Having a generator is extremely convenient. But, it can also equally be a nightmare if you don’t look after it well. Industrial generators are designed to handle a heavy load and to last a long time without causing issues. With consistent maintenance, your industrial generator shouldn’t exhibit any issues.
Unfortunately, the opposite applies too. If you don’t maintain your generator or adhere to its safety procedures, you could damage it, which could be costly to fix. So, to help you, here are some don’ts you should avoid for your generator.
The Don’ts
These are a few things that you should avoid doing with your generator:
1. Never attempt to back feed
While it may seem fine at first, backfeeding with your generator can pose a significant safety hazard for you, those around your property, and for your machinery or appliances. “backfeeding” refers to plugging your generator directly into an output socket somewhere in your home.
Thankfully, with the way most industrial generators are set up, this won’t be an issue for you. Large generators are usually fixed into the building’s electrical grid, with a switch to turn them on and off. So you shouldn’t have to plug it in yourself. Still, this is good to know.
2. Avoid running the generator in a closed space
Industrial generators, diesel ones to be specific, emit a significant amount of emissions and require decent ventilation to avoid these emissions from building up. Storing your generator in a room with little to no ventilation will cause carbon monoxide to build up. In addition to reducing the build-up of carbon emissions, ventilation also keeps the generator cooler, allowing it to run more effectively. Depending on the size of your generator, you should ideally store it in a well-ventilated area that is protected from the elements and away from areas where people work or live.
3. Managing fuel incorrectly
Due to the size and power output, Industrial generators usually run on diesel. Diesel is less flammable than petrol, however, it still needs to be dealt with and stored correctly. There are a couple of things you should put into practice to manage the fuel correctly.
- Make sure that you check the fuel requirements on your generator before topping it up. You don’t want to put the wrong fuel in it by accident
- Make sure to store it in a safe area where it can be kept cool and is out of reach of others
- When you refuel the generator, ensure it’s off and cool as well
4. Keep the generator clean
If you’ve stored your generator in a store room at the back of your property where no one really goes, the chances are that it’s going to gather a reasonable amount of dust. While it may not seem like a huge issue, dust gathering can actually hinder the performance of your generator. Over time, the filters draw in the dust and get clogged. This, as a result, limits the generator’s ability to cool down and could cause it to use more fuel or overheat. So, try your best to keep the generator clean. Not only will this improve its performance, but it’ll also improve its lifespan.
5. Don’t neglect to do regular maintenance on your generator
Finally, don’t neglect to do regular maintenance on your generator. Diesel generators are favoured because they’re easier to maintain. Their parts are usually robust and made from high-quality materials, and they are also simpler to work with because they don’t have parts like spark plugs, which need to be replaced more regularly. Still, the recommended service time is after 400 hours of run time. This service would usually include changing out filters and the generator’s oil as well as inspecting other moving parts to check for any potential issues that may develop soon from wear and tear.
Generator maintenance tips
Maintaining your diesel generator is essential. Here’s what a basic maintenance tips to keep your generator in optimal condition:
- Changing the oil and the oil filter
- Checking the coolant level and changing it if need be
- Inspecting the fuel system and changing the fuel filter
- Testing batteries to see if they’re fully charged and holding charge
- Regular engine exercise to keep the moving components of your generator well-lubricated
- Inspecting the exhaust system for any leakages
You may be capable of maintaining your generator yourself, but we always recommend having professionals conduct the service to ensure the job is done correctly. If you have any questions or are looking for a new generator, contact Renteca. As leading professionals in the industry, they will be able to help you with anything generator-related.
Final thoughts
Good maintenance and simply know what not to do can make a significant difference in how long your generator will last. If you’re concerned about anything related to your generator, we recommended contacting a professional to have a look at it. There may be something you’re unable to fix. Other than that, stay up-to-date with maintenance and you generator will last you longer.
