Backup generators are essential for business continuity, especially in data centres, financial institutions, hospitals, and telecom networks. But simply installing a generator isn't enough — you must be sure it will perform when it matters most.
That's where routine load bank testing comes in. This controlled process simulates real power demand, verifying that your generator — and every component in the chain — will work under real-world load conditions.
Generators that are only started occasionally — or run with no load — often develop issues such as:
Routine load testing burns off deposits, keeps internal components warm and efficient, and reveals potential failures before an emergency strikes.
It's not enough to start your generator once a month and check that it runs. Without applying a real load, you can't be sure the system will function appropriately under stress.
Load banks apply 20–100% of a generator's rated load, simulating actual demand and allowing:
Portable load banks are commonly used for commissioning tests or periodic rentals. However, more organizations are investing in fixed-load bank infrastructure for regular, on-site testing. This allows:
In many cases, a fixed load bank can even be used as a ballast load, keeping the engine in a healthy operating range when live demand is low.
Installing a load bank during the initial generator setup is much more cost-effective than retrofitting later. Strategic placement — such as between the radiator and acoustic splitter — takes advantage of existing airflow for cooling and reduces fuel use.
When retrofitting, load banks can be installed:
Systems can range from 5kW to 2MW, depending on the application.
While Foxfab does not sell or rent load banks, we manufacture Load Bank Connection Cabinets, which are critical to safe, reliable testing.
Our cabinets are:
Incorporating a Foxfab cabinet into your generator installation makes testing easier — and dramatically improves long-term reliability.
For years, most load testing only happened during commissioning — often with rented load banks brought in by contractors. Fortunately, that's changing.
Today, many major data centres, telecoms, and financial institutions are investing in their portable or fixed load bank infrastructure, making regular testing part of their power continuity strategy.
It's a smart move. If you've invested in a standby generator but never tested it, you're betting on reliability without proof.
Routine load bank testing is no longer optional—it's essential. Foxfab makes that process smoother with high-performance connection solutions that make it safer, faster, and easier to test your systems on a schedule.
📩 Want to learn more?
A division of Nova Pole International Inc.
