Tools and equipment

Avoid power cuts with ECOGEN generators — top purchasing, setup and maintenance tips

Ecogen Generators with ATS BOX from Autoworld Zambia How frustrating is it when you are in the middle of watching your favourite football game or soap opera and BANG! Total blackout and powercut! We all dread load shedding.

Have you heard of an ATS unit?

This month's special is 15% off (from 9th - 15th April ) ECOGEN generators that come with an ATS unit (Auto Transfer Switch). This switch will automatically change the power supply from your main supply (ZESCO), to the your backup generator in just a few seconds. So, with a backup ECOGEN generator and ATS unit, you can count to 10 and you’re back to watching your match - you’d have to be having a real bad day to miss a goal in those few seconds!

And, when ZESCO’s main power supply returns, don’t you worry about having to get up - the generator will automatically switch back, saving you from burning that fuel.

*Please note that only certain Ecogen models are compatible with the ATS unit.

How much will it cost you?

ECOGEN generator prices start from K1,565. For the price of K650 the ATS unit is yours and our sales staff will refer you to an electrician who can guide you on how to connect your new generator and ATS unit (for a minimal fee).

Top tips on purchasing and setting up a generator

  1. Know how much power output you need. To estimate this, most electrical appliances indicate how much power is needed to run them. Since this information is key to purchasing the right generator, it is advisable to have an electrician help you with this. If you need help, visit one of our showrooms. We’ll talk you through everything and refer you to an electrician who can help with these services for a minimal charge.

  2. Always choose a generator that has a slightly higher output than your requirements. This will allow your generator to operate at a cooler temperature and never at maximum capacity. If you overwork your generator in this way you will negatively affect its lifespan as a result of overheating. In a few cases regulators and electrical components can burn out.

  3. Ensure your generator is placed on a flat surface. This is important so that oil is levelled and all engine parts are lubricated. This will avoid engine damage.

  4. Ensure your generator is earthed. This will avoid power surges or lightning strikes (have an electrician carry out this work).

Top tips on maintenance

  1. Check oil and water (where applicable) at least once a month and maintain a service history. Every 100 hours of operation, the generator will need an oil change.

  2. Ensure you check your fuel levels regularly. This will help avoid airlocks (on diesel models) and power fluctuations that can destroy electrical appliances. When fuel runs out the engine revs will be irregular. This constant fluctuation affects the output power of the generator, in turn affecting the power being supplied to your electric appliances.

  3. We  offer an extensive range of ECOGEN back up parts. These include all service filters and electrical components that may be required to keep your generator working in good order.

Buy now — 15% off between 9th and 15th of April 2015

We trust this information has been a great help. If you have any more questions just ask via the comments below or reach us on Twitter and Facebook. If you visit our showrooms you’ll be able to view the Ecogen generators and talk to our expert team for further guidance. Don’t miss out on the 15% discount - visit us before 15th April.

April 2015 offer ECOGEN generators