Essential Health & Safety Tips for Your Backup Diesel Generator

Does your business use a backup commercial or industrial diesel generator? These heavy-duty machines serve an important purpose—keeping the power flowing to critical business systems when the main electrical grid fails. Diesel generators are known for their extreme durability and long engine life. However, it’s crucial to take the proper precautions to ensure safe operation and keep your system in prime condition.

At Valley Power Systems, we want to ensure that our customers are ready for whatever power situation they may find themselves in. Follow our list of essential health and safety tips to maintain generator reliability at your site.

Never Run Power System Indoors

Diesel generators should never be operated indoors because they produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, tasteless, and odorless gas. This makes CO extremely dangerous and impossible to detect on your own. If you have a portable unit, ensure it is placed outside away from any doors, windows, and vents. For extra security, you should also ensure you have proper CO detectors in place at your facility. Backup Diesel Generator

Do you need help with diesel generator placement? You can rely on our friendly, expert team at Valley Power Systems. We understand the risks associated with generators and will ensure that your system is properly positioned and compliant with safety regulations.

Prevent Generator Overload

Overloading your diesel generator can lead to safety risks and reduced system performance, potentially reducing the lifespan of your equipment. Continually operating the generator over its intended capacity will quickly cause wear and tear of the system, which can lead to overheating, fire hazards, and unexpected shutdowns. Protect your equipment and the safety of others by always keeping the load within the generator’s rated limit.

If you find your current diesel generator just isn’t enough to handle your power requirements, it’s probably time to consider purchasing a replacement unit. At Valley Power Systems, we offer a wide selection of state-of-the-art power systems from top manufacturers, including Atlas Copco, Blue Star Power Systems, and Waukesha. Our knowledgeable team can evaluate your power needs and match you with the right-sized system to maintain reliability and reduce workplace risks.

Cool System Before Refueling

When adding more diesel fuel to your system, it’s important to cool the generator down completely. Spilling fuel on a hot engine can cause severe burns, fires, and even explosions. Additionally, you should avoid overfilling the tank, as fuel will expand as the system heats up. This can cause fuel to spill over and increase safety hazards.

You should also remember to store diesel fuel properly. Fuel should only be placed in approved, clearly labeled containers in a well-ventilated area that’s kept away from heat sources. This will help prevent accidental spills and reduce the risk of fire and other safety concerns.

Avoid Moisture Exposure

It’s essential to keep your generator away from water sources. Installing a weatherproof generator enclosure will help keep out rain, snow, and hail, minimizing the risk of electrical hazards and equipment damage. When cleaning the unit, never spray water directly on the generator. Water could enter the system and potentially rust and corrode parts. To clear away dust, simply wipe the exterior of your generator with a soft cloth. If that’s not enough to do the job, contact our professionals at Valley Power Systems. Our team has the proper knowledge and equipment to conduct your diesel generator cleaning thoroughly without damaging the unit.

Don’t Skip Diesel Generator Maintenance

Diesel generators will wear down over time like any other electrical system. However, regular generator maintenance can help prevent major issues and reduce repair costs. Your generator technician will be able to identify any safety issues and provide appropriate repairs before they progress.

Valley Power Systems offers diesel generator maintenance from highly trained technicians. Our customized maintenance contracts are designed to minimize downtime and keep your generator running reliably for years to come.

Our generator maintenance includes:

Oil and Filter Change – Clean oil is key to keeping your generator engine healthy. It works to lubricate the different moving parts and components, reducing friction and wear and tear. Additionally, oil filters trap any dust, dirt, or debris that could damage your system. At your maintenance visit, we ensure both of these are changed on schedule to keep your diesel generator safe and efficient.
Battery Inspection – Our team will also inspect and test your generator battery. We’ll check the voltage and clean and tighten connections to ensure dependable power. If your battery is showing any signs of wear, such as corrosion or low voltage, you can count on our team to handle your battery replacement promptly.
Coolant Refill – Coolant is essential for maintaining the internal operating temperature of your generator. If the level drops too low, you risk overheating the system, which can cause severe damage, reduce performance, and increase safety hazards. Our maintenance team will make sure your system has the proper amount of coolant to avoid these risks.
Leak Check – During routine maintenance, our technicians also look for signs of oil, fuel, or coolant leaks. These can have a huge impact on system efficiency, create safety hazards, and increase energy expenses. Even a minor leak will force your system to work harder than necessary to perform at the same level. This can cause extreme wear and tear, resulting in further damage to parts and components. We have the proper tools and knowledge to locate leaks and repair them promptly.
Engine Performance Assessment – Our team will also check in on the overall performance of your system. We’ll run the engine to allow the battery to charge and to help us determine any performance issues. For example, strange noises coming from the generator could indicate a broken or misaligned part that will require repair. If we notice anything amiss during our assessment, we’ll provide you with cost-effective repair recommendations.

With our comprehensive maintenance, you can keep your diesel generator up and running year-round. Our goal is to address the immediate needs of your system while also identifying potential issues that could cause problems later. We strive to address minor repairs early before they have a chance to lead to costly breakdowns.

Contact Valley Power Systems Today

Valley Power Systems has served California since 1949. We are proud to offer a wide range of reliable power products and services to fit the needs of your business. Whether you’re looking for professional generator installation or ongoing service and maintenance, you can count on our experienced team to have the right solution.

Valley Power Systems is ready to be your partner in power now and in the future. Contact us today for any diesel generator needs.