Electric generator is a tool that serves to generate electrical voltage. Generator are commonly used in homes, stores, or offices when the electricity goes out or is interrupted. This makes the generator is a very helpful tool in this era of all-round use of electrical energy.
Generator component is also a man-made device that needs maintenance. This of course aims to make the generator can always run well when used and be more durable. Many factors cause generators to be maintained, such as:
- Excessive usage of generators.
- Excessive air and environmental temperature.
- Generator that has not been used for a long time.
Therefore, we will discuss about how to care for generators to make them more durable, some of them including:
1. Warm Up Generator Routinely
Generator also need to warm up when not in use, at least once a week if you are not using it. A generator that has not been used for a long time will lower the performance of the generator engine because the components in the generator engine have not been lubricated.
So that warming up the generator will lubricate the components inside the generator engine and the performance of the generator engine will be lighter. This of course will make the generator more maintained and durable.
2. Change Generator Oil Periodically
Changing the generator oil regularly is very important so that the generator components don’t wear out and get damaged quickly. You can check the quality and engine oil level of the generator by pulling on the generator dipstick. Do this when the generator is off and let it sit for about 10 minutes so that the oil collects in the oil pan.
If the oil looks cloudy or the generator engine oil level is low, it is necessary to change the oil. Use oil that meets your generator standards, usually generators use SAE 20-40 type oil. You can also look at the manual book to see the correct oil change period so that the components in the generator engine are well maintained.
3. Cleaning the Air Filter
Similar to vehicle engines, generators also have an air filter. A dirty air filter will hinder the performance of the generator engine and will also interfere with engine performance when used because the engine will absorb heavier air and absorb poor air quality.
Clean the air filter regularly so that it can filter the air properly. Because some generators have air filters that have different ingredients, clean them according to their requirements.
4. Check the Generator Radiator
Inspection on the radiator is very necessary, considering that the radiator is one of the cooling systems. Check the radiator for leaks by checking the radiator fins carefully. Immediately repair the radiator or replace it if necessary if there is a leak in the radiator.
Also check the coolant level on the radiator. Coolant is specially made to absorb heat and prevent corrosion of metal components. Replace the coolant radiator if necessary to optimize the cooling system.
5. Check Generator Spare Parts
Generator spare parts also require inspection because they allow wear and tear. If wear has occurred, then it needs to be replaced. You can also look at the manual book to see the time period for replacing spare parts on the generator.
6. Check Distilled Water
Check the distilled water in the generator battery. Distilled water in the generator battery needs to be checked to determine the level of the distilled water.
Refill with distilled water for optimal generator performance. Recharging is usually done every 2 to 3 years.
7. Check the Generator Cables
The cables on the generator also need to be checked for damage. Replace immediately if you find a cable that is broken, torn, or peeled because this can cause an electrical problem.
8. Keep the Generator in a Safe Place
Choose a safe place to store the generator from rain, sunlight, or dust. When the generator is not used, it is likely that the generator will be rarely checked.
Therefore, so that the generator remains durable even if it is not used for a long time, store it in a safe, shady place and have good air circulation.
9. Make Sure the Generator is Always Clean
Make sure the generator is always clean from dust, oil, and other dirt that can stick to the generator. You can clean the generator two or three times a week.
Cleaning the generator will certainly increase the life of the generator because the components will be more maintained and durable.
10. Operate the Generator According to the Manual
Before operating the generator, it is highly recommended to read the manual first in order to understand the steps in operating the generator.
Operation outside the manual is certainly dangerous and can cause the generator to be damaged quickly because it does not comply with operational standards.
11. Turn Off the Generator When the Generator Condition is Abnormal
When the generator feels abnormal, it makes sounds and vibrations that are too loud. Then immediately turn off the generator and check the components that can be checked. If the cause is not known, then you can call the technician for immediate repair.
Those are some ways to care for generators to make them last longer. Know them before you decide to buy a generator.