Did you know that the market expects a compound annual growth rate of 5.13% for generators? Plenty of organizations and homeowners use generators in case of a power outage. Generator technology is also more advanced due to our reliance on power.
However, that doesn’t mean our generators are immune to malfunction and deterioration. If you want to make the most out of your generators, you need regular maintenance. Read on and learn how to use generator maintenance services.
1. Routine General Inspection
Proper maintenance is necessary for any internal combustion. Contaminants forced through the engine cause an engine blow by. Perform a routine inspection at least once a month and change oils after a 100-hour use.
The diesel generator, fuel system, and engine need close monitoring for mechanical problems. You can get a service engineer to check the exhaust and DC electrical systems for issues.
2. Lubrication Service
Inspect the engine oil level to ensure a trouble-free operation. The oil protects the parts and stress points of your engine when running. Check the oil level with a dipstick when not in use.
Turn off the engine and let the oil drain back into the crankcase. Follow the suggested API oil classification and viscosity of the engine manufacturer. Check the instructions for draining the oil and changing filters, too.
Keep the engine oil level near the full mark of the dipstick using the same brand and quality of the oil. Replace the oil and filter per the manufacturer’s suggestion. Ensure proper disposal of materials to prevent environmental liabilities.
3. Cooling System Service
The cooling system protects the generator from extreme heat and cold. It maintains or increases generator lifespan. You must perform cooling system inspections to ensure the longevity of the equipment.
You can make inspections during generator downtime following regular intervals. Allow the engine to cool before removing the radiator cap. Then, check the radiator exterior for blockage and use a clean cloth or soft brush to remove dirt.
4. Fuel System Service
Corrosion and contamination of diesel are some of the common generator problems. Ignoring the damages can cause the whole system to fail.
Generator maintenance services inspect the starting system, coolant level, and fuel system. Drain the fuel filters often to prevent the accumulation of water vapor in the tank. The system needs testing and polishing if you fail to change the fuel.
5. Testing Starting Batteries
Deficient starting batteries can lead to generator system failure, too. However, performing proper maintenance ensures the battery produces enough power. Test the condition of your batteries to start the inspection.
Clean the batteries using a damp cloth to remove dirt. You can remove the batteries and wash the terminals in the presence of corrosion. Then, check battery gravity using a hydrometer.
6. Regular Generator Exercise
A generator can go from a cold start to operational in seconds. However, this can also cause a heavy strain on engine parts. Experts suggest conducting a 30-minute engine exercise at least once a month.
A routine exercise ensures a reliable engine start. It lubricates engine parts, avoids rusting of electrical contacts, and consumes fuel. Keep a record of operational parameters, observations, and corrective measures for future use.
How To Use Generator Maintenance Services
A generator serves as a power source reserve that operates during unforeseen events. It’s an investment that increases the value of the property, too. Apply generator maintenance services to ensure continuous power support.
Looking for more home maintenance tips? Check out our other blog posts to discover more.
