Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about industrial generators, equipment, and working with Mulciber Industries.
What size generator do I need for my facility?
Generator sizing depends on your total electrical load, including startup surges for motors and compressors. A 100kW unit typically covers a small commercial building, while industrial facilities may require 500kW to 2500kW. Contact our team for a load assessment.
What is the difference between standby, prime, and continuous power ratings?
Standby ratings are for emergency backup with limited run hours. Prime ratings are for extended or unlimited run time at variable load. Continuous ratings are for constant base-load power at a fixed output. Most industrial applications require prime-rated units.
What is a 3-phase generator and when do I need one?
A 3-phase generator produces three alternating currents offset by 120 degrees, delivering power more efficiently for heavy industrial loads. You need 3-phase power for large motors, welding equipment, commercial HVAC systems, and most industrial machinery above 10 HP.
Diesel vs natural gas generators — which is better?
Diesel generators offer higher fuel efficiency, greater durability, and lower maintenance costs for heavy-duty applications. Natural gas units produce fewer emissions and suit facilities with an existing gas supply. For remote or mobile applications, diesel is the standard choice.
How much does an industrial diesel generator cost?
Industrial diesel generator pricing ranges from approximately $10,000 for a 15 kW unit to over $250,000 for a 2,000 kW prime-rated system. The final cost depends on engine manufacturer (Perkins, Volvo, John Deere, Cummins), power rating, enclosure type (open or weatherproof), control panel features, and whether the unit is configured for standby or prime power operation. Fuel tank capacity, automatic transfer switch (ATS) integration, and emissions compliance can also affect pricing. Sound-attenuated enclosures add 10–20% to the base cost. For accurate pricing on a specific configuration, contact our sales team with your power requirements and application details. We provide formal quotes within one business day.
What size generator do I need to power a commercial building?
The generator size depends on your facility's total connected electrical load, including startup surge requirements for motors, HVAC systems, and elevators. As a general guide: a small retail space or office (5,000–10,000 sq ft) typically requires 50–100 kW; a mid-size warehouse or manufacturing facility needs 200–500 kW; large industrial plants, hospitals, and data centres often require 800–2,000 kW or parallel generator sets. To size correctly, you need a professional load analysis that accounts for essential vs. non-essential circuits, motor starting currents (which can be 6–8× running load), and future expansion. Single-phase loads under 25 kW can use single-phase generators; anything above should use 3-phase power. Browse our full range of diesel generators or contact us for a sizing consultation.
What is the difference between a standby generator and a prime power generator?
A standby generator is designed for emergency backup — it activates automatically during a power outage and runs at variable load for a limited number of hours per year (typically 200–500 hours). A prime power generator is built for continuous or extended operation as the primary power source, rated for unlimited run hours at variable load. There is also a continuous rating, which covers constant base-load operation at a fixed output 24/7. The key differences are engine duty cycle, cooling system capacity, and fuel consumption optimization. Standby units cost less upfront but are not built for sustained operation. If your site has no utility grid connection — remote mining, oil and gas, or construction — you need prime-rated equipment. Our diesel generator range includes both standby and prime-rated configurations.
How long will a diesel generator run on a full tank of fuel?
Runtime depends on the generator's fuel tank capacity, engine size, and the percentage of rated load being drawn. A typical 100 kW diesel generator with a 500-litre tank consumes approximately 25–30 litres per hour at 75% load, giving roughly 16–20 hours of continuous operation. Larger units (500 kW+) may consume 100–140 litres per hour under load. Fuel efficiency improves when generators run at 50–75% of rated capacity — running below 30% load causes wet stacking, which damages the engine over time. Extended-run base tanks and external bulk fuel systems can be specified for applications requiring 48+ hours of uninterrupted operation. Contact our team for fuel consumption data on specific models.
Can a diesel generator power a hospital or data centre?
Yes. Diesel generators are the industry standard for critical facility backup power in hospitals, data centres, telecommunications, and water treatment plants. These applications typically require Tier IV or mission-critical configurations with redundant systems — N+1 or 2N parallel generator architectures, automatic transfer switches (ATS), and continuous monitoring. Hospital generators must meet electrical code requirements for life safety systems, with transfer times under 10 seconds. Data centres typically specify 2N redundancy with 2,000+ kW capacity per feed. Our industrial diesel generators are available in configurations suitable for critical infrastructure. Contact us to discuss your redundancy and compliance requirements.
What engine brands do you offer in your generators?
Mulciber generators are paired with globally recognised engine manufacturers including Perkins, Volvo Penta, John Deere, Cummins, and MTU (Rolls-Royce Power Systems). Each brand has distinct strengths: Perkins offers proven reliability across the 15–500 kW range with excellent parts availability; Volvo Penta excels in the 200–700 kW segment with low emissions and fuel efficiency; John Deere delivers rugged performance for industrial and agricultural applications; Cummins covers the full power spectrum from 20–3,500 kW; and MTU specialises in high-output units from 500–3,000 kW for data centres and utility-scale applications. All engines are matched to Stamford, Leroy-Somer, or Marathon alternators. Browse our generator lineup to see available configurations.
Do diesel generators require a concrete pad or special foundation?
Yes, for permanent installations. Industrial diesel generators above 50 kW should be mounted on a reinforced concrete pad designed to support the unit's operating weight (which can exceed 5,000 kg for large units) and absorb vibration. The pad should include anti-vibration mounts, proper drainage, and clearance for airflow around the radiator and exhaust. Mobile and trailer-mounted units do not require a permanent foundation but must be placed on level, compacted ground. Indoor installations require additional considerations: exhaust piping to exterior, combustion air supply, fuel line routing, and fire code compliance. Contact our team for site preparation guidelines specific to your unit.
Do you ship generators across North America?
Yes. We deliver to job sites, facilities, and commercial addresses throughout Canada and the United States. Large units ship via flatbed carrier. Delivery timelines depend on the unit and your location — contact us for a freight quote.
How are generators transported?
Smaller units (under 100kW) can ship standard freight. Larger industrial generators ship on flatbed trailers with crane offloading at the destination. All units are secured and protected for transit. We coordinate logistics end to end.
What is the typical lead time for delivery?
In-stock units typically ship within 5-10 business days. Custom configurations or high-demand models may require 4-8 weeks. Contact us for current availability on specific units.
How much does an industrial forklift cost?
Industrial forklift pricing depends on type, capacity, fuel source, and whether the unit is new or refurbished. Electric counterbalance forklifts (3,000–5,000 lb capacity) typically range from $20,000–$40,000. Internal combustion (diesel/LPG) counterbalance units in the 5,000–10,000 lb range run $25,000–$60,000. Reach trucks for narrow-aisle warehouse operations start around $30,000. Heavy-capacity units (15,000–36,000 lb) for lumber yards, steel mills, and container handling can exceed $100,000. Total cost of ownership should factor in maintenance, fuel or battery costs, and tire replacement. We offer both new and refurbished forklifts — browse our inventory or request a quote for current pricing.
What is the difference between a counterbalance and a reach truck forklift?
A counterbalance forklift uses a heavy counterweight at the rear of the chassis to offset the load on the forks — it is the most common type, suitable for loading docks, outdoor yards, and general material handling. A reach truck has a smaller footprint with extending fork carriage that reaches forward into racking, designed specifically for narrow-aisle warehouse work where counterbalance units cannot operate. Reach trucks typically offer higher lift heights (up to 12 metres) but lower load capacities and are electric-only. If your operation involves dock work, truck loading, and outdoor material handling, you need a counterbalance. If you work in high-density racking with aisles under 3 metres, a reach truck is the right choice. See our forklift and warehouse equipment collections.
Should I rent or buy a forklift?
The decision depends on utilisation rate, duration of need, and capital allocation. Buying makes sense for operations using forklifts daily over multiple years — the unit pays for itself within 2–3 years of consistent use compared to rental costs. Renting is better for seasonal peaks, short-term projects (under 12 months), or when you need a specialised unit (e.g., rough terrain, high capacity) for a specific job. Rental also eliminates maintenance liability and provides flexibility to scale equipment up or down. Many operators use a mixed fleet — owned units for baseline operations and rental units for surge capacity. We offer both purchase and rental options. Contact us for a cost comparison tailored to your usage.
What equipment does Mulciber offer for rent?
We offer rental programmes for diesel generators, forklifts, and select heavy equipment. Generator rentals cover standby backup for planned outages, emergency power during grid failures, and temporary power for construction sites and events — available in sizes from 30 kW to 1,000 kW. Forklift rentals include counterbalance, reach truck, and electric pallet jack configurations. Rental terms are flexible: daily, weekly, monthly, or long-term agreements with maintenance included. All rental units are inspected, serviced, and load-tested before delivery. Visit our equipment rentals page for current availability or contact us for a rental quote.
How does equipment rental pricing work?
Rental pricing is based on equipment type, rental duration, and delivery requirements. Longer rental terms reduce the effective daily rate — monthly rentals typically cost 40–60% less per day than daily rates. Generator rentals are priced by kW output and duration. Forklift rentals factor in capacity, fuel type, and attachment requirements. All rentals include standard maintenance; fuel, operator, and insurance are typically the renter's responsibility unless otherwise agreed. Delivery and pickup are quoted separately based on distance. We provide formal rental quotes within one business day — contact our team with your equipment needs, site location, and estimated rental period.
Do you deliver rental equipment to job sites?
Yes — we deliver generators, excavators, loaders, and forklifts directly to your job site across Canada and the US. Delivery is handled via flatbed carrier for large generators and enclosed transport for forklifts and smaller equipment. We coordinate crane offloading for units exceeding standard dock height. Delivery timelines depend on your location and equipment availability — most in-stock units can be on-site within 3–5 business days. Emergency generator rentals for power outages may be available within 24–48 hours depending on proximity. Contact us for delivery scheduling and freight quotes.
What warranty comes with your generators?
Warranty terms vary by manufacturer and model. Most new diesel generators include a 1-2 year comprehensive warranty covering the engine, alternator, and control system. Extended warranty options are available at purchase. Contact us for specific warranty details on any unit.
Do you offer installation and commissioning services?
Yes. We can coordinate professional installation and commissioning for any generator we sell. This includes electrical hookup, fuel system connection, load bank testing, and control system programming. Installation scope and cost depend on your site requirements.
What maintenance does a diesel generator require?
Routine maintenance includes oil and filter changes every 250-500 hours, coolant system checks, fuel filter replacement, battery testing, and annual load bank testing. Following the manufacturer maintenance schedule is critical for warranty coverage and reliability.
What is wet stacking and how do I prevent it?
Wet stacking occurs when a diesel generator runs consistently below 30% of its rated load, causing unburned fuel and carbon to accumulate in the exhaust system, cylinder walls, and turbocharger. Symptoms include black exhaust smoke, fuel dripping from exhaust joints, and reduced engine performance. Prolonged wet stacking damages injectors, turbochargers, and exhaust valves and can void your warranty. Prevention is straightforward: size your generator correctly so it operates at 50–75% load during normal use, and run a load bank test quarterly if the unit operates at light load. If wet stacking has already occurred, a load bank test at full rated output for 2–4 hours will burn off accumulated deposits. Our service team can schedule load bank testing for any generator in our lineup.
How often should a diesel generator be serviced?
Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule — intervals are based on run hours, not calendar time. As a general guideline: oil and filter changes every 250–500 hours; fuel filter replacement every 500 hours; coolant system inspection every 1,000 hours; air filter replacement as indicated by the restriction gauge; battery testing monthly; and comprehensive annual service including valve adjustment, injector inspection, and load bank testing. Generators used for standby backup should be exercised weekly for 30 minutes under load to keep seals lubricated and batteries charged. Keeping detailed maintenance logs is required for warranty claims and extends the useful life of the engine significantly — well-maintained diesel generators can operate for 20,000–30,000 hours before major overhaul.
Do you sell replacement parts and filters?
Yes. We supply genuine OEM replacement parts and filters for all generators and equipment in our lineup, including engine oil filters, fuel filters, air filters, belts, coolant hoses, batteries, and control panel components. Parts availability depends on the manufacturer — Perkins, Volvo, John Deere, Cummins, and MTU parts are stocked or available on short lead times. For equipment under warranty, replacement parts used during authorised service are covered by the manufacturer's warranty terms. Contact our parts team with your unit's model and serial number for pricing and availability.
Where is Mulciber Industries located?
Our operations are based in Ontario, Canada. We serve customers across North America — from local facilities in the Ottawa-Kingston-Cornwall corridor to industrial sites throughout Canada and the United States.
How do I request a quote?
Contact us through our website contact form, call us directly, or email our sales team. Provide your power requirements (kW), intended application, and site location for the fastest response. We typically respond within one business day.
Do you offer equipment rentals?
Yes. We offer generator rentals for construction projects, emergency backup, planned outages, and events. Rental units are available in various sizes with flexible terms. Visit our equipment rentals page or contact us for availability and rates.
What industries does Mulciber serve?
Mulciber supplies industrial equipment to construction, mining, oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture, telecommunications, healthcare, data centre, and event management operations across North America. Our diesel generators power remote sites, standby backup systems, and prime power applications. Forklifts and warehouse equipment serve logistics, distribution, and manufacturing facilities. Excavators, loaders, and mobile crushers support construction, demolition, and aggregate processing. We work with facility managers, procurement teams, fleet operators, and project managers who need reliable, heavy-duty equipment backed by technical support. Browse our full product range or contact us to discuss your application.
Can I finance equipment purchases through Mulciber?
Contact our sales team to discuss financing and leasing options for equipment purchases. We work with financing partners to offer flexible payment structures for qualifying buyers — including lease-to-own, capital lease, and operating lease arrangements. Financing terms depend on the equipment type, purchase value, and credit qualification. For large fleet purchases or multi-unit orders, we can structure custom payment plans. Reach out to our team with your equipment requirements and we will provide financing options alongside your equipment quote.