Regardless of the quality, brand or model of the electric generator you have, it should be used and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure trouble-free operation, which in turn will extend its life.
Proper generator installation and use ensure its long service life
Choosing the right device is not easy at all and the final decision is influenced by many factors. When researching devices, it may turn out that the model that will work well on a construction site, may be useless as a house emergency power supply or when organizing a mass event. The purchase of a generator should therefore be based on determining the power needed, its purpose, reliability or additional functions. Customers are usually informed about these things, but we decided to go a step further. Our mission is to provide top-notch generator installation, as well as to educate our clients on the operation, maintenance and safety as well as to give guidance on how to properly use a power generator. The following tips can be considered the result of our work.
Read on to learn the ABCs of how to properly use a power generator.
1. Read the instructions manual
Your adventure with a new power generator should begin with reading the instruction booklet first. After all, it’s not enough to have the generator installed and simply start the engine. The proper operation of the system and your safety depend on the proper use and preparation of the device. Each of these types of machines is very similar, but it is still worth learning the specifications of your specific model.
Differences in the design may be insignificant, but the devil is in the details. Give it a few minutes and read the product description to know, for example, which oil to use for your generator. A power generator is similar to a car. An unsuitable mixture can lead to engine seizure, which is not what you want. When analyzing the instructions manual, also pay attention to the various contraindications and risks that may occur during the operation of the device.
2. First start-up – put the engine oil in and start the generator
We install brand new power generators. Therefore, the next step is to buy and put in the right type of fuel. Of course, our licensed electricians will give you all the information, however it is your job to remember to properly use the device in order to ensure its longevity. Before starting the unit it should be cleaned of any dirt resulting from the production process, as well as all components should be lubricated. For this purpose, engine oil is used. The recommended amount of fluid should be poured into the appropriate tank and the generator should be then turned on for about 3-4 hours. During this time, it cannot supply any loads whatsoever. After this time, the used oil should be removed and the engine should be refilled with fresh oil.
3. How to properly start up your new generator
Starting up the device should only take place when no receivers are connected to it, otherwise, the voltage stabilization is often damaged and thus costly to repair. Starting the generator under load is associated with a lower rotational speed of the drive, and thus – a decrease in the voltage frequency. If this value is decreased, it must be raised to the rated level. Unfortunately, this process is very fast and the AVR is unable to keep up with it. As a result, the system crashes due to overloading.
The AVR system is also sensitive to a voltage drop while the current increases. In such cases, the generator engine tries to achieve the appropriate RPM value necessary to excite the generator, the stabilizer will then obviously try to stabilize the voltage, which may strain it and cause a failure.
The AVR breakdown is not the only problem that can occur when starting the engine under load. It is worth remembering if you want your power generator and devices connected to it to work for a long time.
4. Using the generator in proper conditions
Each generator only works properly in a specific environment. Some of them can be placed in a backyard, while others need to be indoors. However, it must not be forgotten that poisonous gases are released while the engine is running. They need to be disposed of outside, and this is only ensured by an appropriate exhaust system. The operation of these machines in a closed garage or workshop is also not recommended for another reason. Engines require air circulation for cooling. Lack of access to fresh air leads to overheating of the drive, which will certainly have a negative impact on its further operation. The user is therefore obliged to ensure appropriate working conditions for the device, otherwise the warranty is void due to improper usage.
5. Oil change and its level
The oil level should be maintained at the level specified by the manufacturer as indicated in the instructions manual. Too little of it can lead to engine seizure, and too much to other damage. Therefore, it should be monitored on an ongoing basis so that the generator works without any issues.
After working for a specific number of hours the oil needs to be replaced. Oxidised engine oil loses its lubricating properties, which causes the engine to work harder. Used oil translates into blocking of the moving parts of the engine due to heat caused by friction.
How to replace it? It’s best to do it while it’s still warm. Depending on the model, you can remove the used oil by unscrewing the drain screw in the engine block or by removing the dipstick and tilting the generator to the side. However, it should be remembered that oil is a substance harmful to the environment. You should pour it into a special container and then take it to a disposal point.
If you don’t want to do it on your own, call Wiktorowski Electrical Services and one of our licensed electricians will help you with your generator maintenance activities.
6. What kind of fuel is suitable for my home generator?
We often use a generator during grid power outages. Strong winds or storms can break electric lines, causing prolonged power outages. Having a power generator at such moments seems extremely important.
When planning to shut down the device for a long time, it must be properly preserved. This process should begin with the removal of the fuel. The liquid loses its properties due to evaporation and after about 30 days it is not suitable for further use. During a long “standby” sediment forms, which gets into the carburetor and causes clogging of its nozzles and the inability to start the engine. In this case, the only thing you can do is call Wiktorowski Electrical Services and have one of our expert Chicago electricians come down and perform a professional generator repair service.
7. Maintaining the air filter
Each engine, whether in a car or a power generator, heats up during operation. Its proper operation is therefore based on maintaining an optimal temperature throughout operation. The drives in power generating devices are most often air-cooled, therefore the condition of the filter is extremely important. It should always be checked just before starting the generator. If necessary, it should be cleaned or replaced so that the engine works without any problems. It should be done at least once a year, and with very intensive use of the generator, even several times during one season. The air filter is one of the basic parts of the engine, so starting the generator without it is extremely dangerous.
8. Spark plug maintenance
The spark plug’s main task is to create a spark that will start the engine. It is an extremely important element. When it’s cracked, worn, tarnished or with a damaged insulator it simply stops working. In this case, it must be replaced.
9. Protecting the generator against harsh weather conditions
Although power generators are relatively large and massive devices, weather conditions can cause operational issues. Snow or rain have a destructive effect on individual components or the structure of the entire device. Therefore, you should protect your generator against rainfall, as excessive moisture is the first step to irreversible damage.
Professional Generator Repair in Chicago, IL
If your generator is in need of any type of repairs, call Wiktorowski Electrical Services today. Our licensed electricians will run a full diagnostic and establish where the problem is and provide professional repair services. Contact us at: 847-272-8011