What Regular Maintenance Should be Done to Your Generator?
The number of power outages and the average duration without power have both been steadily increasing in the United States. Different factors contribute to outages, such as weather and utility practices, but even a few hours of electricity can be detrimental to hospitals, schools, and businesses. This has led more companies to look at generator installations.
A standby generator guarantees an uninterrupted source of power as long as it is working properly. But neglecting upkeep on the machine increases the chances that you will have problems with it when an emergency happens.
The good news is that with regular maintenance, you can ensure both reliability and peak performance during operation. It also will help extend the life of your generator.
This article covers some of the basic generator servicing steps to perform and how often to carry out each. Keep reading to find out how you can make sure your generator is ready for the unexpected.
Examine External Conditions
Regularly inspecting the generator can catch a lot of common problems. Look for cracks, leaks, and any signs of unusual wear and tear.
Make sure the outside of the generator is free of any dirt or debris, especially near the exhaust intake vents. This could clog the free flow of air and cause serious problems with your generator.
Test the Battery
Especially when generators have been left dormant for months, batteries can begin to lose their power. Harsh conditions, including extreme cold, can exacerbate these issues.
Also, charging cables and fluid hoses can begin to deteriorate. Have a professional come out and run a startup test to ensure the battery is charged. During maintenance, they will look for corrosion on the battery, as well as loose connections.
Often an app is available for you to check the power levels of the battery yourself.
If it is failing to hold a charge, it may need to be replaced, or it could be a sign of the motor failing to recharge when it is running.
Check the Fluids
Generators rely on a range of fluids to run. Besides fuel, they need coolants to make sure the engine components do not run too hot and oil for lubricating various parts. Checking the fluid levels in your generator can go a long way to making sure your generator does not encounter any problems.
Make sure the fluids are clean and free of contaminants. If levels are low, fill them to the appropriate levels. If they are unusually low, check for signs of potential leaks.
How often you do fluid checks depends on the type of generator you have and how often you use it. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure oil and filters and clean and performing their desired functions. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, call a professional.
Perform Start-Up Checks
One of the easiest things you can do to ensure your generator is functioning well is to start it up on a regular basis. Take a look at the control panel on the generator first. This is a simple way to check for any immediate problems before starting it up.
Once it is up and running, check your generator for any visible signs of issues. These include things like fluid leaks, smoke, or unusual noises.
Frequently running the generator also will get rid of “wet stacking.” This is a buildup of unburned fuel and carbon deposits in the exhaust system. If you have not run your generator for a long time, it may smoke at first startup due to this wet stacking accumulation.
Perform a Load Test
About once a year you should perform a load bank test. This allows you to simulate the load of an electrical system and the output of the generator. The test will show whether it is producing power and maintaining voltage as it should.
Electricians perform these in different ways. For instance, they may test at a 25 percent load for 30 minutes, then increase by increments of 25 percent for similar durations. (Although 100 percent load is usually not tested, since it can put undue strain on your generator.)
This also produces a report that contains specific information about the generator’s functions and status. In addition to voltage and amperage, the report might contain feedback about oil levels and exhaust temperature. Note that this test should be performed by a trained technician.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
One of the most important things you can do to ensure your generator is functioning properly is to schedule regular maintenance with a trained technician. Besides performing generator installations, they can do checkups and generator repairs as needed.
This allows a professional to check for any problems with the machine. It can help you catch minor problems before they become major ones.
This has the added benefit of combining maintenance with regular upkeep. For instance, technicians can change the oil in the machine or replace the oil and fuel filters (if needed) while doing other checks.
A good rule of thumb is to schedule a professional inspection every six months or per 400 hours of run time. However, myriad factors can impact how often inspections should be carried out.
Environment is one factor. Extreme cold, and if you live in a coastal area, exposure to salt can cause problems for your generator. Likewise, regular contact with contaminants, including dust, might warrant more frequent maintenance checks.
Look for a technician that has the proper training and expertise to work on your generator, but also look for experience. Electricians with a lot of real-world knowledge can pick up on subtle signs of mechanical or technical issues with your generator.
Find Generator Installations and Maintenance Near You
Now that you know some generator maintenance tips, you can get your generator running well for longer. With professional upkeep, you will have the peace of mind that your generator is in optimum operating condition when you need it.
At New London Electric, we treat your home like it is our own. Our team of skilled technicians off generator installations, repairs, and maintenance. Reach out to us today to learn more or to schedule service.
