What is a "Sentinel Mate" or "Large Sentinel"?

Sentinel Mates and Large Sentinels are battery back-up power units. The batteries store power for use when there is a grid electric power failure or blackout. In the event of a blackout a Sentinel Mate or Large Sentinel will automatically use its battery power to supply the loads connected to it. Once the blackout is over the Sentinel Mate or Large Sentinel will automatically recharge its batteries and standby for the next grid electric blackout.

How is a Sentinel Mate or Large Sentinel different than a Generator?

Sentinel Mates and Large Sentinels store power in its batteries. 

A generator uses a motor, fueled by gas, propane or other fuel to power a generator.

The advantages of a Sentinel Mate or Large Sentinel is it has no moving parts, no fuel storage requirements, works automatically, silent, maintenance free and is much cheaper to operate than a generator.

How is a Sentinel different from a UPS?

As its name implies an Un-interruptable Power Supplies or UPS means that even if the grid goes down the load will see no interruption in the flow of power. In a UPS, power always flows from the grid, into the batteries, into an inverter and then into the load connected to it. 

In a Sentinel Mate or Large Sentinel, power usually flows from the grid electric supply directly into the loads attached to it and the Sentinel uses small amounts of power to keep its batteries charged.

When there is a blackout the Sentinel detects it and switches the loads so that they are connected to the inverter and batteries instead of the gird. This leads to a small 16 millisecond blip in the supply of power to the loads which is short enough not to affect most household or office appliances but too long to be acceptable for really sensitive electronic equipment like computer servers.

Will a Large Sentinel back up my whole office/house?

Yes it is possible to backup and entire office or home using a Large Sentinel, but this is not typically done. As with generators, Sentinels are usually only sized to provide power to essential loads.

What do I have to do to operate the Sentinel Mate or Large Sentinel?

Nothing. The Sentinel Mate and Large Sentinel are completely automatic backup power systems that do not require any user input. They work even if you are not home. 

What are the service requirements for a Sentinel Mate or Large Sentinel?

The Sentinel Mate and Large Sentinel requires no regular maintenance. It is recommended that the unit be tested once every six months to ensure that it is still functioning properly.

Can a Sentinel Mate be mounted outside?

No. The Sentinel Mates are strictly for indoor use and should not be installed in any location where they may be exposed to the elements.

Can a Large Sentinel be installed outside?

Yes Large Sentinels are designed for Outdoor or Indoor locations. In fact due to their  weight outdoor installation is likely more suitable.

Renewable Energy Source Questions

Can I get all of my energy from a renewable energy source?

Yes. It is possible to meet all of your energy needs through a renewable energy source. You will need to determine your usage profile, load profile and site conditions which will dictate how much solar photovoltaic cell and/or wind will be necessary to supply your alternative energy source power.

Do I have to supply all of my power with wind or solar photovoltaic cell?

No. It is much more common to remain on- grid and supply only a portion of your required power through a renewable energy source.

Are there restrictions on solar photovoltaic cell and wind turbines?

Yes. Always consult with your LDC Local Distribution Company and your municipality before proceeding with an alternative energy source project.