How often should you exercise an emergency generator under full load?

Exercising an emergency generator under full load is essential to ensure its reliability and functionality during an emergency. Running the generator at full load not only verifies that it operates correctly but also helps to identify any potential issues, such as fuel system problems or cooling deficiencies, that might arise when the generator is called upon to function in a critical situation.

The recommended frequency of exercising an emergency generator is once a month, and the duration should be at least 30 minutes. This practice allows the generator to warm up, engage all systems, and mimic operational expectations during a power outage. By running the generator monthly, any degradation or malfunction can be spotted early, and necessary maintenance can be arranged promptly.

In summary, monthly testing for a period of 30 minutes is optimal to ensure preparedness and reliability, making this choice the correct answer.