5 Signs You May Need a Replacement Generator

If you’ve had the same commercial generator for a while, you may be wondering when the time will come to replace it. There actually isn’t a set timeframe on when you should retire your current system. A commercial generator can last 10 to 20 years or more, depending on the frequency of use and how well it was maintained. Keep in mind that a typical commercial generator is designed to last through many years of service. It’s possible that you could get 10 to 30 usable years from your unit. The exact number will depend on how well maintained the generator is, how often it is exercised, and how many running hours it has used.

Proper maintenance is the surefire way of extending the lifespan of a backup generator. Eventually, however, you may find that the system isn’t keeping up with your operations as well as it used to, and it may be time to purchase a new unit. Here are 5 key signs to look for when considering a generator replacement for your industrial facility.

It’s an Older System

The most obvious sign that a generator could need replacing is its age. If it’s more than a decade old, it’s probably experienced some wear and tear. Standby generators have an average life expectancy of between 10,000 and 30,000 hours. When maintained properly, many generators can work beyond this range, but you may experience more frequent breakdowns. At that point, you would need to weigh the costs of repairs versus replacement.

The first indicator that a generator is wearing down is often reduced efficiency. The system might struggle to keep up with the same load it has always handled. This issue could be resolved with a simple tune-up, but if you still notice problems with the system afterward, you should contact a generator professional from Valley Power Systems to assess the unit. We can let you know what it will take to get the generator running like new again so that you can make the best decision for your business.

Thanks to recent innovations, today’s gensets are much more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly than power systems of the past. They also come with advanced features such as remote monitoring to make power generation more convenient for the user. With remote monitoring, you can track generator status and perform diagnostics from anywhere via a smart device. If your current unit is outdated, you can reap the benefits of these technological improvements with a new standby commercial generator.

You Have Increased Generator Problems

Your backup generator may need replacement if you are regularly dealing with system errors and shutdowns. The purpose of preventive maintenance is to ensure the generator provides consistent and reliable power. However, if you are still experiencing frequent repairs even with periodic maintenance, now might be the perfect time to replace your generator.

Signs of decreased performance include power fluctuations, reduced power output, and slow startups. These can be incredibly frustrating to deal with during a power outage, and you may be left in the dark. You should also note that declining generators will consume more fuel than newer models to meet the same power needs. This will have a significant impact on your operational costs.

When a generator is increasingly unreliable, trying to keep it running will only cost you more money in delays and repairs. You should weigh the cost of continuing with this endless repair cycle versus investing in a brand-new generator that won’t require nearly as many repairs anytime soon

Your Power Requirements Have Changed

When buying a generator, many business owners focus on their current power needs without considering what the future might bring. As their business grows, their power needs increase, and the same generator is expected to take on the extra load. Over time, this will wear the system down and eventually cause it to shut down much faster than intended. If your business has expanded significantly over the years, it’s a good idea to invest in a new generator that will meet your needs now with some room for growth.

There’s Too Much Fuel Consumption

Another sign that your generator is taking a downturn is increased fuel consumption. Ideally, fuel consumption should remain relatively the same throughout the year if you don’t experience major changes in generator usage or powered equipment. You will find the expected fuel economy in the generator’s manual, but there are times when this number could decrease. If you have noticed an uptick in fuel consumption for the unit to do the same work it has done in the past, you should consider having the unit inspected to rule out any issues.

As a generator ages, its mechanical parts begin to deteriorate, making it less efficient over time. You can expect fuel usage to increase incrementally over the years, but an immediate significant increase in consumption indicates that something is wrong with the system. You should have it looked at by an industry professional to see if a replacement generator is in order. Replacing your old standby generator with a modern and energy-efficient one can help you save money and enjoy a reliable power supply year after year.

There’s Unpredictable Power Output

The whole idea behind buying a standby generator is to have access to consistent and dependable power. If the generator operates roughly, starts up slowly, or experiences power disruptions, these could be signs that a new generator is in order. When there is a power outage, a standby generator with an automatic transfer switch should start up within seconds of the power loss. If there are delays or trouble starting, you should have a professional evaluate your generator system.

Many things can cause a generator not to start up when there is a power outage. A generator specialist will be able to consider all of these factors during their assessment. In an emergency situation, the last thing that you’ll want to worry about is whether or not your generator will be able to keep your operations running. Having a power system that will start up and work as expected is essential to the overall success of your business.

Extend the Lifespan of Your Generator With Proper Maintenance

Preventative maintenance plays a crucial role in maximizing the lifespan of your unit. If you ignore your unit’s maintenance needs, it will break down much sooner than expected. Generator maintenance typically includes the following tasks and more:

Maintenance Requirements

Oil change: Regular oil changes are essential to lubricate the different moving parts of your generator’s engine. Oil reduces friction between these components, which will help to minimize wear and tear over time.
Filter change: Filters keep out harmful particles that could damage your system. Periodic filter changes will keep filters from becoming clogged, providing optimal airflow for your generator.
Engine exercise: If you don’t use your generator regularly, you should have the engine exercised at every maintenance check. This will keep the battery charged and help service technicians identify performance issues.
Battery inspection: A worn battery can cause power fluctuations that impact overall generator reliability. Your technician will inspect the battery and test power output to ensure your system is ready to handle your requirements during an outage.
Leak check: Leaks can result in decreased generator efficiency, which can increase operational expenses significantly over time. However, some leaks can be hard to find on your own. Your maintenance technician will have the proper tools and equipment to identify hidden leaks and handle the repair promptly.
Coolant refill: Coolant is essential to controlling engine temperature, so the coolant level should be checked at every visit. Fresh coolant will help keep the system from overheating, minimizing the risk of a power failure.

Valley Power Systems: Your Partner in Power

Getting a replacement generator offers many benefits for your business. You’ll have access to reliable power, more efficient equipment, and newer technology. Ready to explore your options? Valley Power System is committed to offering you the best products when it comes to backup power solutions in California. Whether you need scheduled maintenance or to replace your old generator, we are here for you with quality brands and premier services. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to work with today’s most trusted generator makes and models. To learn more, call today to speak with a member of our friendly staff.

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