Generators
Power Outage Checklist for Businesses: Protect Equipment, Data and Sales
Short answer
Make a list of the loads that must stay on, such as tills, computers, networks, fridges and security. Protect IT with a UPS, cover essentials with an inverter or solar battery system, and use a generator with automatic changeover for heavy loads or long outages. Add surge protection and test everything regularly.
Plan it in five steps
- List critical loads and how long they must run.
- Calculate their power (watts) and energy (kWh).
- Choose the right backup layers: UPS, inverter or solar hybrid, generator.
- Install an essential-loads board so only critical circuits are backed up.
- Test monthly and keep a maintenance log.
Backup layers
See the UPS vs inverter vs generator comparison. A common approach is a UPS for computers and network gear, solar plus batteries for lights and fridges, and a generator for large or long outages.
Protect equipment and data
- Surge protection at the board and on sensitive equipment.
- Back up data offsite or to the cloud.
- Set computers and servers to shut down safely when the UPS is low.
During an outage
- Switch off non-essential equipment before power returns to avoid surges.
- Use generators outdoors only, away from windows, with safe fuel storage.
- Keep emergency lighting and a first-aid kit available.
Get a plan
We design backup power for businesses. See generators and solar.
Common questions
How long should my UPS last?
Enough to shut systems down safely or to bridge until a generator starts, often 10 to 30 minutes for IT.
Is a generator or solar better for a shop?
It depends on loads and outage length. Many shops use solar and batteries for essentials and a generator for long outages.
Do I need an essential-loads board?
It is recommended. It limits the backup system to critical circuits and keeps costs down.