7 Reasons Why Power Generator Maintenance is Important

A diesel generator is a perfect source of power in instances where electric power fails. During thunderstorms, it is not uncommon for different areas to experience standby power system failures which result in financial loss due to downtimes in commercial facilities. With the recently issued tornado watch for the larger part of Wisconsin, now is the perfect time to keep your generator in perfect working condition.

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In this article, we discuss 7 reasons why you should not gamble about maintaining your portable generator, that can deliver adequate starting power for your backup power needs.

1. Preventative maintenance helps catch and repair generator problems as early as possible

Although diesel generators are sturdy, durable, and quite reliable, making sure they undergo preventive maintenance is recommended. Plenty of generators will not immediately manifest symptoms of failure until the generator is unable to run when there is a power outage. Regular preventive maintenance enables the technician to identify problems with your standby generator, through both visual inspections as well as hands-on checking. This helps get hold of problems such as that with the manual battery load tester, internal combustion engine, DC electrical system and resolve them before they get any worse.

2. A well-defined maintenance schedule ensures proper functionality

During routine engine exercise, in addition to visual inspection of the portable generator, the technician ensures to –

• Change the engine oil
• Replace the generator’s air filter
• Check for loose connections
• Ensure balanced coolant mixture, and introduce coolant additives if needed
• Check if the generator supply connections
• Inspect the belts, hoses, lines, connectors, and any other accessories
• Check the control panel as well as the engine
• Clean the exhaust system if the dirt appears excessive

Regularly checking all these aspects ensures that your generator performs optimally at all times.

3.  Generator maintenance prevents carbon monoxide generation and poisoning

A generator that is not regularly maintained is prone to producing carbon monoxide, which is fatal if it is inhaled. During the maintenance process, the technician will ensure that the generator is positioned in such a way that it releases any fumes outdoors rather than indoors.

4. Maintenance tips help increase your generator’s efficiency

Wasps, birds, rats, snakes, and other critters can infest your generator’s housing. Rats and mice are especially notorious for setting up a nest and chewing through the appliance’s wiring. During maintenance, all the parts of your generator such as air filters, air intake system, oil filter, spark plugs, cooling system, battery cables, are checked and cleaned from potentially damaging dirt and debris. They are then tested to ascertain that they are working as intended. These steps are essential for maintaining the quality and performance of The Best Industrial Generators.

5.  Generator maintenance checklist helps prevent fuel tank and fuel filters problems

Generators running on diesel need to have the fuel tank cleaned, and the fuel supply changed at least twice every year. This is because the fuel deteriorates with time, especially when the generator goes for long periods without being operated. Regular maintenance ensures that the fuel system functions flawlessly. When you change fuel filters on time and drain the fuel system as required, the generator can function more efficiently, and the fuel consumption can be maintained at an optimal level.

6.  Preventative maintenance tips ultimately saves you money

Ignoring regular generator maintenance might save you a few bucks today. However, this could lead to costly repairs. In extreme cases, you may have to replace the entire unit.

7. Preventative maintenance prolongs the generator’s lifespan

Unmaintained generators normally have shorter lifespans. As you do not want to constantly be on the lookout for a diesel generator for sale, it only makes sense to take care of your investment. Keeping the generator properly maintained ensures that it runs smoothly for longer.

If you are looking into investing in a generator for your industrial or commerce al facility, Central States Diesel Generators has a solution for you. Apart from stocking different types of generators for sale, we have the necessary knowledge and experience when it comes to maintaining your generator.

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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Maintenance of Heavy-Duty Diesel Engines Generators

How often should I service my portable generator?

A vast majority of new standby generators require their engine oil to be changed after 30 hours of use. Post this, change the oil after every 100-hour use. Of course, it is best to go through the engine manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure the best preventative maintenance including timely fuel filter changes as well as to keep engine parts lubricated.

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How long should I run my diesel generator for maintenance?

To ensure the best preventive maintenance of your standby generator, we recommend running the generator set at full capacity for at least 25-20 minutes every week. Not only will it help the stored fuel heat up, but will also enable the lubricating oil to circulate within the engine. This small yet significant engine exercise will keep your portable generators in the best possible shape for a long time to come.

Generators are essential for providing backup power during unexpected outages, keeping critical systems operational and businesses running smoothly. Whether used in healthcare, manufacturing, special events, or other industries, generators must perform reliably at all times. While preventive maintenance often focuses on tasks like oil changes, fluid sampling, and load testing, keeping your generator clean plays an equally critical role. Let’s explore why regular cleaning should be part of your generator maintenance plan and the potential risks of neglecting this task.

Improved Performance and Efficiency

A generator that’s covered in dirt, debris, and dust is at greater risk of overheating, due to reduced cooling efficiency. However, it’s not just the generator’s exterior that needs attention—air intakes and exhaust systems can easily become blocked, forcing the engine to work harder and diminishing its overall performance.

By regularly cleaning the generator and ensuring it is free of obstructions, you enable it to operate at peak efficiency. This can reduce wear on the engine, improve fuel economy, and lower operational costs over time.

Keeping the Area Around the Generator Free of Debris

Beyond cleaning the generator itself, it’s essential to keep the surrounding area clear. Accumulated debris like leaves, grass, branches, snow, or trash can obstruct airflow to the generator’s cooling system, increasing the risk of overheating. Additionally, debris can become a fire hazard, particularly for diesel and natural gas-powered generators that operate at high temperatures.

Ensure that the generator’s enclosure and the area around it are maintained, especially after storms or during seasons when leaves and vegetation can pile up. Regularly trimming overgrown vegetation and removing any flammable materials helps prevent fire hazards and ensures optimal airflow.

Rodent and Pest Prevention

Generators, particularly those housed outdoors or in enclosures, are susceptible to becoming homes for rodents, insects, and other pests. These creatures can cause extensive damage by chewing through wires, nesting in ventilation systems, or clogging air filters with their nests. In some cases, rodents can even cause electrical shorts by gnawing on cables. Additionally, nesting materials in contact with a hot generator can increase the likelihood of a fire.

To avoid such issues, it’s important to implement preventive measures like sealing gaps in the generator housing, installing rodent deterrents, and conducting regular inspections. Keeping the area clean and free of food sources or hiding spots will make it less appealing for pests to take up residence in or around your generator.

Extended Equipment Life

The cleaner your generator is, both inside and out, the longer it will likely last. Dust, dirt, and grime can trap moisture, potentially damaging sensitive components and accelerating the formation of rust. When debris and pests interfere with the generator’s ventilation or wiring, it can cause malfunctions or catastrophic failure.

By maintaining a clean generator and surrounding environment, you’ll not only prevent unnecessary damage but also extend the equipment’s overall lifespan. This maximizes your return on investment and minimizes unexpected repair costs.

Early Detection of Problems

Keeping your generator clean makes it easier to identify new leaks, worn wiring, wet stacking, or corrosion easier, allowing you to catch potential issues before they become major problems. These problems can be addressed early, saving you from costly repairs or extended downtime in the future.

Best Practices for Keeping Your Generator and Its Environment Clean

• Regular Cleaning Schedule: Create a cleaning schedule based on the generator’s usage and operating environment. Outdoor generators, especially those near wooded or grassy areas, will require more frequent cleaning and inspections.
• Debris-Free Surroundings: Ensure a clear area around the generator. Keep it free of leaves, branches, grass clippings, snow, and other potential obstructions that could affect airflow or pose a fire risk.
• Rodent Prevention: Seal any gaps in the generator housing and place deterrents, if necessary. Regularly inspect for signs of rodent or pest activity, such as droppings or chewed wires.
• Proper Cleaning Tools: Use appropriate cleaning methods, such as compressed air for dust and gentle cleaning agents for grime. Avoid high-pressure water around sensitive electrical components.
• Inspection During Cleaning: Cleanings should also involve inspecting the generator for potential issues like oil leaks, frayed wiring, or other damage.
• Professional Maintenance: Schedule routine maintenance with a certified generator technician who can clean and inspect the generator thoroughly, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

Conclusion

A clean and debris-free generator is crucial for ensuring reliable performance, extending equipment life, and minimizing safety risks like fires or electrical shorts from rodent damage. Incorporating regular cleaning and pest prevention into your generator maintenance plan will help keep it running efficiently and ready to provide backup power whenever needed.

By proactively maintaining a clean generator and its surroundings, you protect your investment and guarantee that your critical systems will stay operational during an outage.

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