Why Generator Maintenance is so Imperative

June 6, 2019

Preventive maintenance is essential to the life expectancy of your home generator. A typical standby generator could conceivably last 20 to 30 years if properly maintained. A typical preventive maintenance is done a schedule based upon engine hours and/or time periods. The maintenance cycle should be adapted to meet your specific application needs. The more hours a unit operates a year, the more frequently it will require service. Even our Houston heat can be a factor in how often your generator needs servicing.

The typical maintenance cycle includes a general inspection followed by a scheduled inspection and service of the following critical systems:

· Fuel System (diesel fuel requires more maintenance)

· Coolant System

· Lubrication System

· Air System (combustion and cooling air)

· Starting System (batteries and charger)

· Alternator (a frequently overlooked item)

· Transfer Switch (another overlooked item)

Semi-Annual Inspections

In addition to weekly and monthly inspections, schedule your bi-annual maintenance to check the coolant thermal-protection level. Our certified technicians will use the appropriate tester for the type of coolant being used. At the same time, they will inspect the accessory drive belts for correct tension and condition. Annual maintenance of your standby generator begins with changing the engine oil and filter. If you want to extend oil-change intervals, consider an oil-analysis program, which we can provide for you. Our certified technicians will give you recommendations based on the actual condition of the lubricating oil to ensure the longevity of your generator.

Standby Generator Maintenance Checklists

Weekly Maintenance

· Run the Generator (typically no-load, automatic transfer switch exercise cycle).

· Verify that the unit ran and has no alarms or warnings.

· Ensure adequate fuel levels.

· Ensure that the generator is in “Auto” mode, for automatic startup.

· Check the circuit breaker is closed.

· Make sure there are no fluid leaks.

Monthly Maintenance

· Check engine coolant level.

· Check engine oil level.

· Check the battery charger.

Bi-Annual Maintenance (Schedule maintenance with a technician)

· Inspect the enclosure.

· Check the battery electrolyte level and specific gravity.

· Check the battery cables and connections.

· Inspect drive belts.

· Inspect the coolant heater.

· Check the coolant lines and connections.

· Check for oil leaks and inspect lubrication system hoses and connectors.

· Check for fuel leaks and inspect the fuel system hoses and connectors.

· Inspect the exhaust system, muffler, and exhaust pipe.

· Check and clean air cleaner units.

· Inspect air induction piping and connections.

· Inspect the DC electrical system, control panel, and accessories.

Annual Maintenance (Schedule maintenance with a technician)

· Change oil and filter.

· Change the fuel filter.

· Change the air filter.

· Clean the crankcase breather.

· Change spark plugs.

· Check coolant concentration.

· Flush the cooling system (as needed).

· Perform load bank testing.

· Fuel testing & reconditioning (diesel-fuel units only).

· Remove water from fuel tank (diesel-fuel units only).

We cannot stress the importance of regular generator maintenance enough! Call our experts at Wired Electrical Services today to schedule your next generator maintenance or for any questions you may have about your home generator!

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