5 Signs Your Diesel Generator Needs Repair
5 Signs Your Diesel Generator Needs Repair
Your diesel generator was a significant investment for your business. It plays an important role in your operations, providing essential backup power during emergencies, ensuring you’re never left in the dark. However, the generator will experience wear and tear as it ages, impacting its overall efficiency and performance. Eventually, the unit may require a repair or even multiple repairs to restore it to proper functioning.
Many businesses only use their generators when needed to supply power during an outage. If this is true for you, then you may not realize that your system requires repair until it’s too late. You don’t want to be in the middle of a blackout and have your generator break down. You will be forced to wait for a repair technician or for the power to be restored to the main grid. This unexpected downtime can cost your company thousands of dollars in lost production. It is essential to be proactive and recognize the signs that your generator needs servicing before minor issues progress into complex, expensive repairs.
At Valley Power Systems, we want to ensure that our customers are prepared for the unexpected. If you notice any of the following signs that your generator needs repair, you can count on our skilled technicians to handle the job professionally.
1. Power Issues
Diesel generators can experience a wide range of power-related issues. If your system requires multiple attempts to start up or shuts down unexpectedly, the problem could be attributed to the battery, ignition system, or fuel supply. On the other hand, if the generator is producing insufficient or fluctuating power, it could indicate a failing alternator, a malfunctioning electrical system, or a worn battery. To identify the exact source of the power issues, it is crucial to have the generator inspected by one of our professional technicians as soon as possible. They will conduct a comprehensive assessment and provide you with the most cost-effective repair solution.
2. Strange Noises
Diesel generators are known to be quite noisy when operating. This is completely normal. However, you should pay close attention to unusual sounds while the system runs. Noises such as knocking, rattling, or grinding may indicate that the generator has some kind of mechanical problem. Additionally, excessive vibrations could be caused by loose or damaged components. These need to be repaired right away. Have your generator inspected by our technicians promptly to prevent further damage to the system.
3. Leaks
As generators wear down, they become more prone to leaks. Oil, fuel, and coolant leaks are the most common types for diesel generators. When a leak has developed, you might notice puddles beneath or next to the unit. Leaks can be detrimental to the health of your engine by forcing it to work much harder than necessary to maintain adequate performance and efficiency. This additional stress on the engine can accelerate wear and tear, ultimately reducing the generator’s usable lifespan.
However, minor leaks often go undetected until they result in more significant problems for your unit, which can increase your repair costs. It is essential to have our team inspect your system regularly to keep leaks at bay. At Valley Power Systems, we have the proper leak detection equipment and knowledge to identify tiny leaks before they have a chance to progress and wreak havoc on your generator.
4. Overheating
Overheating is a clear-cut sign that a generator repair is necessary. If your diesel power system is overheating frequently, you should have it assessed as soon as possible. There are various reasons a generator could overheat. The most common include:
- Insufficient coolant level
- Malfunctioning radiator
- Clogged air or fuel filters
- Inadequate lubrication
- Overloading the unit
- Obstructed air vents
- Worn-out or damaged parts and components
Overheating should be taken seriously. It can cause severe damage to your generator, including blown gaskets, melted bearings, and warped rotors. Repairs may be costly, or you may even require a total generator replacement. If your system is overheating, you shouldn’t wait to call our technicians. Addressing repairs sooner rather than later will help mitigate your risk of needing a new generator. Our team can conduct a thorough assessment and let you know if a repair could save your unit or if a replacement is necessary to maintain reliability.
5. Decreased Efficiency
Over time, you may notice that your power system just isn’t as efficient as it once was. It may consume more fuel, increasing your operating costs. Using an inefficient generator can also cause extreme wear and tear, impacting the lifespan of your system. Regular maintenance and repairs are the best ways to boost fuel efficiency and maximize engine longevity. If your diesel power system is experiencing a loss of efficiency, contact a professional technician from Valley Power Systems for recommendations.
When to Consider a Generator Replacement
At some point, you’ll need to evaluate whether replacing your generator makes more sense than repairing it. If your diesel unit is approaching the end of its usable lifespan, you might find that repairs are needed much more frequently. The associated costs can add up to a significant amount over time, especially if extensive repairs are required. Additionally, if your system uses outdated parts, these can be difficult to find and costly to repair. A new generator will be much more efficient and less prone to breakdowns, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
You may also want to consider replacing your diesel generator if it no longer meets your power needs. Perhaps you purchased it when you first opened for business, and since then, your operations have expanded significantly. Continuing to use a generator that’s too small for your operating needs will cause it to wear down much sooner than expected. It will continually require repairs to sustain its performance, which will negatively impact your bottom line. Upgrading to a larger-capacity generator will help you maintain reliability and efficiency while lowering your repair costs. Our team can assess your power requirements and provide you with appropriate replacement options.
Schedule Your Diesel Generator Repair Today
Repairing your generator offers numerous advantages, such as extending its engine lifespan, increasing fuel efficiency, enhancing performance and reliability, and preventing major issues down the road. Valley Power Systems provides professional repair services from highly experienced and certified generator technicians. With our proud history of serving California businesses since 1949, you can trust that we will be here for your future power needs.
If you determine that a new generator is a better solution, Valley Power Systems offers a wide range of state-of-the-art power products from top industry manufacturers. Our knowledgeable team can assist you in selecting the right generator for your business and schedule the installation promptly with minimal disruption to your business. Don’t forget to ask about our customized maintenance contracts, which are designed to keep your power system in optimal condition year-round.
Whether you need a generator repaired or replaced, Valley Power Systems offers reliable power solutions to ensure your business runs without interruption. Call us today to discuss your options with our friendly staff.