Essential Generator Maintenance as the Leaves Start to Fall
The weather is cooling off across much of the country, and now is the best time to perform autumn maintenance on your generator systems. Doing so now before the snows start to fall will make it easier and ensure that your generator is ready to go if the power should fail.
Clear the Site & Clean the Generator
Clear away any leaves, dirt, and other debris that is around your standby generator system. If it’s enclosed within your facility, make sure that access to the generator is not impeded by equipment, inventory, etc. Not only is debris a potential fire hazard that can impede the flow of air through your filters, but it can also make it more difficult to service your system in the event of a component failure.
Likewise, it would be best if you also cleared away any oil or fuel leaks. In the event that you do see oil and/or fuel on the ground around the generator, be sure to schedule a thorough inspection with a standby generator specialist. These leaks can not only cost you money; they can pollute the site and pose a considerable fire hazard.
Do a Test Run
If you haven’t turned your generator on in a while, now is the right time to cycle it up. In fact, you should do this at least every few months throughout the year. When you conduct your test, be sure to make sure that the generator has sufficient oil and clear filters before you conduct your test.
Keep your eyes, ears, and nose open for signs of trouble during the test. Note any noises, smells, or noticeable damage coming from your generator. If you detect damage, schedule an inspection with a certified generator specialist before using the generator again.
Prep It for Cold Weather
All generators require special handling in cold weather conditions. Make sure to understand the specific needs of your system and the manufacturer’s recommendations. In particular, if your generator is located in an area with dramatic temperature variances, you may want to install a cold-weather kit. These kits contain battery heaters, oil heaters, block heaters, etc. that can keep your system operating within the required parameters. This can help protect components from damage and ensure operational viability.
Test It After Use
Wildfires in the west. Floods in the south. Snows in the north. 2020 is putting a lot of power generators into action across the country. If you own one of the many generator sets that have been switched on this past month, be sure to inspect your system afterward and promptly perform any necessary repairs. It is the best way to ensure that your system is ready to go the next time Mother Nature throws a tantrum.
The Gen-Tech Power Generation Specialists team is happy to assist you with your fall standby generator maintenance needs. We encourage you to contact us at (800) 625-8324 for more about our services and to schedule a service appointment with our certified generator specialists.