Since the first engines began to power the world, they have needed maintenance to keep them running. Lack of maintenance is a sure path to breakdown and service interruption. Most people are used to servicing their cars at regular intervals with tune-ups, fluids, and filters. Parts wear out; fluids break down or get used up. A part slips a little here or wears unevenly there, and pretty soon the engine is out of tune. It’s no different for a standby generator. They are powered by internal combustion engines and like cars, they need maintenance. Having an on schedule maintenance routine will keep your standby generator prepared for any type of power outage. Make sure to look over your owner’s manual and be totally certain that the unit will not start while you are performing your maintenance
Lubrication System
The engine is lubricated by oil. Most standby generators will shut down to stop damage if there is insufficient oil to lubricate the engine. While the standby generator is in operation it will obtain signals to the generators controller if oil pressure is under than the acceptable level. At this time, the controller will deactivate the generator. Every month, be sure to check the level of oil and top up as needed. During prolonged operation, check the oil regularly. Replace the oil and oil filter as needed by the maintenance schedule―as frequently as every 100 hours of operation for some standby generators. Always use the correct viscosity oil specified for the temperature range of the generator’s operating environment.
Cooling System
Air-cooled generators have cooling vents that guide air over the engine while it is operating. Keeping these vents clear of any debris or obstruction is most crucial to allow the engine to breathe. Be sure that no leaves, grass or any other debris is blocking any cooling vents or air intakes . Make sure that doors, lids, and sides are closed and locked. Inspect the cooling system on liquid-cooled generators for appropriate coolant levels and top off the coolant as required. Make sure there are no loose clamps or any leaking hoses. Substitute any parts that are damaged or have apparent deterioration. Change the coolant as needed according to the maintenance schedule found in the owner’s manual. On a liquid-cooled generator be sure to keep an eye on the fan belt for wear and tear, cracks, or any other type of signs leading to failure. Always be sure to replace a belt before it malfunctions and breaks as this can lead to additional damage to the unit.
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