Common Natural Gas Generator Issues
Common Natural Gas Generator Issues
Your natural gas generator is an important part of your business. During an outage, it provides the backup power you need to keep your operations running without disruption, protecting your bottom line. However, generators are heavy-duty machines that are subjected to much wear and tear over the years. They require regular maintenance and repairs to provide optimal performance.
Eventually, your generator will begin to show signs of decline, even with the best maintenance program. Many times, these are just an indication that the system needs a repair to get back to working order. Here are some of the top issues to look out for with your natural gas generator:
Contaminated Oil
If your system is showing decreased performance and hasn’t had an oil change in a while, the oil could be contaminated. Over time, oil will collect dirt, dust, water, metal particles, and other residue. These contaminants degrade oil quality significantly, ultimately increasing the wear and tear on your generator engine. It’s essential to keep up with regular oil changes to mitigate the impact of contaminants and maximize engine longevity.
Typically, a generator should have a professional oil change after every 100 to 200 running hours, but this could be more or less often depending on your particular unit. Check with the manufacturer or contact us at Valley Power Systems for a recommendation.
Inconsistent Power
A well-functioning battery is critical to maintain a reliable power supply, but battery issues are among the top contributors to generator failure. You may notice power fluctuations, slow starts, or complete power failures. These could be a sign that your battery is wearing down or that something else is impeding electrical flow, such as a loose or corroded connection.
However, batteries aren’t the only thing that can lead to inconsistent power. To narrow down the source, work with our skilled technicians at Valley Power Systems. We can let you know if your power problems are coming from the battery or something else in the system.
Increased Fuel Consumption
As your generator ages, it may experience an increase in fuel consumption. If you notice a significant spike in your natural gas bill, look to your generator. Increased usage could be a sign that your system isn’t working as efficiently as it should be. This could be due to a number of issues, so you should have it inspected as soon as possible. Our generator technicians can perform a complete assessment to identify any necessary repair needs to optimize fuel efficiency.
Leaks
Leaks are a common issue with natural gas generators, and many leaks go undetected until they cause a major problem for the system. These can be prevented by watching out for signs of leaks. If you have an oil or a coolant leak, you may notice fluid around your generator. A natural gas leak will have a pungent “rotten egg” odor. These are fairly obvious leaks that you will probably notice on your own. You should have them addressed promptly to prevent further system malfunctions.
Hose leaks are harder to detect on your own, but they will make your system less efficient and waste energy, increasing your utility costs. It’s important to have one of our professionals check for leaks regularly to keep your system running at its best.
Low Coolant Levels
If your generator is operating with low coolant, there won’t be enough to circulate through the engine to regulate its temperature. This can lead to decreased performance, cooling system damage, and overheating of components. Regularly checking coolant levels can help you keep these problems at bay.
Also, keep in mind that coolant will deteriorate over time as it’s exposed to dust, dirt, and other pollutants. If you want the best coolant protecting your engine, take advantage of our coolant sampling. We will analyze the condition of your coolant, check for contaminants, ensure proper coolant mixture, and determine its overall effectiveness. Regularly monitoring your coolant quality can go a long way toward increasing your generator’s lifespan and reducing repair costs.
Clogged Filters
If your system is losing efficiency, the problem could be as simple as a clogged filter. A clogged filter will restrict airflow and be less effective at keeping contaminants away from the engine. This can increase wear and tear, resulting in a host of performance issues if not addressed right away. Be sure to check your filters in between maintenance visits to clear out obstructions and keep your engine clean and healthy.
Overheating
Overheating can be caused by a wide range of issues. For example, frequently overloading the system beyond its rated capacity can cause it to overheat and break down. Natural gas generators can also overheat due to dirty air filters, cooling system problems, low oil levels, electrical issues, and other malfunctions. Overheating can result in extensive damage to numerous parts and components of the engine. The generator may need multiple repairs to restore it to working condition. In some cases, the damage could be irreparable, and you may need a replacement unit.
When your system overheats, It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly where the problem is, so it’s best to have a professional from Valley Power Systems take a look at the generator. We’ll conduct a full assessment and provide straightforward repair recommendations to restore your system’s functionality. If we think a replacement is more cost-effective, we’ll be able to provide you with a wide range of state-of-the-art options. We work with some of the most trusted names in the industry, including Atlas Copco and Blue Star Power Systems.
The Importance of Timely Generator Maintenance
Many generator problems can be avoided with timely generator maintenance. You should have your system inspected and maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Keep in mind that your natural gas generator should receive more frequent maintenance as it gets older to maintain performance. These visits allow your generator professional to provide routine generator care and to identify potential problems before they have a chance to progress.
If you’re uncertain about your maintenance schedule, Valley Power Systems will be happy to provide a recommendation. We offer customized maintenance contracts to fit your unit’s individual needs.
When to Repair vs. Replace Your Generator
Sometimes, a generator replacement is more cost-effective than a repair. This is especially true if your generator is over a decade old and experiencing frequent breakdowns. As your generator ages, it may be harder to locate parts, or old parts may be more expensive than new technology. If your system is breaking down often, these costs will really begin to add up. At this point, a replacement makes sense.
Valley Power Systems: Offering Generator Repairs and More
Valley Power Systems is committed to helping you keep your business up and running year-round with our reliable power solutions and expert technicians. Our generator repair team handles everything from oil changes to complete engine overhauls. We also offer generator sales, installations, and maintenance. We have proudly served California businesses since 1949, and we look forward to meeting your power needs now and in the future.
Do you need a natural gas generator repair? Contact Valley Power Systems today to schedule your appointment with our friendly staff.