GENERATOR MAINTENANCE
Troubleshooting Most Common Generator Problems
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deteriorate over time. You should enerators are very important in always ensure that the battery holds case of extended power outages. a proper charge and if it no longer However just like any other does that, you have to replace it. machine, generators can malfunction and fail to serve their purpose. In that case, troubleshooting generator problems is • Low on coolant: A generator may sound an alarm or simply shut quite important to ensure your generator down when the coolant level is operates in tip top shape. low; this may be caused by a failed block heater. Not all generators The following are a few common are equipped to detect low coolant problems that may cause your generator levels; instead, there is an alarm to malfunction: when the temperature of the coolant is rising. When this happens, add • The generator won’t start: This more coolant if levels are low, but if may be caused by two factors: Lack it persists you may need to check for of fuel: Lack of fuel or low quality a leak. Leaks commonly source back fuel are often reasons generator-set to the block heater hose since the engines fail to start. Fuel quality block heater produces so much heat, is very important for the smooth which has the most contact with the running of the generator and should hose, leading to faster wear and tear. always be checked. You should always ensure water or other contaminants are not in the fuel or • Block heater wear and tear: The block heater is tasked with heating in the unit’s filtration or delivery the coolant so that it circulates the systems. Low battery: 80% of engine block and keep the engine generators’ failures to start are due block warm to prevent thickening of to faults in the set’s battery. Weak oil. Since it runs all day there is an or low charged batteries are quite aspect of wear and tear that affects it common. Even a well-charged, wellfunctionability. Despite the fact that maintained lead-acid battery will
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CR | July/August 2020
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