7 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Generator Power System

A generator is a great investment in your business. It can provide the backup power support you need in the event of an outage. By keeping your operations going, you can minimize the financial losses you would experience if you didn’t have a generator onsite. However, your power system can begin to show signs of wear and tear as time goes on, and you may be wondering when it’s time to replace your generator altogether. Here are some signs that you should consider a generator replacement.

1. Your Power Requirements Have Increased

Business owners often purchase their initial generator and later find that it doesn’t have the capacity to handle their increasing power requirements. Consistently exceeding the power capacity will quickly wear it down, eventually resulting in generator failure. When shopping for a new generator, it’s important to consider the future of your business. The generator should be large enough to handle your current power requirements with room to grow. Read our blog on what factors to consider to properly size your generator.

2. The Generator Has Trouble Starting

Have you noticed that your generator is taking longer to start up than normal? Causes of ignition problems range from starter damage to issues with fuel components. You can reduce your risk by keeping the generator maintained. However, if the unit continues to experience a delay in starting, it is a sign that parts are beginning to wear out. Eventually, the system won’t start altogether, and you will be left without the power source you need. Before that happens, you may want to consider purchasing a new generator.

3. You’ve Experienced Higher Fuel Costs

If your generator has been using more fuel lately, it could be a sign that it’s losing some of its efficiency and may need to be replaced. As generators age, their mechanical components begin to wear down. This causes the generator to work harder to perform its job, so it requires more fuel to run. These costs can really begin to add up, so you might find it more cost-effective to purchase a newer unit that will be much more efficient.

4. Your Unit Has Needed Excessive Repairs

Generators are durable machines that are designed to provide years of reliable performance. However, you might notice that your generator has required increased repairs as the years go by. If these repairs are becoming more and more frequent, it’s likely that your generator is reaching the end of its usable lifespan. A new generator can save you money in the long run, and you will have some peace of mind knowing that you will have a power system that will work when you need it most.

5. Your Generator Is Old

A standby generator can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. How long they are intended to last will depend on a variety of factors, such as environmental conditions, frequency of use, and whether or not it was properly maintained throughout its life. Once it nears the end of its lifespan, it may perform inconsistently and require more repairs. If your generator more than a decade old and is showing these signs, it may be time to replace it.

6. Its Carbon Monoxide Emissions Have Increased

All generators emit some carbon monoxide in their normal operation, which is why it is so important to place your generator outside a good distance away from any doors or windows. Your facility should also be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms since this dangerous gas is odorless, tasteless, and colorless, making it virtually impossible to detect on your own. It is recommended to track the carbon monoxide levels around your generator over time. If the numbers show a significant increase, it means that the generator isn’t working as efficiently as it once did. Reduced efficiency causes more gases to be released from the generator’s exhaust, which poses a potentially fatal hazard for anyone working near it. At this point, it’s a good idea to buy a new commercial generator.

7. Generator Performance Is Inconsistent

As a business owner, you don’t want to have to worry about your generator shutting down in the middle of an outage. You should be able to rely on your generator to provide a steady flow of power when you need it. However, if it hasn’t been performing consistently, you should have it serviced by a professional right away. If performance continues to be a problem, it’s a sign that your generator is beginning to wear down and will eventually need to be replaced to avoid a disruption in your operations.

What to Consider in Your Generator Purchase

Now that you know it’s time to replace your generator, you might be wondering what to look for in a new power system. The right generator for your facility will depend on a variety of factors, including:

• Cost: The cost of a commercial generator can be $10,000 to upwards of $25,000. The price varies depending on type, size, and other aspects.
• Power Capacity: Your new generator should have a power output rating that suits the power needs of your facility. Generally, this means buying a larger generator that can handle the huge power loads required to run an industrial facility.
• Fuel Type: You will need to consider whether you want a natural gas or diesel generator. They both have distinct advantages, but the best choice will depend on your needs and preferences. This guide can help you select the right fuel type.
• Placement: Before buying a generator, you should have an idea of where you would like it located so that you can ensure that there is enough room to accommodate the unit.

Call Valley Power Systems to Replace Your Generator

Are you ready to explore your options for a new commercial generator? Contact the experts at Valley Power Systems. We provide a broad array of power solutions for businesses across California, and we look forward to helping you with your power needs.

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