A Simple Guide On How To Extend The Lifespan Of A Commercial Diesel Generator: Super-Practical Tips From An Electrician Near Me | Myrtle Beach, SC

3/22/2023

Whether diesel or natural gas, industrial generators play a vital role in ensuring an interrupted power supply for the business. For most industries, these pieces of equipment could be a major investment to last them through several years of service.

A generator’s life expectancy is dependent on various factors. But generally, a well-maintained machine can last 30,000 hours maximum before it calls for a replacement. However, your generator could wear down with only 10,000 hours of use or less if you don’t take good care of it.

Compared to a natural gas generator, a diesel generator has a longer lifespan – it can last upward of 50,000 hours of use. Even so, the ultimate life expectancy of an individual power backup system will depend on variables such as generator sizing, the surrounding environment, or the engine size, among others.

There are some preventative measures you can take to help elongate the life of your commercial diesel generator to enjoy maximum benefits. In this blog, you’ll learn how best to lengthen your diesel generator’s life expectancy so that your company is all set for emergencies. Read to the end to know better.

Schedule Load Bank Testing Regularly

Load bank testing is part of the preventative maintenance practices that allow an electrician near me to establish whether a given generator is operating efficiently. Testing is essential for standby generators that are not always in use.

During the test, the electrician near me introduces an artificial load to the unit, bringing the engine to a specific operating temperature and internal pressure. This is meant to exercise the machine to ensure its ability to run at a particular kilowatt output.

There are many benefits of conducting load bank testing. Firstly, it helps remove carbon buildup from the system’s engine and verify the electrical connections.

Secondly, load bank tests are a great way to tell any failing generator components or potential issues that your electrician near me should deal with during routine maintenance.

Again, when it comes to commercial diesel generators, load bank testing helps prevent wet stacking, which is discussed in detail in the next section.

Stay Clear of Wet Stacking

Avoiding wet stacking is critical for the longevity of your commercial generator. Wet stacking occurs when unburned fuel sips into the exhaust system of a diesel engine, leaving behind a dark, thick substance.

The whole phenomenon happens when you operate your diesel generator at the wrong temperatures or use it too much or less often. Or if you also work with an improper air-fuel ratio.

To combat this problem, have your generator inspected by a licensed electrician near me for wet stacking at least once monthly, along with regular load bank testing.

Ensure Clean Air at All Times

Want to enjoy an extended generator life? Prioritize cleaning and replacing the air filters regularly for improved air circulation. Remember, the engine has to compress air and inject it into the fuel supply for the generator to work, meaning air quality matters.

Always Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Getting the most out of your industrial diesel generator requires that you and your electrician near me adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the following:

• Installation
• Maintenance
• Load size
• Exercise
• Frequency
• Fuel type

Your generator manufacturer’s instructions help ensure the best possible care so that the unit keeps functioning as expected for the longest time.

Even though there are general generator maintenance and service guidelines, some manufacturers include more specific instructions to keep the generator in good shape.

Check the Generator’s Oil Levels Frequently

To ensure your diesel generator works at its full potential, you should check its oil levels regularly. If the generator doesn’t have enough oil, moving parts won’t be sufficiently lubricated to avoid damage due to friction. The latest generator models will shut off if they’ve inadequate oil levels.

When checking the oil levels, the dipstick should be pulled out first. Suppose the levels are low, but the oil seems clean. In that case, you need to add more oil to the generator.

On the other hand, if the levels are low and the dipstick comes out with dirty oil, consider changing the oil. Doing this routinely with the help of an electrician near me can help extend your generator’s lifespan.

Keep the Generator in the Right Location

Storing your industrial generator in the right location allows it to operate at its best. Generators emit exhaust fumes when running. Thus, to ensure safety at the workplace, you want to avoid keeping your power backup equipment near windows, air vents, doors, high-traffic areas, or combustible items.

If your generator is installed outdoors, consider sheltering it with a correctly fitted cover to safeguard it from the elements. That way, you’ll reduce the risk of fuel degradation that may result in many engine problems, including increased fuel burning and filter plugging.

For those whose generators are installed indoors, ensure the venting system is examined regularly by a professional electrician near me to prevent issues with the exhaust systems for a safe work environment.

Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach: Reliable Generator Service Company Near You

Are you a business owner, and have a diesel generator at your company? If yes, Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach is the company you want to contact for all your generator needs. We can help you save time and money by ensuring you have a dependable power backup source.

When you work with an experienced electrician near me, you’re confident your generator is prepared for whatever life may throw at you. We also offer general and emergency electrical services. Get in touch with our experienced team today through a call or online.

Conclusion

To this end, it’s clear that extending the life of your commercial diesel generator requires a little effort. Taking proactive maintenance steps and working with a qualified and reliable electrician near me like Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach is vital to ensuring your generator functions as and when needed to avoid disruptions in business operations.

See our previous blog on this topic here.

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