8 Signs You Need a Generator Repair

Your power generator works hard to keep your business up and running when you need an alternative power source, such as during a power outage. Over time, it will experience wear and tear and eventually require a repair to maintain its reliability. Timely repairs will minimize downtime for your business, reducing any financial impact that could be caused by a power disruption.

It is essential to recognize when you need a repair to prevent smaller problems from progressing into larger, more expensive ones. Here are the top signs you need a generator repair.

1. Power Fluctuations

If your generator struggles to start or powers on and off randomly, you should have a trained generator technician assess the system. This could be an indicator of a larger issue. You don’t want to have to worry that your system will fail when you need it most. By calling a technician right away, you can have the issue addressed promptly and ensure your system will power on the way it should.

2. Increased Maintenance Needs

Has your system been needing more maintenance than usual? This could be a sign that its parts are beginning to wear down and could need repair. Taking care of these repairs will benefit the whole system, helping it work more efficiently. This could range from generator belt replacement and hose repairs to engine overhauls. The professionals from Valley Power Systems can handle it all so that you can focus on your business.

3. Increased Fuel Consumption

If your generator is using more fuel than usual, that usually means it’s losing efficiency. It’s having to work harder to maintain the same level of operation, so it consumes more fuel. You could need a simple generator repair to restore efficiency. A technician from Valley Power Systems can assess your system, uncover the reason behind the increased fuel consumption, and provide whatever repairs your generator needs promptly.

4. Leaks

Leaks can result in lost efficiency and wasted energy, which can cost you a huge amount of money over time. However, leaks can be hard to find on your own, especially if they are minor. Our professionals have the training and equipment to locate hidden leaks and repair them fast, saving you time and money.

5. Battery Issues

If your generator’s battery doesn’t produce enough voltage, it could cause power issues for the generator. Have our team perform a test of the battery and check for signs of corrosion. Your generator repair could be as easy and affordable as replacing the battery.

6. Overheating

If your system has been overheating, it’s a sure sign that a repair is in order. Overheating happens when the different parts of your engine have to work harder than normal to function. You must address overheating as soon as possible to protect the lifespan of your system. If left unattended for a long period of time, your power system can experience irreparable damage, and you’ll be left needing a generator replacement much sooner than expected.

Overheating can result from a number of issues. It’s best to have a qualified technician look over your system to find the underlying cause. They’ll handle the repair and get your system back in working order as quickly as possible.

7. Weird Noises

While generators will make noise during their normal operation, you should watch out for any abnormal noises, such as loud clanking, banging, or squealing. These indicate a larger problem with the generator. Your parts could be worn down and be in need of repair. Have a technician take a look as soon as you notice any odd noises coming from your system so that they can rule out any major problems.

8. Strange Odors

Is your generator emitting a strange odor? This could be a sign of a fluid leak in the system. If you notice a burning smell, turn off the system right away. There could be an issue with the electrical system, which can be extremely dangerous if you continue to operate the unit. Have an electrician or generator specialist come out to assess the unit right away. They have the proper equipment to find the source of the odor and repair it quickly.

Maintenance: Your Best Defense Against Repairs

The best way to minimize needing repairs is to keep up with maintenance tasks. Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your system healthy and extending its longevity. This includes scheduling timely oil and filter changes and overall performance checks. We offer customized maintenance packages to fit your specific needs. When we come out for a visit, we will assess the entire system to ensure that all parts are in working order. Best of all, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for any power emergency.

When to Opt for a Replacement Instead

Sometimes, a generator repair isn’t enough. Like other electronic equipment, these power systems will only last so long before they require a replacement.

Signs you should consider a generator replacement include:

Generator age: With proper care, you can extend your generator’s lifespan to 10 or even 20 years or more. If your system is reaching the end of this range, it may be time for a replacement.
Frequent repairs: Is your system needing repairs more frequently? These costs can add up quickly. Additionally, older generators can be more costly to repair as parts can be harder to find. If your system breaks down regularly, a generator replacement will save you money in the long run.
Loss of reliability: You count on your generator to power up when you need it most. If you continue to have problems with your system, you risk the financial future of your business. A prolonged power outage can result in thousands, or even tens of thousands, of lost income for your business. Protect your business with a new power system, which will be much less likely to break down anytime soon.
Excessive fuel usage: If your system has experienced a permanent loss of fuel efficiency, it could be time to invest in a new unit. As your generator ages, it will begin to wear down and require more fuel to operate at the same level. At a certain point, repairs will only go so far in improving fuel efficiency.

Still not sure if it’s time for a replacement? The professionals from Valley Power Systems can perform a full assessment of your system and provide you with their informed recommendation.

Your California Power Supplier

When you need a generator repair or replacement, you can count on Valley Power Systems. We serve businesses across California, providing dependable solutions for their power needs. Our experienced, certified technicians work with all kinds of power systems. If your existing unit is malfunctioning, we’ll take a meticulous approach to uncover the issue and repair it promptly so that you can get back to business. Our goal is to ensure that our customers have a reliable power source 24/7. If you do end up needing a new unit, you’ll have access to a wide selection of power products from today’s top manufacturers.

To schedule your generator repair or replacement, contact Valley Power Systems today.