Typical Standby Generator Maintenance

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial generator.

Typical Standby Generator Maintenance

The typical life expectancy for a generator is between 20,000 and 30,000 hours, serving a crucial role while waiting for a storm restoration company to come to your business. If you are looking to push the maximum number of hours and avoid generator problems, you need to consider required preventative maintenance.

Weekly
You are going to need to perform small maintenance tasks every week. These include:

• Running the engine
  
• Checking for alarms or warnings
  
• Ensuring adequate fuel levels for an emergency
  
• Setting the engine to auto mode
  
• Checking that the circuit breaker is closed
  
• Ensuring there are no leaks
  
  

Monthly
On a monthly basis, you will need to spend more time checking fluid levels, such as the coolant and oil. You should also check the battery to ensure you are ready for a disaster.

Bi-Annual
You are going to want to check the thermal protection levels every six months. Use the appropriate tester for the type of coolant you are running in your generator in Broadview, MT. At the same time, inspect the drive belts to ensure they have the proper tension and are in good condition.

Annual
A certified technician will need to come out every year and perform crucial tasks, such as changing the engine oil, fuel filter, air filter, and spark plugs. While there, they will also clean the crankcase breather. Aside from these tasks, they will also check various aspects of your systems, such as the coolant concentration. If any extra maintenance is needed, like a coolant system flush, your technician will perform these items at your annual service. Also, if you have a diesel engine, your technician will test and condition the fuel and remove any water from the fuel tank.
This list will get you started on your generator maintenance. Taking precautions like this can have many benefits for your business. The primary one is that you put off replacing your equipment longer.