Generator Problems you Need to be Aware of
A generator is a blessing to have in case you live in an area where frequent power outages are a big problem. Generators almost become a necessity as you do not know when you are stuck in the middle of your work. Now, what will happen if your generator suddenly stops working? Well, this could lead to problems which no one likes to face. But if you are aware of some of the main causes of generator failure, you can be prepared and easily find solutions. Below are a few common generator problems in different makes and types of generators. Please note, that most of the problems mentioned in this blog can be easily avoided with professional generator servicing in Brisbane. Reactive Generators can help you solve all the problems listed below.
Problem in the Battery
The first and most common problem with a generator is a battery issue. A dead battery or battery failure can lead to generator shut down. Mostly when it happens, you will usually need to change the entire battery. The battery malfunction however can be easily fixed. It is usually caused due to human errors, accidental shut down of the electrical board or having bad connections. Loose terminals or the disposition of oil in the battery can lead to battery malfunction. Regular generator servicing and maintenance are important to increase the life of your battery.
1. Leaking Coolants
Another generator problem that generator owners usually face is the leaking coolant. Coolant is a substance that is used to cool the interior of an electric generator, which saves it from damages caused due to high heat from the heater. Since coolant is used in such high temperatures, it is very common for coolant hoses to wear and tear. It eventually leads to leakage. You will generally notice a puddle of coolant or brightly coloured liquid near your generator indicating that the hose is damaged and the coolant is leaking. You can easily solve this problem by getting the hose changed periodically by a generator repair expert.
2. Dirt And Dust In The Fuel
If the generators are not used regularly, the fuel is stored in the machine for long periods. It can slowly lead to a buildup of dust, dirt, water, and microorganisms in the oil. This eventually leads to the contamination of oil which then becomes unsuitable for use. Contaminated fuel can be bad for generator engines. Hence it is important to include cleaning and filtration of oil using various methods while generator servicing. If you open the oil tank of a generator and see that the oil has turned foggy or the water has separated itself from the oil, know that it is time for you to filter and clean it.
3. Insufficient Fuel and Oil Levels
If there is insufficient fuel in the generator, it will automatically stop working. Regularly checking the levels of fuel in the generator is extremely important. In some cases, the level indicators do not work, then you have to manually check if the fuel tank is empty in case your generator stops working. When the level of fuel is low in the generator tank, it is easy for the air to get in the system and in the hose which can be painstaking to take out. Having low fuel levels can be damaging to your generator. Also, if your fuel level gauge is broken, you should get it fixed immediately.
It also happens in case of insufficient levels of engine oil. Make sure to check the levels of engine oil if the generator has stopped working. The engine oil is very important to keep your generator lubricated. If the oil level is very low, the generator might not even start. However, if it does start and you have not filled back the oil, the engine will run without proper lubrication leading to permanent damage to the machinery.
4. Blocked Air Filters
The air filters are used to throw out all the contaminants in the generator such as debris and dirt. This process is very important for your generator to run efficiently. However, if this dirt and debris keeps on accumulating in the filter and blocks it, the generator efficiency will be hindered. Also, regularly having dirty filters can lead to the reduction of the life span of your generator. So, you should make sure that while generator servicing, the air filters are inspected and cleaned every two months.
5. Block Heater Damage
A Block heater is a part of a generator that is used to heat the coolant so that it becomes easy for it to circulate in the entire block. The block heater is tasked to keep the engine block hot so that there is no thickening of oil. When the generator is run throughout the day the block heaters eventually get damaged and fail if not serviced on time. Block heater maintenance is also one of the important parts of generator servicing.
6. Air Bubbles
As mentioned above, an empty fuel tank can lead air to get trapped in the generator that leads to generator failure. There are a lot of reasons because of which the air bubbles can be caught inside the generator. Your generator repair technician will be able to identify whether it is a leak or damage to a hose that can cause the formation of an air bubble or the empty fuel tank. The best way to avoid air bubbles getting caught in the fuel tank is to at least turn on the generator daily if it is not used regularly.
7. Size of the Generator
Some people do not realize that the capacity of power that a generator can produce should align with the capacity of power that is needed. In some companies, users tend to install bigger generators in hopes that these will be useful when the power usage is higher. This should ideally not be done. With generators, it is a standard rule to utilize it to at least 30% of its capacity. If the generator is not working to at least 30% of its capacity, it can lead to a variety of generator problems.
These are some of the most common generator problems that people face. Most of these problems can easily be avoided if you consult an experienced technician for generator repair and installation. After knowing the basic concepts behind the working of the generators, you should know that it is important to maintain them well in time to increase their overall lifespan.
With ample experience and relevant qualifications, the skilled technicians at Reactive Generators can guide you through this process. We work with every client to assess their site and establish their needs,before providing a tailored recommendation. Our comprehensive range of services also means we can assist you in other aspects of your business, ensuring you are equipped to deal with any situation that may arise. Reactive Generators operates across Queensland, offering technicians in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ipswich and Sunshine Coast. Get in-touch to experience the Reactive Generators difference today.