Generator Servicing Mistakes
While considering the size and intended use for a generator is fundamental to selecting the most appropriate unit, ongoing maintenance is essential to ensuring the machine will keep your site operational when needed. Routine checks and services will keep your generator running at optimal capacity, reduce unnecessary breakdowns, and limit the likelihood of downtime. A correctly serviced generator is far more likely to provide long-lasting value and cater to the unexpected and unpredictable nature of power outages. Here are some of the most commonly encountered but easily avoided mistakes that can be made with the servicing of your generator.
Skipping Services
Neglecting regular and routine services is one of the most frequently made mistakes by generator owners. Performing periodic preventative checks of the unit will help identify, address and rectify any issues before any major problems are caused. This process will also maximise the unit’s expected lifespan and enhance power efficiency during usage. Maximising the potential of a generator will reduce the likelihood of damaging the appliances it is servicing too.
The recommended frequency of servicing varies significantly. These factors can depend on the age, size, usage and location of your generator. The friendly Reactive Generators team can work with you to create a servicing schedule that caters to your specific needs and budget.
Inadequate Generator Maintenance
While regular maintenance servicing is essential, the quality of a service is just important. A comprehensive and thorough service should include burning off unburned fuel, changing filters and fluids when required, testing the remaining fuel, starting the motor, checking the cooling system and assessing the engine. Inadequate generator maintenance is as invaluable as failing to service the unit at all.
Drawing on our extensive experience in the industry, the team at Reactive Generators are skilled and equipped to provide a rigorous and specialised service for all types of generators. We also stock a wide range of spare parts and replacements on-site so that we can offer efficient solutions to any identified issues.
Unqualified Operators
Professional generator servicers undergo specialized training and certifications to provide proper, long-lasting and effective maintenance for all types of units. Employing an unqualified or in-experience operator can lead to unidentified issues, underlying problems and ineffective service. Failing to recognize these issues before they present a significant problem can limit the unit’s potential lifespan, reduce reliability and lead to unnecessary breakdowns.
The team of skilled technicians at Reactive Generators are not only fully qualified and well-experienced, but they are also committed to continued learning. We strive to continually refine our practices and remain up-to-date with the latest tools to ensure you receive the best possible service.
Fuel Quality
Using good quality fuel is fundamental to the longevity and efficiency of a generator. The condensation from cheap and low-grade options can cause microbes to thrive and contaminate the tank. This process will eventually lead to damage within the fuel injection system and other parts of the unit. These parts are not only costly to replace but can trigger further problems, reduce the life-span and limit reliability. Reactive Generators can advise you on the most appropriate fuel for your specific unit.
Operating on Low Fuel Supplies
Fuel quantity is just as crucial as fuel quality. Maintaining adequate levels of fuel within the tank will prevent the generator from shutting down during usage, and will maximise the unit’s efficiency. Letting the fuel levels drop too low can also cause permanent damage to the system, and void the warranty in some cases. We recommended keeping the fuel level at around 90%, as this will compensate for any expansions from temperature changes.
Irregular Usage
While backup power supplies are generally only required at irregular and unexpected intervals, a generator should not be left unused for long periods. Regularly running your generator keeps the unit functioning and optimal capacity and helps identify underlying issues within the system. This proactive approach will consequently enhance the reliability and functionality of the unit, minimising the potential for disruptions to daily business at your commercial or industrial site.
Oversized Generators
Buying an excessively large generator will mean the system is never used or tested to its full load capacity. Operating at lowered loads than designed to carry will result in excessive fuel waste and wet stacking. Accumulated wet stacking over time results in a build-up of unburned fuel in the exhaust system, which can present a severe fire hazard. Contact Reactive Generators for assistance when choosing the correct unit for your needs.
Lack of Future Planning
Purchasing a generator to cater for the growth and expansion of your commercial or industrial site is a common practice for many businesses. While the system is too large for your current operational needs, it will reduce the need for an upgrade down the track.
To alleviate any wet stacking and maintain the unit while it operates on a lowered load, Reactive Generators recommended regular load testing. This process will help flush out any wet stacking that might build-up before the business expands. Contact your local Reactive Generators to schedule your load test.
Neglected Oil Changes
Just like maintaining a car, generators also need frequent oil changes. Routine and periodical changes will ensure your engine is operating at optimal capacity and will reduce the likelihood of contamination from old supplies. Reactive Generators offers oil replacements as part of our comprehensive maintenance and servicing offers.
Insufficient Lubrication
Limited lubrication within the generator can lead to excessive corrosion and heightened wear and tear. Over time, these issues can build up and present significant problems for the operation of the generator. Regular oil changes will ensure each component is operating smoothly and moving in the correct format. This process will also help to identify any underlying issues with the generator.
