If you’re operating a business, you may already be familiar with the need for installing a backup generator. The periodic load shedding that is carried out by the powercoms isn’t uncommon to the industries. And of course, the impact it has on the production cannot be ignored, either.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to set up a new business, then getting a generator should be among your priority inventory items. There’s so much that a generator can help you with- it could supply power to your machines during a blackout, or keep your HVAC units running during bad weathers, and so on.
However, simply installing a backup generator won’t make much difference. The piece of equipment also needs regular maintenance and upkeep. Of course, like all other things in the world, a generator also has a lifespan beyond which simply repairing and maintaining won’t do any good.
But at the same time, it is also necessary to be able to identify when your generator needs a replacement.
Too Many Leakages
Of course, if you find puddles of fluids underneath your generator, it is a serious situation. Your generator uses a number of fluids, all of which are necessary for the appropriate functioning of the equipment. For example, a leakage in the fuel line or the coolant system can propose additional fuel costs and overhaul of the engine, respectively. Most of these issues are easily repairable. But in case the problem is too persistent you must not waste any more time getting your gen-set repaired. Likewise, there may be a crack or a hole in the engine compartment, which could lead to leakage of the engine lubricants. In such a case, getting it repaired might not be an option. Instead of putting in money on your equipment unnecessarily, it is better to get it replaced.
Problem Starting Up Your Generator
Another telltale sign of a faulty generator is if it causes problems when starting up. An upright generator should start-up in a matter of seconds when the ignition is turned on. Some older generators that use cranks for starting up, also don’t put up many challenges in their best condition. However, if you are continuously struggling with your generator to get it started, you might wish to look into an automatic generator. In fact, you can see info about such pieces of equipment online and easily find a better suitable option for your utility. Typically, modern generators come with automatic switchover which helps completely get rid of manual assistance in starting a generator and switching the supply from the grid to the generator, and vice-versa. In simple terms, a gen-set causing problems while starting is a sure-shot sign that it’s time to search for a replacement.
Excessive Smoke
Usually, when a generator is working at its best, it gives off very low smoke. In fact, the only smoke that it produces is due to the burning of the fuel in the combustion chamber. When the fuel is properly burnt inside the combustion chamber, the exhaust system filters out the toxic emissions and minimize the harmful effects of the smoke. However, as the generator ages, the components also start wearing off, and this leads to incomplete combustion of the fuel. Incomplete combustion leads to more harmful smoke emissions, as the exhaust would also contain tiny droplets of the unburnt fuel. Apart from this, in some cases it has also been observed that the lubricant also starts burning with the fuel, leading to more smoke emissions. A generator, if it gives off excessive smoke, would usually demand heavy repairs. Notably, it is better to replace it with a better version since it could save both money and time in getting the old one repaired.
Stuttering and Strange Noises
If you could hear something cranking in your generator, or there’s a stuttering noise coming from it, you must get it checked. Most likely, there’s something broken inside your generator. It could be anything from broken gears or crankshaft to torn out clutches and starter springs. Repairing a broken generator, or replacing a part could be far exceeding the value of the generator in some cases. Therefore, rather than getting the broken parts repaired or replaced, it is better to replace the generator itself.
High Fuel Consumption
Another common hint that a generator demanding replacement would give away is consuming more fuel. As already explained, there can be faults such as leakages or improper combustion of the fuel. Besides, there can be worn out gears and crankshaft that may further increase the fuel consumption. So, if you find out that your generator is consuming more fuel than usual, you must consider replacing it timely.
Frequent Repairs
Likewise, if your generator is becoming too costly to repair or maintain, it is surely a red flag. You can compare your current maintenance cost with the one that you bore when your generator was new. In addition to this difference, you must also consider the depreciation in the value of your equipment. All in all, when you can completely make a decision that the repair costs are far exceeding the actual value of your generator, you must replace it with a new one.
If It Is Too Old
It is needless to say that too old a generator would simply be better replaced than repaired. The cost of repairing a generator that is likely older than 10-25 years could be sky-high. The reason for this increased repairing cost could be the unavailability of the spares and parts of the gen-set. Besides, the repairman could also demand higher fees for.
To sum it up, your generator would give a number of signs when it demands a replacement. Among all, the costing is the most significant measure that could help you out with your decision. It is up to you, however, to decide when to replace it. Therefore, it also suggested that you should consult with an expert and likely have your generator diagnosed for the possible faults to get a better idea. Of course, a repairman or a generator expert would be better able to suggest what needs to be done.