Homeowners and facility managers often call during the first outage when the generator runs but occupied spaces stay dark for half a minute. That gap may match programmed crank time, utility disconnect confirmation, or load shed sequencing.
Garrett Mechanical documents transfer behavior during electrical service and ties findings to coastal generator readiness checklists already in use on Southeast properties.
Programmed delays versus faults
Engine controllers may require several seconds of stable speed before the transfer closes. Utility-side sensing can add time while the switch confirms the blackout is real rather than a momentary blink.
A delay that matches manufacturer literature differs from a transfer that never closes or chatters open and closed. Video of the event with a timestamp helps separate normal timing from worn contacts.
Manufacturer bulletins sometimes change default delay windows; verify against the installed firmware revision.
What occupants experience during the gap
LED fixtures may appear off entirely until voltage stabilizes. Elevators and fire-alarm auxiliaries may log faults that clear once standby power is solid.
Recording which circuits are on emergency versus delayed shed explains why one wing lights before another without indicating two separate failures.
Occupant education sheets reduce repeat calls when the delay is intentional and documented.
Load shed and add-second steps
Some designs energize only critical branches first, then close additional steps after voltage recovers. HVAC may sit on step two while lighting and communications pick up on step one.
Panel labeling after remodels should show which breakers move with each step. Unlabeled additions are covered in the panel labeling article in this same batch and in shoreline panel storm stride notes.
Fire alarm supervisory signals during delay may require AHJ notification even when standby power is imminent.
Battery and control power during crank
Weak starter batteries extend crank time and can make a normal delay feel endless. Charger output should be verified during maintenance, not only at install.
Control transformers fed from utility may drop out before transfer, which can reset timers on some controllers. We note whether control power is utility-only or fed from the generator bus.
Step-two HVAC closing while elevators remain on step one is a common design that confuses first-time witnesses.
Testing that proves timing
A supervised outage test should record utility loss time, first crank, transfer close, and each add-step close. Without that log, the next storm repeats the same phone call.
Exercise frequency recommendations appear in exercise log guidance. Pair tests with fuel and battery entries on the same sheet.
Float voltage on batteries below specification belongs on the same work order as transfer timing complaints.
When delay settings should change
Utility recloser coordination or medical occupancy rules may justify reprogramming within manufacturer limits. Changes belong in writing with who approved shorter or longer gaps.
We do not shorten delays to satisfy impatience when doing so violates engine protection or local authority having jurisdiction expectations.
Utility blink counts above utility literature may justify field adjustment after engineering review.
What to report on a service call
Describe whether the generator cranked, how long lights were out, and whether any loads never returned. Error codes from the controller photo accelerate diagnosis.
Reach (904) 822-3339 or contact for transfer troubleshooting ahead of named storm weeks.
Written settings snapshots after any change protect the next owner from guessing what was modified.
Documentation that survives staff turnover
Southeast coastal sites share storm calendars that compress both utility make-ready and generator exercise windows into the same weeks. Treating electrical readiness as a single plan across sizing, transfer timing, and fuel reduces conflicting advice from separate vendors.
Garrett Mechanical documents storm electrical work so facility leads can compare year-over-year test values instead of relying on memory after staff turnover. Written closeout belongs beside permits, insurance packets, and landlord reporting folders.
Browse the knowledge base, coverage map, and facilities vendor management resources when planning multi-site consistency. Call (904) 822-3339 or submit a service request when measured values—not assumptions—should drive the next decision.
Measured field notes from prior visits should travel with the property when ownership changes. Screenshots of controller settings and labeled panel photos reduce repeat discovery fees on the next call.
Measured field notes from prior visits should travel with the property when ownership changes. Screenshots of controller settings and labeled panel photos reduce repeat discovery fees on the next call.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. It is not professional advice, a quote, or a service agreement. Conditions at your home or property may differ; contact a qualified professional for an on-site evaluation before making repair, safety, or spending decisions.