When Should You Call a Generator Repair Technician?

If you have a commercial or industrial generator, you already know how critical these power systems are to the function of your business. When a power outage happens, your generator will keep operations running smoothly until the main electrical grid is restored. The right size generator will be able to handle equipment, tools, communication systems, lighting, security cameras, and other important systems that are necessary to maintain your operations.

However, like any piece of mechanical equipment, generators require regular maintenance and prompt repairs to sustain efficient performance. While there are small jobs that you can handle on your own, like filter replacement, it’s best to work with a professional generator technician when your system requires any repair work. You want to make sure the job is done properly the first time. A trained generator specialist will understand the inner workings of your power system. They will be able to identify problems and handle the repairs with precision, ensuring that your system is always ready to perform at a moment’s notice.

generator repair technician by Valley Power Systems

Unfortunately, you might not know that you even need a repair until you experience a power outage and your generator fails. Running your generator at least once a month is essential to identify potential issues before they become major problems.

Here are some of the top signs that might indicate a generator needs servicing by a professional technician.

Excessive or Strange Noises Are Coming From the Unit

While it’s true that a generator will make some noise during its operation, you should listen for any sounds that might seem outside the norm. This includes squealing, rattling, humming, banging, etc. If your generator is making more noise than usual, or if it is vibrating excessively, it could indicate that part is missing, loose, or broken. A generator technician should perform a full assessment to locate the source of the noise and repair it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the unit.

The Generator Has Increased Fuel Consumption

If your generator is using more fuel than usual, it could indicate efficiency loss or a problem within the fuel system. This means that you’ll be spending more than expected on fuel costs, so you should have the system looked at as soon as possible. Your generator technician will be able to determine the reason behind the increased fuel consumption and then provide a recommendation for repair.

The System Provides Inconsistent Power

When a power outage occurs, you want to ensure that your generator will work reliably. If your system struggles to turn on, has power fluctuations, or fails to start up at all, it should be looked at immediately. You could need a battery replacement, or there could be a larger issue to address. An experienced generator technician will be able to determine the source of the problem with accuracy. They will handle the repair, ensuring that your system is ready to go in an emergency.

Your Generator Isn’t Running As Efficiently

Does your system seem to be struggling to keep up with your power needs, even though they haven’t really changed? It could be experiencing a loss in efficiency. Your system will be forced to work much harder to attempt to provide the same level of performance. This can cause parts and components to deteriorate much more quickly. To prevent further wear and tear, you should consult with a generator professional. They will be able to conduct any necessary repairs and provide further guidance on boosting efficiency for your power system.

Your Unit Is Leaking Fluid

If you notice any sort of fluid leak near your generator, you should have the system looked at as soon as possible. Leaks can come from a variety of sources, including seals, gaskets, tanks, and other components. If these parts are cracked or worn, leaks can occur. This can greatly impact the efficiency and performance of your system. An immediate repair is required to prevent further damage to the generator.

The Power System Shows Physical Signs of Wear

Be sure to look for any obvious signs of wear and tear on your system. Over time, you might notice rust or corrosion, which can adversely impact the generator’s performance. If you see physical signs that parts and components are wearing down, you should contact a generator professional immediately for a repair. Often, these parts can simply just be replaced to restore generator reliability.

Generator Maintenance: The Best Way to Prevent Major Repairs

Investing in regular maintenance will keep many common generator problems at bay. At Valley Power Systems, we offer customized maintenance contracts designed to provide the level of service your generator needs.

Common tasks we handle during maintenance include:

Oil and filter change—Our professional generator technicians will perform an oil and filter change according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular oil changes are key to reducing friction between the various moving parts of the engine, which will minimize wear and tear. Additionally, keeping the filters clean will ensure proper airflow to enhance overall efficiency.
Battery testing—We will also assess your generator’s battery. Batteries are only designed to last for a few years. As they wear down, they will experience a decrease in power capacity. This will eventually lead to power failure, and the battery will need to be replaced. We will test the battery’s voltage and replace the battery as needed to ensure generator reliability.
Coolant check—You can also expect our technicians to check your unit’s coolant at every maintenance visit. This includes refilling the coolant within the recommended range and ensuring that the cooling system is working properly. We can also conduct coolant sampling to determine the quality of your coolant. As coolant degrades over time, it’s crucial to ensure the best quality for your system. If needed, our technicians can flush the cooling system and refill it with new coolant.
Hose inspection—We will also inspect the condition of your generator’s hoses. As hoses wear down, they can result in leaks, which can have a significant impact on the efficiency of your system. However, it may be difficult for you to identify minor leaks on your own. We have the tools and equipment to locate the smallest leaks and will repair them quickly to protect your power system against further damage.
And more!

We take a meticulous approach to generator maintenance, allowing us to identify potential problems with power systems early on. This will help reduce the number of repairs that your generator will need in the future.

Contact Your Professional Generator Repair Company

When you need a generator repair, you can count on Valley Power Systems for a cost-effective solution. Our factory-trained and certified technicians can handle anything from a minor repair job to a complete engine overhaul. Our goal is to keep your power systems up and running to minimize the impact on your bottom line.

Valley Power Systems is proud to be California’s trusted source for generator sales, installs, repairs, and maintenance. We have been serving business owners and industrial leaders since 1949, and we look forward to being your partner in power.

If your generator is malfunctioning, contact Valley Power Systems today to set up your repair appointment with our friendly staff!