Winter Generator Maintenance: 6 Common Problems to Avoid
Winter Generator Maintenance: 6 Common Problems to Avoid This Season
As generators age, they can experience a wide range of performance issues. However, if you don’t service your power system regularly, you may not know it has a problem until it’s too late. Winter storms often result in power disruptions, and a malfunctioning generator can put your business at risk. A prolonged outage can cost your company a substantial amount of money in lost productivity. 
With some extra care, you can avoid the following common generator problems and keep your system reliable this winter.
1. Clogged Filters
This is an issue that’s easy to address on your own. You should check the generator filters regularly for excess dust, dirt, or debris, remove any clogs, and replace the filters if needed. Dirty or clogged filters can restrict airflow, which can cause major damage to your power system over time as the engine is forced to work much harder than usual to sustain performance. We recommend inspecting your filters monthly to keep clogs at bay.
2. Low Coolant Level
Having insufficient coolant can cause your generator to overheat, which may warp parts and components beyond repair. It’s important to always ensure that your unit has the proper amount of coolant, so keep coolant on hand and replace it in your system as needed. Also, be sure to ask our team at Valley Power Systems about coolant sampling. This valuable service can help monitor coolant quality and identify early signs of corrosion or contaminants. If needed, you can count on our friendly technicians for a complete coolant flush or other cooling system repairs.
3. Weak Battery
A weak battery is among the top reasons that generators fail during the winter months. However, there are some steps you can take to prevent startup problems. First, make sure the battery doesn’t have any loose connections or corrosion that could interfere with power flow. Next, verify the voltage to ensure the battery is holding a proper charge. If you notice any issues with the battery, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our professionals at Valley Power Systems. We will conduct a comprehensive assessment to rule out any other causes before recommending a battery replacement.
4. Leaks
Leaks are another common issue that can have an adverse effect on the efficiency of your power system. You can reduce the impact of leaks by regularly inspecting the area under and near your generator. If you notice any pools of liquid, you may have an oil, fuel, or coolant leak that will need to be addressed right away to restore efficiency. You can rely on our skilled technicians at Valley Power Systems to handle your leak repair with precision.
5. Loose Belts and Hoses
You should also check your system for any loose belts, hoses, or connections. Securing these components helps your generator run smoothly and avoids unnecessary strain. This can go a long way toward significantly reducing the wear and tear that can lead to costly repairs. If you are not comfortable handling this yourself, reach out to one of our highly trained professionals for the job.
6. Reduced Performance
Don’t forget to check your power system for any signs of reduced performance this winter. Allow the unit to run for at least 30 minutes each month. This can help you catch power issues, excessive vibrations, unusual noises, changes in fuel consumption, and other issues that warrant a prompt generator service. Contact our professionals to schedule your comprehensive generator inspection before minor issues become major problems.
Schedule Maintenance Service
As winter temperatures hit, you will want to ensure that your generator power system is prepared. The best way to do this is by scheduling a maintenance service with our team at Valley Power Systems. Whether you have a diesel or a natural gas generator, you can count on our expert technicians to address its service needs. We take a comprehensive approach to generator maintenance, ensuring that nothing is overlooked.
Our generator maintenance typically includes:
- Oil and filter change
Our team will perform a complete oil and filter change to keep your system clean, lubricated, and running smoothly. We know the right kind of oil to use to maximize generator performance. Fresh oil will help reduce friction between the various moving parts of your generator engine, minimizing wear and tear and ensuring a long system lifespan. Additionally, clean oil filters keep contaminants out of your engine, helping internal components stay protected and efficient.
- Coolant check
We will also check the generator’s coolant level to help keep the engine from overheating. Having the proper amount of coolant will help prevent costly generator problems, such as cracked parts and warped components. By staying on top of coolant levels, we can help you avoid unnecessary winter repairs.
- Battery inspection
Our technicians will also check your battery voltage and inspect terminals. We will look for any signs of rust or corrosion that could impede electrical flow. If we notice any issues with your battery, we will provide you with an honest recommendation for repair or replacement.
- Leak check
During your maintenance appointment, we will also perform a visual leak inspection. We understand the importance of catching leaks before they wreak havoc on your system’s performance. If we notice any signs of leaks, we will work to identify the root cause and provide prompt repairs to keep your system operating efficiently. Our team has the tools, equipment, and knowledge to uncover even the tiniest leaks.
- Performance testing
You can rely on our team to conduct a complete performance test for your generator. This involves operating the unit under load for a specific period, testing components, visually inspecting the system, listening for irregular noises, and checking for signs of wear and tear. This allows us to spot issues early, before they become costly repairs.
- And more!
At Valley Power Systems, we strive to deliver timely maintenance services to keep your system reliable all winter long. We prioritize addressing your system’s immediate needs while also identifying issues that could lead to failures later.
Contact Valley Power Systems
Valley Power Systems is proud to be a leading provider of generator products and services in California. From new system installations to maintenance and repairs, our certified technicians can address all your generator needs. Our goal is to offer the dependable power solutions you need to stay up and running year-round.
Make sure your generator will work when you need it most this winter. Contact Valley Power Systems today to schedule your appointment with our team. Be sure to ask about our customized maintenance plans!