Generators are highly reliable sources of backup or even primary power, depending on the situation. In remote locations or in situations where maintaining a constant supply of energy is critical to human lives or continued operations, they aren’t optional – they are a vital piece of infrastructure. Being aware of common generator problems allows you to identify and address issues promptly, ensuring that your generator continues to function optimally. Here are just a few issues that you should be aware of, and how you can prevent them.

Lack of Maintenance

Like any piece of machinery, your generator needs to be maintained regularly. Lack of regular maintenance is one of the primary causes of generator problems. This includes basic tasks that anyone can do, such as oil and filter changes, spark plug replacements, air filter cleanings, and overall inspections. If you fail to maintain your generator, it will suffer from poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even complete failure.

Fuel Contaminants

Especially in poorly maintained generators, contaminated fuel can lead to structural breakdown and poor performance. Common contaminants include water, dirt, and sediment. All of these can clog filters, carburetors, and fuel injectors, leading to engine problems or the inability to start the generator. This can be avoided by maintaining the machine properly and making use of properly stored fuel with regularly replaced filters.

Battery Issues

Very similar to your car, generators often have internal batteries that facilitate the starting process. When these batteries fail, the internal engine can fail to turn over, leading to failure of the generator. Regularly inspecting and replacing the battery as needed can prevent this issue.

Dirty Air Filters

Air filters prevent dust, dirt, and debris from entering the machine, helping to prevent fuel contamination and erosion of essential mechanical materials. If air filters aren’t regularly replaced, they become inefficient which can lead to contaminants entering the machine. Replacing the air filters regularly, as directed by the manufacturer, can keep your generator operating at maximum efficiency.

Ignition Problems

The ignition system, including spark plugs and ignition coils, is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine. Much like in a vehicle, faults in this system can cause misfiring or stalls when you go to use the generator. These can be prevented both with regular maintenance, and regular exercises of the machine. A generator that simply sits without use for years on end will begin to break down.

Overloading

Overloading is a common issue that occurs when the demands placed on the generator exceed its energy generation capacity. Overloading can lead to overheating, decreased performance, and even generator failure. It’s essential to be fully aware of the generator’s power generation output capacity and operate only within those boundaries, especially when your generator is only designed for temporary, emergency use.

Cooling Issues

Every machine, generators very much included, have safe temperature parameters under which they can operate efficiently. If your generator has issues with venting heat, it will not operate efficiently. In extreme situations, it may even catch fire or explode. Regular inspection and maintenance of the cooling system, including checking coolant levels, flushing the system, and addressing any leaks or issues, is crucial to avoid cooling system problems.

At GenTech, our decades of combined experience can help you with common and uncommon issues with your power generation system. We maintain a full parts warehouse and fully stocked field service vehicles 24/7 for any repair, service, commission, or testing need. Contact our trained and certified technicians today!