Now that you’ve put in the time and money to purchase your fantasy power generator, it’s time to make sure you run it according to the manufacturer’s specifications. How well you use and maintain an electric power generator set determines how long it will serve you.
Some folks abandon their generator to the elements, deprive it of engine oil, and, worst of all, overload it. They do, however, expect their generator to answer when it is called upon.
This article explains how to maintain your electric power generator set so that all of your time and money invested in its purchase is not squandered.
Maintaining your Electric Power Generator
Tips on how to keep your generator in good working order can be found here. We’ll concentrate on power generator preventive maintenance because that’s what you should be concerned about as a generator owner.
Generator mechanics should be in charge of corrective maintenance. One thing is certain: following the preventative maintenance guidelines outlined here will cut down on the requirement for corrective maintenance.
Following these tips will also ensure you qualify for manufacturer warranty if things go wrong. Here are your generator maintenance tips:
1. Study Generator Manual in Detail Before First Use
Your generator comes with a user manual that includes the majority of the information you’ll need to operate and maintain it effectively. You’ll also find instructions on how to start and stop your generator properly in the manual.
You’ll also discover instructions on how to use and maintain your generator appropriately. It’s also worth noting that the suggestions made here should not be used as a substitute for reading your generator’s handbook.
When our recommendations disagree with the instructions in your generator’s user handbook, we recommend that you follow the instructions in your generator’s user manual instead.
2. Inspect Generator and Connection Before each Start
Before starting your generator, check the oil and fuel levels. Check the coolant level if your generator uses a liquid coolant (such as water). Before starting the generator, make sure the coolant, fuel, and engine oil are all at the proper levels.
Examine the fuel line for any leaks or spilt fuel. Before starting your generator, replace any broken lines and clean up any fuel spillage. Inspect the electrical wiring as well.
3. Use Recommended Engine Oil, Check Level Before Start
The engine oil specified by the manufacturer must be used to fill the crankcase of your power generator. If at all possible, buy your engine oil in sealed containers and check the label for a marking indicating that the oil satisfies the minimal requirement set by your generator maker.
If you have to buy in quarts, make sure to ask for the engine oil bottle to verify it satisfies your generator’s requirements. Before starting the generator, make sure the engine oil level in the crankcase is within safe limits.
Make sure the oil is free of contaminants. Because the generator crankcase becomes unclean with time, it’s critical to change all of the oil after a while. This is accomplished by draining the oil from the crankcase and then refilling it with the required engine oil.
This practice should be performed every two weeks for generators functioning in Nigeria, according to us (or every 30 to 40 hours). Oil should be changed every two weeks, and your engine oil should be changed during the first month of use. For more information, consult the owner’s manual for your generator.
Replace Parts with Only Genuine Spares
Make certain that any replacement parts are genuine. Ensure that the repair mechanic is using the correct parts. When replacing parts like spark plugs, be sure you get the ones that your generator manufacturer recommends.
Service and Install Generator by authorized Mechanics/Electricians
Do not have your generator serviced by unqualified professionals. If you live in Nigeria, this may be difficult because most generator mechanics are unqualified. Inquire with the generator dealer about a good generator mechanic to service and repair your generator.
Most good generator dealers offer a service department that can handle all of your service needs. If they do, bring your generator to them for maintenance or repair. Also, make sure your generator is installed by a qualified technician.