When it comes to installing a commercial generator, there’s a lot more involved than just setting it in place. It takes some serious equipment to get the job done right, especially with those big, heavy units. Let’s take a closer look at the kinds of industrial equipment you might see on-site during an installation and how each piece plays a role in making everything run smoothly.
1. Cranes
Cranes are the real heavy lifters of generator installation. These machines are essential when it comes to moving a large commercial generator into place, especially since they can weigh several tons. Cranes can lift the generator over obstacles like buildings and lower it precisely onto its foundation. Depending on the setup, you might see anything from a mobile crane to a huge tower crane if the generator needs to go up high.
Corinne Rodriguez, Duthie Power Services Sales Manager featured in the video above, explains, “To start, you’re going to need a way to offload the equipment itself. Whether it’s your generator, your automatic transfer switch, or any associated accessories, you’re either going to need a forklift or a crane to offload them onto the installation site.”
Example: If you’re installing a generator on the roof of an office building in the middle of the city, you’ll probably need a tall tower crane to get it up there.
2. Forklifts
For smaller but still heavy components, forklifts are the go-to. They’re perfect for moving things like fuel tanks, electrical cables, and switches around the site. While a crane handles the big lift, forklifts take care of moving parts in tighter areas and getting everything in just the right spot.
Corinne expands, “If it’s a smaller unit and we can use a forklift instead of a crane, then we’re going to do that. Also, if we can do something during off hours that will help cut the cost and mitigate safety concerns, then we’re also going to do that.”
Example: Picture a forklift maneuvering around a tight warehouse to carefully deliver smaller parts to the final installation point.
3. Boom Trucks
Boom trucks are the multitaskers of the group. They’re part truck, part crane, and ideal for installations where you need to lift a generator over a fence or into a hard-to-reach space. The hydraulic arm (or “boom”) extends and does the lifting, but because it’s mounted on a truck, it can easily move around.
Example: If you’re dealing with a generator installation behind a tall building or wall, a boom truck can reach over and set the generator down right where it needs to be.
4. Excavators
Sometimes you need to do some digging before the generator can go in. That’s where excavators come into play. Whether you’re digging a trench for electrical cables or creating space for an underground fuel tank, these machines are efficient and precise.
Example: If you’re installing fuel lines or burying cables underground, you’ll see an excavator on-site, getting the groundwork done before the generator arrives.
5. Concrete Mixers
A solid foundation is crucial, especially with something as heavy as a commercial generator. That’s why concrete mixers are often part of the installation process. They’re used to mix and pour the concrete pad that the generator will sit on, ensuring it has a stable and secure foundation that can handle the weight and any vibrations from the generator.
Example: Imagine the concrete pad being poured for a generator at a large distribution center—sturdy enough to hold everything steady even when the generator is running at full power.
6. Transport Trucks
Before you can even think about installing the generator, it has to get to the site. That’s where heavy-duty transport trucks come in. These trucks haul the generator from the manufacturer to the installation location, and because generators are often oversized, the trucks are specially equipped to handle the load.
Example: A flatbed truck, often with an escort for safety, might transport the generator hundreds of miles before it finally arrives at its destination.
7. Air Compressors
For all the little things that need tightening and securing, air compressors are a must-have. They power the pneumatic tools—like drills and impact wrenches—that help bolt everything together.
Example: When it’s time to fasten the generator’s housing or secure its frame to the foundation, air compressors keep the tools running smoothly to get everything locked into place.
8. Utility Trailers
Finally, there’s always a need for extra storage and transport on-site, and utility trailers fill that role perfectly. They’re used to carry tools, cables, and other small parts, making sure everything is organized and easily accessible when needed.
Example: On a rural job site, a utility trailer might be packed with extra cabling, grounding rods, and other supplies, ready to go whenever they’re needed. At an urban site, you will need to consider how your work affects traffic and people in the area. As Corinne explains, “You need special permits for big machines. For a lot of our new equipment installations, we need to shut down a major Street or a Boulevard to set up a crane so a permit and careful planning are necessary.”
Wrapping It Up
Every commercial generator installation has unique considerations that will guide your decisions about which big machines are needed. Corinne adds, “In San Diego, we did a great custom generator installation in an underground parking garage which required some creative thinking for our team, but we pulled it off efficiently and, most importantly, safely. Big installation machines are always going to add more time and they’re going to add more costs to your job; however, it’s worth it if we’re making sure that this is going to fit the customer’s needs and we’ll always work with a customer.”
So, when it comes to installing a commercial generator, there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes than you might think. From cranes hoisting the generator into place to forklifts zipping around with smaller parts, every piece of equipment has its job to do. And with the right tools on-site, the whole process can be smooth, efficient, and safe—ensuring your generator is installed properly and ready to keep your business powered.
If you’re considering adding a commercial generator to your business, request a quote through our website and our expert Sales Engineers will help guide you through the process.
