A generator is a combination of a fuel driven engine, usually diesel, with an electric generator or alternator. The diesel generator requires less maintenance due to its durability, reliability and sturdiness of character and is also normally cheaper to run due to the lower fuel cost. They can withstand heavy load for long hours and start off the supply on full load within minutes but they must be regularly maintained to ensure they are in good working order at all times. The best generator maintenance practice is following the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer of the machine.
How carry out maintenance on your generator
To begin with, a lubrication service is one of the most important maintenance practices. This must be done when the generator is shut down. Check the oil level using a dipstick and top it up using the recommended oil grade. The oil and filter should be regularly changed and this should be done every 150 hours of running time. The coolant level should be checked as often as the oil level. Some generators require a mixture of water, antifreeze and coolant additives. The radiator can be carefully cleaned of dirt and foreign particles by washing it out with low-pressure compressed air and water. Diesel fuel is subject to contamination and corrosion within a period of a year and therefore regular operation of the generator is necessary to use up the fuel before it degrades.
Regular maintenance
Your generator is the only means of keeping your factory running in the event of a power outage. To ensure that it will work when it is needed, the following steps should be followed:
- Routine maintenance: this should take place as any faulty parts will be identified and then replaced.
- Run it once a month to lubricate all working parts: a monthly run for five or ten minutes will lubricate all the moving parts and keep them in good order.
- Change the fuel: this should preferably be changed every three to six months.
To find out more about parts and spares for a generator maintenance checklist, contact Generator Parts today.