Ever since we as people have depended on machines to do our dirty work, there has always been a call to keep them maintained. A sure fire way to damage your equipment is the lack of maintenance and service interruption. To put it in perspective, normally we are used to tuning up our motor vehicles with frequent checkups, fluids and filters. As usual, parts will lose their integrity over time and fluids will break down and be used up. A part slips some here or wears unevenly there, and soon enough the engine is out of sync. It’s no different for a standby generator. They are powered by internal combustion engines and like cars, they need maintenance. Keep standby generators prepared for power outages by conducting maintenance on schedule. Make sure to look over your owners manual and be totally sure that the unit will not start while you are executing your maintenance
Lubrication System
The engine is lubricated by oil. Most standby generators will shut down to avoid damage if there is inadequate oil to lubricate the engine. While the standby generator is in operation it will receive signals to the generators controller if oil pressure is below than the appropriate level. At this time, the controller will deactivate the generator. Every month, be sure to check the level of oil and top up as required. During prolonged operation, check the oil regularly. Change the oil and oil filter as needed by the maintenance schedule―as much as every 100 hours of operation for some standby generators. Always use the correct viscosity oil specified for the temperature range of the generator’s operating environment.
Cooling System
Air-cooled generators have cooling vents that guide air over the engine while it is operating. Keeping these vents clear of any debris or obstruction is most vital to allow the engine to breathe. Be sure that no leaves, grass or any other debris is blocking any cooling vents or air intakes . Make sure that doors, lids, and sides are closed and locked. Examine the cooling system on liquid-cooled generators for correct coolant levels and top off the coolant as necessary. Make sure there are no loose clamps or any leaking hoses. Any parts that have endured obvious damage make sure you replace as soon as possible. Adjust the coolant as necessary according to the maintenance schedule found in the owner’s manual. Examine the fan belt on liquid-cooled standby generators for cracks, wear, and signs of impending failure. Always be sure to replace a belt before it malfunctions and breaks as this can lead to additional damage to the unit.
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