Data Center Generator Testing

There are actually two parts to this.

First, there is mechanical testing / preventative maintenance. This includes periodic starting and runup to normal operating temperatures, and such other checks as are normal on fossil-fueled engines (mainlyoil and fuel levels). Frequency for this test should be based on recommendations of the generator manufacturer.

Second, there is functional testing. This would include simulating events that would cause your power system to fail-over from commercial power to your stand-by power system. This might be as simple as cutting power at the main circuit breaker for your facility, but it depends on your system's design. This type of test doesn't need to be conducted as frequently as the mechanical test, but I would suggest at least twice a year. Assuming that you are exercising your entire disaster recovery plan on some sort of regular basis, it would make sense to add the stand-by power functional test to this schedule.