Illinois, serving primarily
commercial and municipal customers in various industries.

Electro-Motion is a key player in the San Francisco Bay Area generator market, serving a diverse set of customers
in commercial end markets. The Company provides maintenance and repair services for generators and backup
power solutions, as well as generator and related equipment sales and rentals.

GenServe CEO, Fred Smagorinsky, said, “We are excited to be expanding GenServe’s business into a new region,
and even more excited to be able to do it with the great team at Electro-Motion, all of whom will be joining
GenServe. Electro-Motion has an impressive team dedicated to the success of their customers and will be a great
fit with GenServe’s Service First model.”

“The team at Electro-Motion has built an exceptional reputation in the Bay Area and we look forward to leveraging
the capabilities GenServe will bring to provide even more advanced technical capabilities to our customers,” said
David McAnelly, Electro-Motion CEO.

“We are excited for GenServe to move into another highly desirable region on its path to becoming the leading
nationwide independent backup power systems service provider,” said Daphne Dufresne, GenServe Board Chair
and GenNx360 Managing Partner.

About GenServe

GenServe is a leader in the maintenance, repair, rental and sale of commercial generators and backup power
solutions. The Company has the largest team of EGSA certified technicians of any independent generator
maintenance company. GenServe is a one-stop shop provider of comprehensive emergency power supply system
solutions to protect companies against the high cost of power failure. For more information on GenServe, please
visit www.genserveinc.com.

About GenNx360 Capital Partners

GenNx360 Capital Partners is a private equity firm focused on investing in middle market business services and industrial companies. GenNx360 partners with companies having proven and sustainable business models in expanding industries, with the objective of implementing and supporting value enhancing organic and inorganic initiatives to accelerate growth, deliver efficiencies and generate strong financial returns. GenNx360 was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in New York City.

For more information on GenNx360 Capital Partners, please visit www.gennx360.com.

For media inquiries about this press release, please contact:
GenNx360 Capital Partners
Carmen Rojas, Director of Investor Relations
Email: investorrelations@gennx360.com
Tel: 212-257-6772

GenNx360 Capital Partners Announces GenServe’s 11th Acquisition, Austin Welder & Generator Service, Inc.

January 9, 2024 by fallsdigital Leave a Comment

New York, New York. January 9, 2024 – GenNx360 Capital Partners is pleased to announce GenServe’s acquisition of the commercial division of Austin Welder & Generator Service, Inc. (“Austin Generator” or the “Company”). In addition to the commercial division, the Company has a residential division, which was excluded from the transaction. GenServe is a portfolio company of GenNx360 Capital Partners (“GenNx360”), a New York-based private equity firm investing in middle market business services and industrial companies.

GenServe is a leading independent provider of scheduled and emergency power generator maintenance, repair and sales in the Northeast region, with significant presence across Texas, Florida and Illinois, serving primarily commercial and municipal customers in various industries.

Austin Generator is a key player in the Austin, Texas generator market, serving a diverse set of customers in commercial and municipal end markets. Austin Generator provides maintenance and repairservices for generators and backup power solutions, as well as generator and related equipment sales and rentals.

GenServe CEO, Fred Smagorinsky, said, “We are excited to bring the highly skilled team at Austin Generator into GenServe. Their reputation for service excellence is well known in the Austin area and dovetails well with GenServe’s focus on providing outstanding service for critical backup power infrastructure.”

“Austin Generator has built a longstanding reputation for excellent customer service and technical capability in the Austin area, and I am confident that GenServe will uphold that reputation while improving on business systems and capabilities to provide an even better experience for our customers,” said Kurt Summers, Austin Generator President.

“This is an important addition to GenServe’s Texas business, giving the company greater scale and depth in the region and making it a premier independent generator service provider in the Austin area,” said Daphne Dufresne, GenServe Board Chair and GenNx360 Managing Partner.

About GenServe

GenServe is a leader in the maintenance, repair, and sale of industrial generators and backup power solutions. The Company has the largest team of EGSA certified technicians of any independent generator maintenance company. GenServe is a one-stop shop provider of comprehensive emergency power supply system solutions to protect companies against the high cost of power failure.

About GenNx360 Capital Partners

GenNx360 Capital Partners is a private equity firm focused on acquiring middle market business services and industrial companies. GenNx360 partners with companies having proven and sustainable business models in expanding industries with the objective of implementing and supporting value-enhancing organic and inorganic initiatives to accelerate growth, deliver cost efficiencies, and generate strong financial returns. Target industries include industrial machinery and components, logistics and supply chain solutions, industrial and environmental services, food and agricultural products and services, infrastructure equipment and services, specialty chemicals, packaging, and aerospace and defense. GenNx360 was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in New York City.

For more information on GenNx360 Capital Partners, please visit http://www.gennx360.com. For media inquiries about this press release, please contact:

GenNx360 Capital Partners

Carmen Rojas, Director of Investor Relations

Email: investorrelations@gennx360.com

Tel: +1 212.257.6772

GenNx360 Capital Partners Announces GenServe’s 10th Acquisition, R&J Control, Inc.

June 7, 2023 by Genserve Marketing Leave a Comment

New York, New York. June 6, 2023 – GenNx360 Capital Partners is pleased to announce GenServe’s acquisition
of R&J Control, Inc. (“R&J Control” or the “Company”). GenServe is a portfolio company of GenNx360 Capital
Partners (“GenNx360”), a New York-based private equity firm investing in middle market business services and
industrial companies.

GenServe is a leading independent provider of scheduled and emergency power generator maintenance, repair and sales in the Northeast region, with significant presence across Texas, Florida and Illinois, serving primarily commercial and municipal customers in various industries.

R&J Control is a key player in the New Jersey generator market, serving a diverse set of customers in commercial
and municipal end-markets. Based in Dover, New Jersey, R&J Control provides maintenance, repair, and remote
monitoring services for generators and backup power solutions, as well as generator and related equipment sales
and rentals.

GenServe CEO, Fred Smagorinsky, said, “The acquisition of R&J Control strengthens GenServe’s already
significant market presence in the tri-state area. We are excited to bring their highly skilled and experienced team
into the GenServe family and accelerate our growth in this core market. We are also pleased that Jeff Berry, former
owner and President of R&J Control, and his entire leadership team, will be joining GenServe.”

“R&J Control has a long-standing reputation for excellent customer service in New Jersey, and I am excited to
improve on that reputation by partnering with GenServe and leveraging their team, systems and capabilities to
provide a better experience for our customers,” said Jeff Berry, R&J Control President.

“This addition to GenServe’s already strong presence in the tri-state area cements our position as the most capable and responsive generator service provider in the region,” said Daphne Dufresne, GenServe Board Chair and
GenNx360 Managing Partner

About GenServe

About GenNx360 Capital Partners

For more information on GenNx360 Capital Partners, please visit http://www.gennx360.com. For media inquiries about this press release, please contact:

GenNx360 Capital Partners

Carmen Rojas, Director of Investor Relations

Email: investorrelations@gennx360.com

Tel: +1 212.257.6772

GenNx360 Capital Partners Announces GenServe’s 9th Acquisition, Illini Power Products and Gen-Power

January 3, 2023 by Genserve Marketing Leave a Comment

New York, New York. January 3, 2023 – GenNx360 Capital Partners (“GenNx360”) is pleased to announce GenServe’s acquisition of Illini Power Products and Gen-Power (or the “Company”). GenServe is a portfolio company of GenNx360, a New York-based private equity firm investing in middle market business services and industrial companies.

GenServe is a leading independent provider of scheduled and emergency power generator maintenance, repair and sales in the North Atlantic region, with significant presence across Texas and Florida, serving primarily commercial customers in various industries.

Illini Power Products and Gen-Power are key players in the Chicago generator market, serving a diverse set of customers in the municipal and commercial end markets. Based in Carol Stream, Illinois, Illini Power Products provides maintenance and repair services for generators and backup power solutions, as well as generator and related equipment sales. A sister company to Illini Power Products serving the same territory, Gen-Power provides rental generators and accessories to commercial, municipal, and other end markets.

“The acquisition of Illini Power Products and Gen-Power marks another major geographic expansion for GenServe. We are excited to bring their team into the GenServe family and accelerate our growth. We are also pleased that the leadership team from the Company, including their former owner and President, Scott Harbaugh, and their General Manager, Chris Rizzo, will be joining GenServe,” said Fred Smagorinsky, GenServe’s CEO.

“I am excited to work with the GenServe team to take our business to the next level and drive significant growth in the Chicago area. Our employees are excited by the systems and capabilities that GenServe will bring to the business to facilitate that growth,” said Scott Harbaugh, Illini Power Products and Gen-Power President.

“This acquisition gives GenServe a key beachhead in the Chicago area and the large Mid-West region that we have been focused on entering as part of our buy-and-build strategy,” said Daphne Dufresne, GenServe Board chair and GenNx360 Managing Partner.

About GenServe

About GenNx360 Capital Partners

For more information on GenNx360 Capital Partners, please visit http://www.gennx360.com. For media inquiries about this press release, please contact:

GenNx360 Capital Partners

Carmen Rojas, Director of Investor Relations

Email: investorrelations@gennx360.com

Tel: +1 212.257.6772

Industrial Generator Preventative Maintenance Checklist

September 14, 2022 by Genserve Marketing Leave a Comment

Why is Preventative Maintenance Important?

If you own a generator, it’s important to schedule preventative maintenance checks regularly to help you catch any potential problems before they become bigger issues.

GenServe’s promise to provide backup power when needed starts with ensuring your equipment is well-maintained. When your backup power system is inspected and serviced regularly, it assures it will be prepared to perform in an emergency and extend the equipment’s life.

Below is a Preventative Maintenance Checklist that our technicians follow when performing minor and major services to your system.

Generator Minor Service (Monthly, Quarterly, or Semi-Annual) Inspections and Maintenance Checklist

Performed as needed (monthly, quarterly or semi-annually). Depending on the industry and type of facility operated.

The minor service covers the following essential checks and inspections:

• Check the generator’s air filter and replace it if necessary.

• Check the cooling system looking for leaks, and add coolant as needed.

• Inspect the fan belts for age, possible cracks, and condition.

• Test the block heater.

• Check the battery and charging system.

• Test the louvers for proper operation.

• Inspect all the fittings, mountings, linkages, and flex connections.

• Check the oil condition and level, look for leaks, and top off the oil as needed.

• Inspect the fuel system and day tank for leaks and cleanliness.

• Inspect the exhaust system for leaks.

• Test the light bulbs and fuses.

• Free the enclosure from dirt and debris.

• Check all the fluid levels in the generator and top them off as needed.

• Inspect the generator control panel.

• Perform a building load test.

Generator Major Service (Annual) Inspections and Maintenance Checklist

Typically performed annually or as operating hours require it. Depending on the industry and type of facility operated.

This service includes everything covered by the minor service plus the following:

• Replace the engine oil and oil filters.

• Replace the air filter and spark plugs.

• Replace the fuel filter and water separator.

• Perform a load bank test.

What is the Difference Between a “Building Load Test” and a “Load Bank Test,” and When To Perform It?

A building load test determines how well the power system performs in real-world conditions. The test involves shutting off the main power supply to the building and seeing if the backup power system can take over.

Depending on the type of facility that you operate, this test is typically done once a month to ensure the generator can handle the actual load needed to serve as a backup for the building.

A load bank is a generator-testing device that allows you to test the output of your generator by simulating a load. This way, you can ensure that your generator can maintain voltage and current levels within specified limits under an actual electrical load. Load banks are significant for preventative maintenance purposes.

NFPA-110 standards typically require this type of testing every three years. But performing it once a year with a qualified technician is recommended when your generator does not produce 30% of its rated kW load.

For more information, see also our article “The Difference Between A Load Bank And A Building Load Test”

GenServe’s Generator Preventative Maintenance Services

GenServe provides the following Preventative Maintenance Services:

• Major Service (Includes a full oil change, and a series of visual and manual checks)
• Minor Service (Includes a series of visual and manual checks)
• Building Load Test (Simulates a power outage by manually shutting down utility power to the building)
• Load Bank Test (Tests the generator under various loads)

Click HERE for other services such as Fuel Polishing, ATS Maintenance or Cooling System Service.

GenServe’s team of field technicians is unmatched in our industry. While other companies have five, ten, or fifteen generator technicians on call, we have over 100 experienced technicians in the field. In addition, our team is strategically placed across our service areas and takes home fully stocked vans daily. This makes us the most reliable resource for quick service and repairs, even during significant power outages and inclement weather.

With such a large team at our disposal, GenServe can stand by a 2-hour or less response time on emergency generator service calls. If your backup power needs require more than service or repairs, we have multiple generator rental options available 24/7x

No Matter Your Generator, We Can Service It

We uphold our promise to be a reliable resource for your emergency power needs by working with the best generator manufacturers. Our history of working with many vendors has allowed our technicians to become comfortable working on all types of equipment. In thirty years of business, our field team rarely encounters equipment they cannot service.

We are the only company you need to call for work on your backup power systems. We have experience working on equipment from many brands, including:

Schedule Service Today

Don’t wait any longer, contact our service department today with questions and to schedule preventative maintenance service.

What is NFPA-110 and Why is It Important?

July 11, 2022 by Genserve Marketing Leave a Comment

NFPA-110 is a standard for emergency and standby power systems, especially when it involves life safety. The standard covers the installation and maintenance of equipment and systems used to provide backup power in case of an outage.

NFPA-110 is important because it helps ensure that backup power systems are reliable and safe during emergencies.

What is NFPA-110?

The National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA-110 is the most important safety standard that outlines requirements for the installation, maintenance, operation and testing of emergency power sources, transfer equipment, controls, supervisory equipment, and all related electrical and mechanical auxiliary and accessory equipment needed to supply electrical power to the load terminals of the transfer equipment.

The NFPA-110 code also establishes the minimum requirements for the safe storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids. It is important because it helps to prevent fires and explosions that could result from the improper storage or handling of these liquids.

It also includes requirements for fire protection, electrical systems, and emergency procedures.

Who needs NFPA-110?

As mentioned, NFPA-110 provides guidelines for installing and maintaining emergency power systems, including generators, automatic transfer switches and batteries.

These systems are essential for ensuring that critical equipment, such as elevators, fire pumps, life safety equipment, communications systems, emergency illumination and essential ventilation to name a few continue to operate well during a power outage.

NFPA-110 applies to both new and existing emergency power systems. This standard is important for business owners to understand because it can help ensure people’s and equipment’s safety.

There are two EPSS (Emergency Power Supply System) levels defined in the standard: Level 1 and Level 2. They’re distinguished by the types of loads they carry, and have different equipment and installation standards.

NFPA-110 is mandatory for critical facilities, such as health providers, hospitals data centers, and others.

By following these guidelines, building owners and operators can help ensure that their systems are reliable and will be able to provide power when it is needed most.

How To Know if Your Generator is NFPA-110 Compliant?

To be in NFPA-110 compliance, a generator must be able to meet several safety requirements, including safely connecting to a building’s electrical system in 10 seconds or less and having an automatic shutdown feature in the event of a fire or an emergency stop button and fuel leak prevention.

To keep your generator in NFPA-110 compliance, you should have it inspected by a qualified generator company regularly, sometimes as much as once a month and a load bank test at least every three-years. You should also ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s recommended instructions for operating and maintaining the generator.

Fire marshals have been doubling down on random site visits all across the country and have been issuing fines for facilities that are not in compliance. They will ask for the generator maintenance records performed by a generator company such as: the yearly major service report, the monthly minor service reports and building load test sheets and the (yearly or triennial) load bank report.

Your facility diesel generator’s reliability and compliance will be determined by making sure you practice these standards and follow the guidelines diligently.

Utility Outage with Single Generator System – Sequence of Events

Utility Outage with Multiple Generator System – Sequence of Events

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If you’re not sure whether your generator is certified, contact our service department today. Our sales & service teams can answer all your questions regarding NFPA-110 and ensure that your facility is in compliance to avoid fines from fire marshals or town inspectors.

Comparing Diesel vs. Natural Gas Industrial Generators

July 3, 2022 by Genserve Marketing Leave a Comment

Diesel engines have long been the generator industry’s workhorse. They are rugged, reliable, and efficient. On the other hand, natural gas generators have become increasingly popular due to their lower emissions and fuel costs.

So, which one is better? We dive into some of the key benefits of each to help you chose which generator is best for your needs.

What Are The Key Differences Between Diesel and Natural Gas Generators?

When deciding which generator is best for your needs, you should consider several key differences between diesel and natural gas generators.

Diesel generators are typically more expensive than natural gas generators but are also more efficient and have a longer lifespan. However, natural gas generators are less expensive to operate but may not be as durable as diesel generators.

But let’s break it down:

Efficiency

Diesel generators are typically 20-40% more efficient than natural gas generators. This is because diesel engines can produce more power with less fuel than natural gas engines.

This means that diesel generators will typically use less fuel than natural gas generators, making them more cost-effective in the long run. In addition, diesel engines can run at a higher capacity for more extended periods without needing to be refueled, making them ideal for continuous operation.

Lifespan

Diesel generators can last up to twice as long as natural gas generators. That is because diesel engines are built to tolerate the high temperatures and pressures associated with prolonged use.

Also, diesel fuel is less likely to deteriorate and clog up the engine than natural gas.

Price

Diesel generators typically cost more upfront than natural gas generators. However, they usually have lower operating costs due to their higher efficiency. On the other hand, natural gas generators are less expensive, but they typically require more maintenance than diesel generators.

Since diesel generators can last up to twice as long as natural gas generators and maintenance costs are lower, diesel generators are a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Maintenance

Natural gas generators typically require more maintenance than diesel generators. This is because natural gas is a more volatile fuel and can clog up the engine if it is not maintained correctly. Therefore, it’s essential to regularly check the fuel filter and spark plugs on a natural gas generator.

Diesel generators also require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. That can include changing the oil, checking the coolant levels, and ensuring the air filter is clean.

However, for both types, it is critical to have them serviced regularly by a qualified technician to ensure that they are operating well and that any potential problems are identified early.

Emissions

But both diesel and natural gas generators emit pollutants when burned, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and mercury. However, natural gas emits lower levels of these pollutants than diesel fuel.

Natural gas generators produce about 30% less carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, particulate matter, and other dangerous exhausts released into the atmosphere than diesel generators.

As a result, natural gas generators are more environmentally friendly than diesel generators. Business owners who are conscious of their environmental impact will likely prefer natural gas.

Comparing Diesel vs. Natural Gas Generators

If you want an efficient and long-lasting generator, a diesel generator is probably the best option. However, a natural gas generator may be a better choice if you are on a more conservative budget.

So, ultimately, deciding which type of generator to buy should be based on your specific needs and requirements.

Which One is Better?

Call our sales department for more information and for a professional analysis of the best generator and setup for your facility or project.

We work with all brands and models to offer customized solutions that fits your needs and budget.

Don’t wait any longer, contact our service department today with questions and to schedule a site visit from one of out sales managers.

Fire Marshalls are Doubling Down on Generator Safety Compliance

June 20, 2022 by Genserve Marketing Leave a Comment

With inspections and audits back in full swing, is your stand-by generator compliant with local, state and federal standards? Contact GenServe today to learn more on how to be in compliance and avoid costly fines.

Business owners have to ask themselves one question: what would happen if a fire marshal showed up unannounced to my facility today?

Industrial generators are subject to NFPA 110 compliance. This means you need to be ready to show the fire marshal all applicable documentation to prove your backup power system is in working properly and regularly maintained. This includes all backup power sources, transfer switch equipment, system controls, supervisory equipment, and accessories that supply electrical power to a facility.

NFPA110 standards cover performance requirements for emergency and standby power systems providing an alternate source of electrical power in buildings and facilities in the event that the normal electrical power source fails. Systems include power sources, transfer equipment, controls, supervisory equipment, and accessory equipment needed to supply electrical power to the selected circuits.

In other words, if you have an emergency power system, NFPA 110 tells you what it should be able to do and how to take care of it. Designers, manufacturers, maintenance professionals, and government authorities all refer to NFPA 110 when installing, commissioning, and inspecting emergency generators.

If a fire marshal shows up unannounced and you are not prepared or failed to maintain the backup power systems you may be subject to large fines.

The lockdowns of 2020 significantly affected many industries and businesses financially. Budgets shifted from maintaining the building’s equipment and generators, to paying for leases and employee salaries, while not producing revenue. Inspectors and fire marshals put inspections and audits on hold as the world faced a pandemic, however since everything started reopening this year, fire marshals are once again doubling down on inspections alarming many building owners and facility managers.

Whether you need maintenance on your current emergency generator or repairs to make sure you are in compliance, GenServe is your backup power specialists. Rather than offer a variety of heavy equipment, we specialize in emergency commercial generators. This means that when you work with us, you are working with specialists who will know exactly how to help you keep your power on in the best way possible.

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Don’t wait any longer, contact our service department today with questions about compliance and to schedule preventative maintenance service.

What is the Difference Between Lead Acid and Nickel-Cadmium (NiCad) Generator Batteries?

June 17, 2022 by Genserve Marketing Leave a Comment

What is the Difference between Lead Acid and Nickel-Cadmium Batteries?

If you have a generator, you need a starter battery. But what kind should you get? NiCd or lead-acid? Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.

Here’s a quick rundown of the differences between these two types of batteries so you can decide which one is right for your generator.

Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are the most common type of battery used in generator systems.

They are also used in cars and trucks. Lead-acid batteries have some advantages and disadvantages.

They are typically less expensive than other types of batteries and have a lifespan. of about 2-3 years. However, lead-acid batteries require more maintenance during that time than other types of batteries, and are not as efficient as nickel-cadmium batteries.

How Do Lead-Acid Batteries Work?

Lead-acid batteries are the oldest type of rechargeable battery. Lead-acid batteries were invented in 1859 by French physicist Gaston Planté and are the forerunners of the modern automobile battery and are still primarily used in vehicles.

Lead-acid batteries contain lead and sulfuric acid. The lead serves as a positive electrode, and sulfuric acid is used as an electrolyte. When lead and sulfuric acid are combined, they create a chemical reaction that produces electricity.

Advantages

Lead-acid batteries have several advantages over nickel-cadmium batteries:

• They are less expensive than nickel-cadmium batteries. However, due to the shorter lifespan, the cost can be higher than a nickel-cadmium battery.

• They are less likely to suffer from self-discharge, meaning they can hold their charge for extended periods (about 3-4% per month).

• They can provide a large amount of power when needed.

• They are easier to dispose of and recycle than nickel-cadmium batteries.

Disadvantages

Lead-acid batteries have some disadvantages when compared to nickel-cadmium batteries. This includes:

• They are heavier than nickel-cadmium batteries.

• They have a shorter life cycle.

• They are more likely to leak acid, which can damage the device.

• They also require regular maintenance, such as topping up the water level and cleaning the terminals.

• They are more sensitive to temperature changes, which can shorten their lifespan.

• They can produce hydrogen gas when charging, which can be explosive if it builds up in a confined space.

• They are not suitable for fast charging.

How Do Nickel-Cadmium Batteries Work?

Nickel-cadmium batteries also work by the process of electrolysis, which is the movement of ions between two electrodes in an electrolyte solution. The positive electrode is made of nickel oxide hydroxide, and the negative electrode is made of cadmium metal. The electrolyte is an alkaline solution.

When the battery is charged, nickel ions migrate from the negative electrode to the positive electrode, and cadmium ions migrate from the positive electrode to the negative electrode. The process is reversed when the battery is discharged, and nickel and cadmium ions migrate back to their respective electrodes.

Advantages

Nickel-cadmium batteries have many advantages over lead-acid batteries, including:

• They are more resistant to temperature extremes, so they can be used in a broader range of environments.

• They have a higher power density, meaning they can store more energy per unit of weight than lead-acid batteries.

• They are less likely to self-discharge, so they can be stored for longer periods without losing their charge.

• They are less harmful to the environment than lead-acid batteries since they do not contain lead.

• They can be charged faster than lead-acid batteries.

• They have a longer life cycle of up to 15-20 years, depending on their environment and use.

• They also have a high discharge rate, meaning they can release energy faster.

Disadvantages

Nickel-cadmium batteries also have some disadvantages:

• They are more expensive than lead-acid batteries. But since they have a longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries.

• They have a higher self-discharge rate.

• They are more harmful to the environment as they contain toxic metals.

Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries are two of the most common types of rechargeable batteries. Both have pros and cons, but which is best for you depends on your specific needs.

So, Which One Is The Better Starter Battery For Your Generator: Lead-Acid Or Nickel-Cadmium Batteries?

There is no easy answer to that. But there are a few key things to remember when deciding which type of battery to get for your generator system. Lead-acid batteries tend to be more affordable, but they also need to be regularly maintained. NiCd batteries are more expensive, but they don’t require maintenance and have a longer lifespan.

In general, NiCd batteries are a better choice for generators used regularly, while lead-acid batteries are a better choice for generators used infrequently.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to what is most important to you. If affordability is key, go with a lead-acid battery. If you want a hassle-free experience, go with a NiCd battery.

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Always follow the battery and generator manufacturers recommendations for battery maintenance and replacement.

Important things to test and document monthly to be in compliance should include: Date and time of battery test, voltage, age, cold cranking amps and outdoor temperature for batteries located outdoors.

Don’t wait any longer, contact our service department today with questions and to schedule preventative maintenance service.

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About GenNx360 Capital Partners

About GenServe

About GenNx360 Capital Partners

About GenServe

About GenNx360 Capital Partners

Why is Preventative Maintenance Important?

Generator Minor Service (Monthly, Quarterly, or Semi-Annual) Inspections and Maintenance Checklist

Generator Major Service (Annual) Inspections and Maintenance Checklist

What is the Difference Between a “Building Load Test” and a “Load Bank Test,” and When To Perform It?

GenServe’s Generator Preventative Maintenance Services

No Matter Your Generator, We Can Service It

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What is NFPA-110?

Who needs NFPA-110?

How To Know if Your Generator is NFPA-110 Compliant?

Utility Outage with Single Generator System – Sequence of Events

Utility Outage with Multiple Generator System – Sequence of Events

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What Are The Key Differences Between Diesel and Natural Gas Generators?

Efficiency

Lifespan

Price

Maintenance

Emissions

Comparing Diesel vs. Natural Gas Generators

Which One is Better?

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What is the Difference between Lead Acid and Nickel-Cadmium Batteries?

Lead-Acid Batteries

How Do Lead-Acid Batteries Work?

Advantages

Disadvantages

How Do Nickel-Cadmium Batteries Work?

Advantages

Disadvantages

So, Which One Is The Better Starter Battery For Your Generator: Lead-Acid Or Nickel-Cadmium Batteries?

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