Do I Need a Load Bank for My Generator? 

If you’re running a generator - whether for backup power, site operations, or temporary events - you’ve probably heard the term ‘load bank’. But what is it, and do you really need one? 

A load bank is a device that simulates electrical loads to test and exercise power sources like generators and UPS systems. It safely draws power from the generator, allowing you to verify performance under controlled conditions. 

Think of it as a treadmill for your generator - it helps keep the engine healthy, even when it’s not powering real-world equipment. 

Here are the most common reasons UK and Irish businesses use load banks: 

Diesel generators operating under light or inconsistent loads can suffer from wet stacking - a build-up of unburnt fuel in the exhaust system. This can lead to: 

• Reduced efficiency 
• Increased emissions 
• Engine damage over time

Using a load bank periodically helps burn off excess fuel and maintain proper operating temperature. 

Load banks allow you to: 

• Confirm your generator can deliver its rated kW output 
• Test voltage and frequency stability 
• Validate switchgear and battery discharge systems
 

This is especially important for critical infrastructure like hospitals, data centres, and utilities, where compliance and reliability are non-negotiable. 

Before deploying a generator, especially in rental or standby applications, load bank testing ensures: 

• The unit is properly sized for your needs 
• All components are functioning correctly 
• There are no hidden faults or performance issues 

It’s a key part of commissioning and ongoing preventative maintenance. 

If your generator is: 

• Running at or near full load regularly 
• Monitored with advanced diagnostics 
• Used in short-term or low-risk applications 


…then a load bank may not be essential. But even in these cases, periodic testing is still recommended to catch issues early. 

Finning offers a wide range of resistive and reactive load banks, from 100 kW to 5,000 kW, with voltage options from 208V to 13,800V. Whether you need trailer-mounted units for site mobility or fixed installations for long-term testing, we’ve got you covered. 

Our team can assist with: 

• Setup and commissioning 
• Maintenance and monitoring 
• Site preparation and transformer supply 

If your generator is critical to your operations, a load bank isn’t just a nice-to-have - it’s a smart investment in reliability, efficiency, and peace of mind.