7 Steps to Minimize Generator Repairs

If you own a commercial or industrial generator, you’ve made a huge investment in the future of your business. To maximize that investment, you will need to take certain steps to reduce the need for generator repairs and increase system longevity. Keeping repairs at bay will help prevent breakdowns and lost productivity, ultimately protecting your bottom line.

At Valley Power Systems, we want to ensure that you get the most use out of your generator. Here are seven key steps we recommend to minimize generator repairs:

1. Change Generator Filters

Your generator filters are crucial to keep dust, dirt, and debris away from your generator engine. Clogged filters restrict airflow, leading to decreased system performance, excessive wear and tear, and potential engine failure. If your generator isn’t being used often, we recommend inspecting the filters once a month and then replacing them as needed. You may need to change them more often during periods of heavy use or if your location has experienced increased wind, dust, or snow—these events can stir up small particles in the air that can become trapped in your filters and wreak havoc on the engine.

man working on generator; minimize generator repairs with Valley Powers System maintenance

It’s just as important to keep the area around your generator clean to mitigate repair needs. Be sure to perform a weekly inspection to clear away any trash, debris, or dust.

2. Check Fluid Levels

Maintaining adequate fuel levels is essential for optimal performance and system longevity. You should regularly check the unit’s fuel, oil, and coolant levels and refill them as needed. If these levels fall too low, it can increase wear and tear and lead to complete system failure. If you notice that your system is consuming more fluids than normal, you should have it inspected for leaks. Minor leaks can be difficult to detect on your own, but they can have a huge impact on generator performance. Our professionals at Valley Power Systems have the proper tools, equipment, and knowledge to identify hidden leaks and repair them promptly.

3. Exercise the Generator Regularly

Operating your generator periodically will ensure its overall reliability and efficiency. Running the unit will allow oil to circulate through the engine to lubricate its various parts and components while keeping the battery charged, which will also reduce the risk of unexpected generator failure. Exercising the power system also helps you identify potential issues with your unit before they have a chance to become major problems.

At Valley Power Systems, we recommend exercising your generator under load for at least 30 minutes each month. This routine practice will help keep your generator healthy and ready for any emergency.

4. Inspect and Tighten Loose Electrical Connections

Loose connections can result in reduced power output, frequent engine stops, inconsistent electrical flow, and potential safety hazards. To keep your system running reliably, you should inspect and tighten electrical connections regularly. If you’re uneasy working with electrical connections, you can leave the job to our team at Valley Power Systems. Our qualified technicians will take care of the job safely and professionally, ensuring your system will provide the uninterrupted power you need year-round.

5. Listen for Unusual Sounds

When you’re exercising your generator every month, it is essential to pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations. These can indicate a loose or worn part or component, which can cause poor generator performance. While all generators make some level of noise, you should become familiar with what’s normal and what isn’t for your system. If you do notice strange sounds, such as loud squealing, rattling, or knocking noises, it’s time to call one of our professional technicians to investigate the source. We will address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to your power system.

6. Inspect the Generator Battery

A healthy generator battery is crucial for providing uninterrupted power to your critical business systems during an outage. However, malfunctioning batteries are a top contributor to generator repairs. It’s a good idea to check battery terminals for any signs of wear, such as rust or corrosion. These can impede electrical flow and cause a host of problems for your generator. If you run the unit and notice slow starts or fluctuating power supply, you may have a battery problem and should contact a professional from Valley Power Systems as soon as possible. We will conduct battery testing and rule out any other issues with your system. If a battery replacement is required, you can trust us to handle the job safely.

7. Schedule Routine Maintenance

Regular maintenance is the best way to minimize the need for generator repairs. It provides regular care for your system through a variety of generator services, including:

Inspections – Periodic generator inspections will help your generator technicians identify minor issues with the system so that they can be addressed sooner rather than later.
Oil changes – Oil changes are key to extending engine life. Fresh oil will keep parts and components nicely lubricated, reducing friction and overall wear and tear.
Filter replacements – Regular filter replacements will prevent clogs, maximize airflow, and keep your engine clean.
Leak detection – Leaks make your engine work harder to perform at the same level. This can lead to excessive fuel consumption, decreased efficiency, and increased wear.
Performance checks – Your technician will conduct a variety of performance assessments to ensure that your generator power system remains reliable.
Coolant service – Coolant helps keep your engine’s operating temperature under control. During maintenance, the coolant level is checked and refilled as necessary.
And more!

To keep your system running at its best, you should adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. In general, a generator will require its first oil change within the first 50 running hours. After that, you should have the generator maintained every 100 to 200 running hours. This number can vary depending on your specific unit, frequency of use, system age, and environmental conditions. Typically, an older unit will need maintenance more often to sustain adequate performance.

At Valley Power Systems, we offer custom maintenance contracts to keep your system in peak condition all year. We will provide a recommended maintenance schedule based on your unit’s specific needs. You can count on our skilled technicians to handle everything your system requires, from oil changes to comprehensive engine work. We’ll perform a complete assessment of your generator and identify any repair needs. Our goal is to uncover issues before they have a chance to progress into major, expensive problems for your unit.

Minimize Generator Repairs and Schedule Maintenance Today

With regular repairs, you can keep your equipment in top working condition and ready to provide power when you need it most. At Valley Power Systems, our team of highly experienced and certified technicians handle everything from routine inspections to complex repairs. We have served California businesses since 1949, and we look forward to being your partner in power. You can rely on Valley Power Systems for all your generator sales, installation, repair, and maintenance needs.

Do you need a commercial or industrial generator repair now? Contact our knowledgeable team at Valley Power Systems today to schedule an appointment for your system.