You have a generator and yet if you don’t know how to troubleshoot your generator? Normally, we prefer to own a portable generator as our home power backup. Then an emergency with generator failure is waiting for you. Nobody likes to live with the power outage condition. In power outage trouble, one of the most common alternative power sources of power is a generator and there are some common problems that you may have to face. You can solve them only if you have prior knowledge.
Here we will explain how to troubleshoot the most common problems with a generator. We all require optional electricity to keep cooking, lights, entertainment, heater, and other electronic devices going in emergency time. So, now you can realize why it is important for you and your family.
Generators are complex mechanisms that can break down for any common reason. For troubleshooting issues, you have to be prepared in advance.
Troubleshooting Checklist for Portable Generator
Fuel Check
There is always a chance that you may receive an indication of the faulty fuel level when the fuel tank is actually empty. Often, a mechanical fuel level gauge sticks to the generator and can cause it. Remember, there are generators that will not start at all when the tank is almost empty. In such conditions, the air is not drawn into the fuel system, causing such failure. To correct this, regularly perform direct visual checks to assure the tank fuel level is functional. If required, add some fuel to the engine.
Remember: Diesel fuel can cause corrosion from water in the fuel tank. Be careful how you fill the tank when it rains or when you fill it by condensation. Avoid opening the tank on a hot humid day. If you do not, moist air will get into the tank. If there is a small amount of water in the tank, the fuel filter will shut off, limiting the flow of fuel into the engine. Remember, water can also destroy and stop the engine. Check for some signs: An unusual smell or discoloration, for example, is a sure sign of discomfort. You definitely want to fix it.
Spark Plug Test
Locate out if there are signs of wear and tear in the generator’s spark plug? You need to fix the plug rapidly in rare circumstances: if the electrode shows a huge carbon build-up, if there is a break on the insulator or if the electrode is damaged or burned separately. The spark plug tester is extremely useful in helping to tell if the plug is actually faulty. When the engine cranks, a strong spark usually comes between the terminals of the tester. The absence of such a spark automatically indicates that you need to replace the faulty plug.
Air Filter Testing
It is important to know accurately how your generator works. Airflow is always required to operate the machine. You need to understand that a clogged air filter prevents this process. Therefore, check that the air filter is never filled. In case it needs some cleaning, then cleans it. If you find that the filter is full or malfunctioned, it’s time to replace it. Often, it is advisable to have additional filters nearby. In fact, Air Filter is a very cheap component.
Check the Battery Condition
When a battery is discharged, it develops lead sulfate on the plates, mainly when it is not completely charged. This may be the main cause of the problem when you charge and discharge the battery too usually. Finally, you are bound to find that the battery does not last long with its charge. If this happens, it will not be able to start the generator during an emergency. It may be desirable to renew the battery if it is more than three years old or left unused for some time. It is possible to start a weak battery generator only by contracting your connections and doing some careful cleaning. Several times, a generator fails power due to dirty or unsecured connections. These effects stop generator functions. Find out if you can work quickly by replacing the battery before the due expiration date. You may find that the generator is not providing enough power if the reflected power is not a high property or is not equal to the forward power. Forward power refers to the total engine capacity. Battery failure is usually a sign of an electrical wiring issue that needs fixing by a qualified specialist. Avoid trying to do this yourself as you may damage the machine or endanger yourself.
Oil Level Inspection
If you use a portable generator, you need to monitor oil levels regularly. To function well, your generator needs a specific amount of oil. Make sure that your machine always has the required amount of oil. At the same time, do not forget to add fresh oil regularly, never put used oil or bad oil into the generator.
Conclusion
In this blog, we talk about troubleshooting portable generator problems. You should know how to solve your generator problem. Our EO energy team is always there for you. If you want more information related to New generator and used generator, you can contact our support team.