Generator Tips

Here are a few reminders and tips we thought would be helpful for you as we head into the winter season where power outages are more common. The middle of a winter storm is not when you want to find out your generator is a fields mouse winter home or that your needs an oil change. Check out what Kinsley, a generator supplier, suggests be done yearly to keep your generators efficient and reliable. 

"Rodent Screening - One Time
Reason: Preventative screening ensures no rodent infiltration while also preventing leaves and debris entering the unit. This minor investment in preventative maintenance can prevent major repair costs later on.

Remote Monitoring - One Time
Reason: Once remote monitoring is installed on your generator, it will run 24/7, collecting data, reviewing the data and providing instant alerts if there is a problem, The system sends instant notification via email or text and your technician will be able to assess the problem remotely, ensuring the right tools and equipment arrive onsite.

Oil Level Regulator - One Time
Reason: Oil Level Regulators reliably and automatically maintain proper crankcase oil level in stationary, multi-cylinder engines without the need for continual attention. This is important during extended outages when generators can burn up to one quart of oil every ten hours.

Fluid Sampling - Yearly
Reason: Generators have three major fluids vital for engine performance, reliability and lifespan: fuel, oil, and coolant. Periodic fluid sampling and laboratory analysis can identify problems like water, bacteria, sediment in diesel fuel; particulate contamination in oil, and caustic breakdown of coolant before they contribute to generator failure and unit down time.

Load Bank Test - Yearly
Reason: Your generator is not designed to operate without running under load. Load bank testing will minimize “wet-stacking” on diesel generators (black oily smoking condition and buildup of fuel residue in turbo units) and ensure that your unit will handle its full nameplate kW.

Block Heater Replacement - Every 2 Years
Reason: Lack of proper coolant conditioning, evaporation of coolant, chemical reaction of coolant, and constant operation in cold climates all contribute to shortened block heater life.

Coolant Flush - Every 3 Years
Reason: Coolant in an engine over a period of time becomes acidic and will start to cause damage to internal parts. A coolant flush will remove this caustic coolant and replace it with fresh coolant. This will help extend the life of your generator engine and generator reliability."

Give us a call here at Spectrum Electrical Services, Inc. to schedule your generator maintenance!