Generator Replacement
Emergency power you can count on when the next hurricane hits.
What We Do
Generator replacement is an electrical engineering service that evaluates aging emergency power systems and designs modern, code-compliant replacements for buildings that depend on backup power. Advanced Structural Solutions conducts generator replacement studies and designs new emergency power systems for condos, high-rises, and commercial buildings across South Florida.
South Florida buildings rely on emergency generators for life-safety systems during hurricanes and power outages. Generators have a typical service life of 20-30 years. When they fail during a storm, elevators stop, fire pumps lose pressure, and emergency lighting goes dark. Replacement planning should start well before failure, not after.
Our engineers assess your existing generator condition, calculate current emergency load requirements, specify replacement equipment, and design the installation including fuel systems, sound attenuation, and emissions compliance. We make sure the new system meets current code requirements, not the requirements from when the original was installed.
How We Deliver Results
Existing System Assessment
Evaluate generator condition, run-time history, maintenance records, fuel system condition, and automatic transfer switch operation. Determine remaining useful life and identify deficiencies.
Load Analysis & Sizing
Calculate current emergency load requirements including life-safety systems, elevators, common areas, and any additional loads required by current code. Size the replacement generator with appropriate capacity margin.
Specification & Design
Specify generator equipment, fuel system, transfer switches, sound attenuation, and emissions controls. Design electrical connections, ventilation, and structural support for the new installation.
Installation Oversight
Review contractor submittals, inspect installation work, witness generator startup and load bank testing, and verify automatic transfer switch operation under simulated power failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my building's generator needs replacement?
Signs include frequent failures during testing, difficulty sourcing parts, excessive maintenance costs, failure to carry full emergency load, non-compliance with current emission standards, and age over 25-30 years. If your generator has failed during an actual power outage, replacement should be a priority.
What size generator does my condo building need?
Generator sizing depends on your building's emergency loads: fire pumps, emergency lighting, elevators, stairwell pressurization, fire alarm systems, and any other loads required by code. We perform a detailed load calculation to determine the right size. Oversizing wastes money; undersizing is dangerous.
What is the difference between diesel and natural gas generators for buildings?
Diesel generators are the traditional choice and offer higher power density. Natural gas generators have lower emissions, unlimited fuel supply (connected to utility gas), and lower fuel storage requirements. The right choice depends on your building's location, code requirements, and operational preferences.
How long does generator replacement take?
From engineering study to operational new generator, expect 6-12 months. Engineering and permitting take 2-4 months. Equipment procurement can take 8-16 weeks depending on manufacturer lead times. Installation and commissioning typically take 4-8 weeks.
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