Top Seven Generator Problems
Companies rely on their generators for consistent and reliable performance during emergencies. Yet improper maintenance, operation, and even storage can impact a generator’s performance. Learning how to identify potential generator problems extends the life of your generator and ensures that it will operate optimally. These seven problems frequently cause generator maintenance challenges:
- Water damage: Although one might assume that this problem strikes only generators stored outside, it can affect those stored indoors as well. Water on the outside of the generator can cause rust to form, corroding wires and impeding electrical connections. Meanwhile if water gets on the inside of the generator engine, it can corrode parts and provide breeding grounds for bacteria, which can clog filters. Prevent water damage by using the generator in a dry place free of condensation and other moisture sources.
- Poor fuel quality: Generators that run on gasoline or diesel may begin to run rough or produce extra smoke due to poor fuel quality. Water in the fuel can cause the damage described above, while sediment in the fuel can wear down parts prematurely and cause clogs in the fuel filter and fuel injection system. Be sure to always use the manufacturer specified fuel quality, and buy fuel from a reliable source.
- Corroded connections: The wires and battery nodes can get corroded over time, causing a weak connection between the battery and generator engine. That breakdown can lead to difficulty starting the generator. Inspect wires and battery before each use. Look for rust, hardened casing, or any other substance that could hinder an electrical connection. Clean the battery nodes if necessary, and replace any faulty or damaged wires.
- Overheating: Generators are not designed to run at full capacity all the time. Generally they should run at 60 to 75% of their capacity. Brief dips below are okay, so long as the generator then runs at full capacity for a short time afterward. However, operating the generator at its maximum volume can cause it to overheat and shut down, similar to what happens when a car engine overheats. Check with a generator expert about the electrical load on your generator, to make sure it falls within the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Failure to start: When a generator won’t start, it’s usually because of a clog in the system or low fuel levels. Check both the oil and fuel before starting the generator, and carefully follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to prevent clogs and damage. If a generator won’t start after a few tries, and there’s plenty of oil and fuel, it’s time to call a qualified generator service provider.
- Excessive smoke: Multiples problems can cause smoke, from dirty fuel injectors to water in the system. Usually this symptom goes along with a rough engine running. Sometimes using better fuel can solve the problem, but if it persists, consult a technician for repair.
- Inconsistent electrical supply: If the generator cuts on and off, or fails to provide a steady output, check the electrical connections first. If these are all operational, the problem could be that the engine is misfiring or has insufficient pressure for combustion. Call a generator repair technician as soon as possible.
Tags: ACF Standby Systems, generator repair Tampa, generator service Tampa, industrial generators
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