A generator can be useful for many things: it can supply power during an emergency, power life-saving equipment, bring power to areas with no electrical grid, and at times it can even reduce costs. However, your generator needs regular maintenance to ensure proper operation when needed.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Service Know-How
Step 1. Maintenance should be done twice a year
Maintenance must be done even if you don't use it. Do it when the forecast excludes bad weather and excessively hot or cold temperatures. Maintenance is usually done in spring and autumn. If you don't, it is likely that sooner or later the generator will not work when you need it. It usually takes an hour to complete the job, but it depends on the condition of the generator.
Step 2. Keep a maintenance log
Update it with the dates you performed maintenance, problems found and fixed.
Part 2 of 3: Perform maintenance
Step 1. Begin by checking the general condition of the generator
Look for rusty parts, loose cables, stuck buttons, etc. Make sure the wiring is tight and there are no frayed cables. Check that the area around the generator is clean, if not clean it. The best way to destroy a generator is to let the debris go into the alternator!
Step 2. Fix any loose, stuck, or frayed parts
Ask a professional for help if you don't know how. Always work safely.
Step 3. Check the level of distilled water in the battery
Refill if necessary. Also check the voltage. It is generally good to replace the battery every 2-3 years.
Step 4. Change the lubricating oil and filters according to the manufacturer's instructions
It is not necessary to do this every six months, rather once a year if the generator has been used frequently. Record the oil change so that you remember when you did it. Check the oil level and top up if necessary. Air-cooled generators should change oil every 30-40 hours of operation, while liquid-cooled generators should change every 100 hours. In air-cooled generators only synthetic oil should always be used!
Step 5. Clean the spark plugs
Or, given the low cost, replace them once a year.
Step 6. Tighten the bolts
Bolts in various parts of the generator tend to loosen due to vibration and wear. Check the seals on the engine head and pistons, replace them if they are worn or broken.
Step 7. Check the fuel
Gasoline or diesel fuel vanishes if left in the tank for more than six months. You have several alternatives:
- Empty the tank and change the fuel. Dispose of the old one properly.
- Keep fresh gasoline in suitable containers and top up when necessary.
- Add an additive sold at distributors or hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the package.
- If you keep a generator at home only for emergencies, you should have an LPG generator. You won't have to worry about fuel aging.
Step 8. Calibrate the following components every one or two years (better leave this to a professional):
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Fuel pump
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Turbine (if present)
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Injectors
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Voltage regulator
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Step 9. Turn on the generator regularly
If you don't use it often, it is still recommended to turn it on at least once every three months to make sure it works well. At a minimum, start it up twice a year after performing maintenance. Turn it on and off twice to make sure it's working fine.
Part 3 of 3: Storage
Step 1. Always clean the generator after use
Remove grease, mud, organic matter, fuel, etc. Use a clean rag each time and help yourself with a compressor to clean the fans.
Step 2. If there are signs of rust, use a suitable rust remover
Step 3. Store the generator properly in stock
Keep it in a dry place, away from water and humidity, and covered with a cloth to protect it from dust.
Advice
- If you don't feel like carrying out all these checks, the seller will probably be available to carry out maintenance or at least recommend someone to contact you.
- Buy professional extension cords, they cost more but it's worth it. Some have socket blocking, can withstand surges and water. Keep them hung high up near the generator so they don't tangle and get wet.
Warnings
- If you live in a very humid area, you may want to install a stationary home generator, which will have a safer and more environmentally friendly coating.
- Start the generator in a well-ventilated space. The combustion fumes contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas that can kill you.
- Do not use the generator in a humid place unless it is necessary, and even then try to protect it by covering it with what you have available.
