The Critical Moment: Starting the Generator
When external power goes out, it is critical for a hotel not just to start the generator, but to manage the load it starts with. It is precisely during the first seconds and minutes that peak inrush currents are formed, which heavily impact the generator's lifespan and fuel consumption.
The Problem
When a generator starts up under the full load of dozens of air conditioners, it leads to:
- Peak starting inrush currents
- Accelerated generator wear and tear
- Excessive fuel consumption
- Voltage instability in the network
The IOTel system allows you to control this critical moment. Moreover, it does so in two different scenarios, depending on your equipment's power architecture.
Scenario 1: IOTel Controllers Are Powered by a UPS
The Optimal Option for Maximum Control
In many hotels, network equipment, servers, and automation systems are connected to Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS). In this configuration, IOTel gains a key advantage.
What Happens When the Grid Power Fails
- The external grid power drops out instantly
- IOTel controllers, the server, and the network continue running on UPS power
- The staff retains full access to software management
- The generator has not started yet
👉 At this exact moment, air conditioners can be shut down centrally BEFORE the generator even starts.
Reaction Time for the Staff
Typically, a UPS ensures server and network operation for 5 to 30 minutes (depending on configuration). This is more than enough time to:
The Result
The generator starts up:
- With minimal initial load
- Free from AC inrush currents
- In the most gentle, safe operating mode
This is the ideal scenario in terms of extending the generator's resource and minimizing fuel costs.
Scenario 2: Startup Simultaneous with the Generator
If the controllers, server, and network equipment do not have backup power, the IOTel system boots up right after the generator starts. This scenario is also fully handled by the solution's logic.
Real Timeline
Sequence of Events:
Key Point: There is Still Time to Reduce the Load
Even in this scenario, air conditioners do not reach full stable operation instantly. Compressors have built-in restart delays, and some equipment hasn't ramped up to maximum power yet.
👉 Once IOTel restores operation, the staff has approximately 3–7 minutes to act via the software:
- Centrally shut down air conditioners
- Relieve the peak load from the generator
- Switch the system to a fuel-saving mode
- Turn consumers back on gradually in stages
Why Both Scenarios Are Safe for the Generator
Scenario 1 (With UPS)
The generator never sees peak loads — they are stripped away before it even cranks up
Scenario 2 (Without UPS)
The peak load is quickly relieved before the generator hits its thermal and fuel consumption limits
Results of Using IOTel with a Generator
What the Hotel Gains:
Additional IOTel Features in Generator Mode
Once operation is stabilized, the system allows you to:
🔄 Phased Activation
Turn on air conditioners in groups with set intervals to completely avoid peak inrush currents
🎯 Priority Management
Ensure comfort in VIP rooms first, then restore power to other areas sequentially
💡 Selective Power Allocation
Keep only essential zones active, effectively saving fuel for the generator
All Management is Done via a Single Server Interface
Why Hotels Choose IOTel for Generator Operations
IOTel is a system designed with real-world operating conditions in mind:
- ✓ Presence or absence of a UPS
- ✓ Generator-powered operation phases
- ✓ Equipment startup delays
- ✓ The human factor and staff response times
IOTel does not require perfect infrastructure — it adapts to yours
Conclusion: IOTel — Control at the Most Critical Moment
✓ UPS is Present
Load is removed BEFORE the generator starts — maximum control and hardware protection
✓ No UPS Present
Load is removed within the first few minutes AFTER startup — still highly effective
In either case, the hotel achieves:
- Control — complete load management via software
- Predictability — absence of chaotic power overloads
- Savings — on fuel and the generator's maintenance resource
- Safety — stable and reliable electrical grid behavior
IOTel Means Load Management at the Critical Moment
Protect your generator and slash your fuel expenses starting today!