Your Guide to Winter Diesel Generator Maintenance

Lower outdoor temperatures and the potential for winter storms put your business at risk of losing power over the winter months. Fortunately, your diesel generator is there to handle the power load when the unexpected happens. However, if your system isn’t well-maintained, it may not be a reliable power source.

Make sure you’re not left in the dark this season by scheduling diesel generator maintenance with Valley Power Systems. Our professional team is highly experienced and skilled in maintaining a wide range of generator makes and models. We can ensure that your power system is ready when you need it most.

How Does Winter Affect Diesel Generators?

Cold weather can cause a host of problems for diesel generators. Severe temperatures can thicken oil, cause fuel to gel, and reduce battery capacity. These issues can lead to reduced performance, increased wear on components, and complete generator failure. Additionally, freezing temperatures can result in condensation inside the system, increasing the risk of rust and corrosion.

Winter diesel generator maintenance

Power outages are also common during the winter months. For example:

High winds or heavy snow knock down trees and power lines.
Reduced visibility often results in vehicular accidents that damage utility poles.
Cold weather increases the demand on the electrical grid, leading to outages.
Extreme temperatures or ice-related conditions cause equipment failures.

The best way to protect your business is with a well-functioning generator. We can inspect your diesel system and ensure that it is prepared to weather harsh winter conditions.

5 Benefits of Winter Diesel Generator Maintenance

There are numerous benefits to servicing your system during the winter, including:

1. Keeps the Battery Charged

During generator maintenance, your expert technician will turn on the system and allow it to run for a set period. This gives the battery a chance to recharge, warms the engine, and helps reduce moisture buildup that can cause issues for your system. Additionally, warming up the engine will help prevent oil from thickening, allowing it to circulate and properly lubricate parts and components.

2. Ensures Fresh Oil and Filters

Your maintenance technician will conduct an oil and filter change, which will go a long way toward protecting your diesel power system this winter. Over time, oil can become contaminated with dirt, fuel, and moisture, reducing its overall effectiveness and increasing wear and tear. Filters can also become clogged with dust, dirt, and debris that can damage your engine. A fresh oil and filter change will help keep your system clean and reliable.

3. Reduces the Risk of Failures

Preventive maintenance can also minimize the risk of premature generator failures. Your technician will address regular service tasks, such as oil and filter changes, coolant checks, and battery inspections. They will also look for leaks, corrosion, and other signs of wear and tear. This will allow you to be more proactive about your diesel generator repairs. Handling repair needs sooner rather than later can keep minor problems from becoming major issues that could disrupt your operations this winter.

4. Improves Fuel Efficiency

Having your diesel generator maintained this winter will also help boost your system’s fuel efficiency. When a generator goes too long without maintenance, it increases wear and tear on parts, leading to higher fuel consumption and potential breakdowns requiring repairs. A well-maintained system will use fuel efficiently, reducing your operating expenses and preventing potential failures.

5. Prevents Costly Downtime

Another significant advantage of diesel generator maintenance is that it will help ensure your system is ready for any power emergency. When a generator is well-maintained, it is more likely to perform as expected. A poorly maintained unit is less reliable. It may break down midway through a cycle or fail to start up at all, resulting in costly downtime until power is restored to your facility. Maintenance will decrease this risk and help keep your system dependable.

How Often Should a Diesel Generator Be Maintained?

Diesel generators are incredibly powerful and durable machines constructed with sturdy parts and components. They are designed to withstand high usage and harsh environmental conditions. However, like any electrical system, these generators need to be maintained regularly to sustain typical performance.

The generator’s manufacturer will recommend servicing the unit at specific intervals, typically after a certain number of running hours, such as every 100-200 hours of use. However, this number can vary widely depending on the make, model, and size of your unit. The age of your system, how well it has been maintained, and the frequency of use can also influence how often maintenance is required.

At Valley Power Systems, we recommend scheduling a professional generator inspection at least twice a year — just before the summer and winter seasons when power demand is higher. Regular inspections and service will help keep your system in prime condition, ready to weather any extreme temperatures.

Valley Power Systems: Your Generator Maintenance Partner

Valley Power Systems is proud to be your partner in power. We provide diesel generator maintenance from highly qualified technicians. Our customized maintenance plans are designed to provide the level of service your unit needs, whether you have a brand-new system or one that’s seen years of reliable service.

At Valley Power Systems, our goal is to provide the timely services that your system requires to maintain optimal performance. Diesel generator maintenance typically includes:

Oil and filter change
Engine performance testing
Coolant check
Battery assessment
And more!

Our experienced team will complete maintenance tasks according to schedule to keep your system efficient and reliable. We take a holistic approach to diesel generator maintenance, inspecting critical components and identifying potential issues early. If we uncover any problems with your diesel system, we will provide you with cost-effective repair options and handle the job promptly so that you can focus on what truly matters—running your business.

Contact Valley Power Systems Today

Regular maintenance is necessary to reduce the risk of power disruptions. Look to Valley Power Systems for all your generator maintenance and repair needs. From oil changes to engine overhauls and everything in between, you can trust that our certified technicians can handle the job. We’ve been serving California businesses since 1949, and we look forward to providing the power solutions you need to stay up and running year-round. When it comes time to replace your system, you can count on us to have access to the latest power equipment.

Get the winter protection that your diesel generator needs. Schedule your maintenance appointment today. Call Valley Power Systems to set up your service with our friendly and professional team.