A generator is no doubt very useful equipment nowadays. It helps to increase productivity in industries as well as a good standby for emergency situations. It is also a good remedy for poor power situations in remote areas.
Regulating life support is not also left out from the advantages a generator offers. Talking about the effectiveness of production based on the instrumentality of generators. Generators could power anywhere or anything as the case may be.
However, no matter how effective a generator could be, it needs something to make it effective continually. That thing is called maintenance.
A good generator maintenance culture would yield good results; effectiveness and longevity of equipment.
The way a generator is maintained determines how it operates and the effectiveness of the power it gives.
Table of Contents
Generator Maintenance
A number of people may know a little about maintenance but mostly do not know how to achieve it. Some have the zeal to do it but do not get the time to do so. Such people are not left out of what this write up aims to talk about.
This article aims at discussing maintenance, how to clean up generator power and by extension, related maintenance procedures.
It is also worthy to note that the focus right here is a professional diesel generator(see here also).
How to clean up generator power?
First cleaning the engine. This is a very important part and needs not to be exposed to danger. Therefore, it must be regularly taken care of.
A problem with the engine means there’s a problem with the whole of the generator. Over time, it happens that the generator accumulates dirt either from external bodies or from particles that may be present in the fuel.
It is expedient to get these particles out so as to get the generator in its best working condition. The best way to clean the engine is by rinsing the engine with warm water and drying the exterior immediately. Avoid using too much water and do not use a pressure washer.
Furthermore, you get your generator power clean by using clean fuel for it. As stated earlier, there is every tendency for dirt to accumulate and dirty fuel is a very high contributing factor. So, to prevent debris accumulating, avoid using dirty fuel.
Storing fuel
When storing the fuel or fueling the generator, let it be done in a clean environment which is free of dust to avoid the particles getting into the generator.
Inspecting of the fuel filter and strainer is also effective in getting your generator clean. This could be done fortnightly or on a monthly basis.
When dealing with particles, the value of the fuel line has to be shut to prevent the fuel from flowing out. This will help get rid of the particles present easily.
Cleaning the filter
There are other things that need to be cleaned in the course of this. The filter element is one of them, as well as the reservoir of particles. Always ensure the tank is kept cleaned as well as its surroundings.
Furthermore, regularly check for fuel leakage.
Another way of getting your generator power cleaned up is by paying attention to the battery. Regularly, do a check of the distilled water contained in the battery. The battery should have a replacement on a biennial basis or three years. This helps the effectiveness of the generator.
Battery voltage
Also, do not forget to constantly check the battery voltage . This helps to know the rate at which the battery works and times when it needs to be attended to.
The fact that you also have to take care of the air filter cannot be overemphasized. You have to pay attention to it and ensure that it is in its best state. It should be cleaned ones every 100 hours no matter how dirty it may be. It should also be changed monthly.
The spark club is an important part of the generator and should be cleaned regularly. It can be cleaned with a wire brush or a spark plug cleaner.
Lubrication
Another important aspect of maintenance is the lubrication. It is expected to change the oil used for lubrication following the manufacturer’s instructions.
The oil is to be changed regularly to prevent gathering of particles, which affect the effectiveness of the equipment.
In addition, make sure the generator is never short of oil. Absence or limited supply of oil could lead to complications with the generator.
Storage
A proper storage culture is also very important in ensuring the effectiveness of a generator. keep in a place that is devoid of debris, moisture and dust. This helps to keep it clean and efficient.
Regular use
Other related maintenance steps include starting up the generator on a regular basis, whether it is being used regularly or not.
Servicing can also not be overstated. Make sure the generator is serviced regularly, either quarterly, yearly or biannually. Servicing the generator helps to keep it in the best working condition.
Locating any loose fittings and fixing them too is necessary. However, if you are not sure of what to do, you can always seek professionals help. That is better than you do what you may not be sure of.
It is worthy of note that gasoline staying dormant in a generator is no longer effective after six months if not used. Therefore use regularly or get alternatives to the use of fuel.
Cleaning
Always clean after use. Use cleaning rags to get rid of dust mixed with the grease of fuel on the body of the generator.
It is also necessary to take care of the surroundings of the generator. Make sure it is not an abyss or a place that is full of debris and dirt particles. Such particles undoubtedly would find their way inside the generator either through fuel or lubricant. Therefore, the generator should be kept in a place that is neat and devoid of dirt.
If these tips are seemingly hard to do, seek the services of your generator’s retailer who would do these things or refer you to someone who can.
Always have in store extra materials so that in cases where there’s a need to replace them.
Generator Shelter
Covering of the generator when not in use for a particular period is not a bad idea. This keeps it away from dust particles which may enter sensitive parts of it.
A generator that is permanently installed is no doubt the best option for damp areas and conditions.
Key Notes
Cleaning up your generator and maintaining it at large is not something that is farfetched. Though it might seem difficult, demanding, time-consuming and costly. However, this can always be achieved if you put your mind to it.
This culture is no doubt rewarded with the efficient use and longevity of your generator.
An additional effect of having a good maintenance culture is the fact that its help prevent spending money on repair.
Also, in situations where there is an absence of electric power supply and the constant use of a generator is inevitable, proper maintenance is important.
Conclusion
Finally, although generators are not living things that have emotions or feelings, they deserve to be maintained and cared for. It can be said that the way you treat your generator is the way it responds to its operations. At this professional forum you can ask additional questions about the generators that you have.