Routine Maintenance Minimizes the Need for Generator Repair
Generators are complex machines that require routine maintenance and repairs. The more attention you pay to your maintenance regimen, the less likely you are to need an emergency generator repair. When it comes to maintaining your generator systems, the following are tasks you don’t want to overlook.
Fuel Storage and Systems
Fuel degrades over time, and you will want to test your stored fuel regularly to ensure that you are not running substandard fuel through the lines. In particular, pay attention to signs of bacterial growth or water intrusion into the system.
Further, make sure to inspect and change clogged air filters as necessary. These typically provide effective use for 200+ hours, but this can be less if the unit is operating in conditions where heavy dust and airborne debris are present.
Generator Engine
Engine failures are a leading cause of generator repair calls. Inspect your engine for signs of wear and tear, including damaged hoses, visible oil/fuel leaks, worn belts, and cracked belts. Additionally, make sure that your air and oil filters are free of debris.
Coolant System
Inspect your radiator fins at least once per month. You should also perform this task following any hailstorms or periods of heavy wind. Damaged fins can decrease airflow into the system and limit the radiator’s ability to cool the generator properly.
You will also want to check your antifreeze levels at least once per week. Your inspection should include checking hoses and water pumps for signs of leaks, cracks in any hoses, and hose clamps that are coming loose. Finally, check to ensure that the block heater is properly plugged into the generator.
Batteries
Inspect your batteries for signs of corrosion and damage. With proper care and maintenance, the typical generator battery will provide reliable operation for around three years. After this point, the battery will have difficulty delivering a sufficient charge.
Promptly replace damaged batteries and those beyond a serviceable lifespan. It is also vital to test battery connections and ensure that the terminals are corrosion-free and that all connections are tightly secured.
Scheduling Generator Repair
It is never advisable to continue operating a generator with known damage. Operating a generator with substandard fuel, leaky hoses, faulty belts, or corroded parts can cause severe damage to the unit. It can also pose a considerable safety hazard to your employees.
When you detect a problem that needs repairing, schedule a service call as soon as possible. You should cease operating the unit until you complete all required repairs. If you don’t do this, you won’t be looking at a generator repair call; you will be calling about a generator replacement, which is a considerably more costly option.
Contact Gen-Tech Power Generation Specialists at (800) 625-8324 to learn more about our generator repair services. Our technicians can help you quickly identify the problem and conduct the necessary repairs so that you can get back to work.