GENERATORS
Tips for diesel generator maintenance
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iesel generators play an important role in many environments including schools and Government buildings, hospitals, events, construction sites and more – providing a backup source of power should the mains fail. Whilst being a reliable and cost-effective source of backup power, neglecting proper care and maintenance of a diesel generator increases the risk of failure when they are needed the most. Preventative Maintenance Tips for Diesel Generators Whilst a power failure is a nuisance for some, it can be devastating for businesses – bringing manufacturing lines to a halt and in some case forcing the closure of the premises. In addition to regular servicing of diesel generators by a professional, there are a number of checks that can be carried out to ensure your generator runs when you need it most. Battery Inspections – When generators are left dormant for too long, batteries can fail during the start-up phase. Additionally, chargers, connections and cables can begin to deteriorate, preventing the required electrical current from being passed to the battery. To prevent these kinds of failures, a visual inspection
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CR | May/June 2022
should be carried out to check for any leaks, build-ups of contaminants and general damage. Running the Generator – Even when a generator is not in use, it should be started regularly to prevent fuel from becoming stagnant and degrading. Should a generator be left for more than 6 months without being started, fuel testing should be carried out by a professional technician. Fluid Checks – Diesel generators rely on fluids including coolant, lubricating and fuel to operate. Levels of these fluids should be monitored regularly and topped up with the recommended liquid as per manufacturer instruction. Additionally, any leaks in the system should be reported and inspected by a professional technician. Contaminant Checks – Contaminants found within coolant, lubricating oil and fuel can all causeserious issues within the generator. Inspect your fluids regularly with a dipstick and run the generator at recommended intervals to avoid any stagnation. If you notice any unusual results, call a professional to inspect your system. Control Panel Checks – Before startup, the control
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