Everything You Need to Maintain Diesel Generators

Diesel generators work differently than regular ones. Click here to learn everything you need to maintain diesel generators.

It was a rough year for folks on the Gulf and Atlantic coasts during 2017. Hurricanes caused huge amounts of damage and left many people without power. Hurricane Irma left 6.3 million customers without power in Florida alone.

If you run a business, a power outage can have a devastating impact on your operations. Every hour you go without power means loss of revenue.

Many businesses invest in large generators to supply power during blackouts. These generators provide power for long periods of time and are more durable and powerful than smaller inverter generators.

“But even if they’re durable, they need regular maintenance,” said Tobias Sommer, owner of Generators For Sale in Omaha. “To protect your investment, you need to know what upkeep is required and how to do needed maintenance.”

Let's look at the types of maintenance you need to do to keep your diesel generator running properly.

Fuel System Maintenance

Diesel fuel eventually gets contaminated and deteriorates. That is why it’s highly recommended you run your diesel engine regularly.

If your diesel generator doesn't get used much, run it to use up remaining fuel before it becomes contaminated. The growth of bacteria eventually becomes an issue, Especially in warmer climates.

In addition to using up remaining fuel, drain the fuel filters periodically. Your generator user manual will indicate when.

Water vapor also eventually gathers in the fuel tank. Drain it and other sediments. You should consider a biocide treatment for the fuel. Check with the manufacturer about this.

If you don't use your generator in three to six months, you should seriously consider taking these fuel system maintenance steps. If you don’t, you could cause costly damage to your generator and its engine.

Proper Lubrication

Just like your car or truck, your diesel generator uses oil to lubricate the engine to ensure it runs smoothly. And just like those vehicle, you need to monitor the oil level and its condition.

When you check the oil, shut the unit down.

“Oil in the engine’s upper levels,” Tobias said, “needs to return to the crankcase before you measure it.”

Use a dipstick, like you do with an automobile engine. Consult the operator’s manual for your specific unit to get oil viscosity and API classification.

It's important to keep the oil level close to full. Always add the same brand and don’t downgrade its quality.

Oil filter changes also are required. Again, your manual will tell you how frequently. The manual should also include instructions on how to change it.

Make sure to follow environmental guidelines for properly disposing of oil and filters.

Cooling System Upkeep

You'll need to monitor the coolant in the diesel generator as specified by the manufacturer. It needs to stay at a healthy level, so you'll add coolant from time to time. A diesel engine needs a mixture of antifreeze, water and coolant.

“Only check and add coolant when the generator unit is off and cooled down,” Tobias said.

You'll then remove the radiator cap and add coolant as needed. You want three-quarters of an inch in the reservoir.

When checking the coolant level, it's also good to check the outside of the radiator. Look for any foreign objects or obstructions.

You'll also want to remove any dirt or buildup with a cloth. Make sure you're careful because as the fins are easily damaged. Compressed air can be a good tool for this.

Maintain the Battery

A diesel generator battery must stay charged and maintained to avoid its own power failure. Inspect and test yours regularly. It also requires cleaning.

Here are the steps to take to ensure a healthy battery:

1. Testing

It's not good enough to check just the output voltage. This is not an indication of the battery’s ability to start the generator.

As the battery gets older, they gain a higher current flow resistance. The only way to test them accurately is under load.

“Some generators perform this test automatically when the unit starts,” Tobias noted.

If yours doesn't, use a manual tester in order to get a good reading of the battery strength.

2. Check Specific Gravity

This is specifically for open-cell batteries. Use a hydrometer to read the specific gravity of every battery cell.

A reading of 1.260 means your battery is fully charged. If your specific gravity is under 1.215, it's time for a new battery.

3. Clean Your Battery

Like other components of your diesel generator, you need to keep the battery clean to ensure it functions properly.

Use a damp cloth to clear away visible dirt and buildup.

You should also check the terminals for corrosion. If you find any, unhook the battery cables and clean the terminals. Use a solution of baking soda and water.

When you do this, make sure no water or baking soda enters the battery cells. After you're done, wash the solution and battery with clean water.

Run the Engine Regularly

As a rule, even if your diesel generator isn't needed, run it fairly often. Aside from helping prevent fuel deterioration, it helps keeps components lubricated. It also prevents oxidation.

This ensures you'll get a healthy start when you really need one. Start your generator once a month if it's not in use. A run time of about 30 minutes is recommended.

Ensure Your Diesel Generator Starts Every Time

If you properly execute these maintenance tips, you can be confident your generator will start whenever it’s needed. Don't be left in the dark because you didn't inspect and maintain your investment.

“At Generators For Sale, we've provided backup power solutions for more than half a decade,” Tobias said. “ Contact us today for information about commercial generators.”