It’s Only Useful when it Works!

Electricity is an indispensable part of our modern lives, and power outages can disrupt daily routines, cause inconvenience, and even pose safety risks. Luckily, in Barbados, many of us don’t have power outages regularly. This means that our generators can stand idle for many months on end. Standby generators are a reliable solution to combat such inconveniences, ensuring that your home or business remains powered during outages. However, like any other machine, standby generators require regular maintenance to perform optimally. In this post, we'll delve into the crucial aspects of generator maintenance to keep your backup power supply in top shape.

Regular inspection, testing, and servicing are the foundation of good generator maintenance. Here's what you should do for your natural gas, diesel or gas-powered standby unit:

• Visual Inspection: Look for signs of wear and tear, loose connections, and leaks. Inspect the fuel and coolant systems, as well as the exhaust system for any damage. Inspect the generator's electrical components, including wiring and connections, for any signs of damage or corrosion. This is especially important to ensure safety during operation.
• Battery Check: Ensure that the generator's battery is in good condition, as it's vital for starting the generator. Clean and tighten the battery terminals as needed.
• Make sure you clean the spark arrestor screen and check and replace the spark plugs, as needed.
• Exercise the Generator: Run your standby generator for about 30 minutes every month with no load to ensure it's in working condition. This also helps prevent carbon buildup in the engine.
• Regular oil and filter changes are crucial for the longevity of your generator's engine. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the type of oil and the interval for oil changes. Typically, this is done every 100-200 hours of operation.
• The coolant system prevents the generator from overheating. Regularly check the coolant level and quality. Ensure that there are no leaks in the cooling system, as these can lead to overheating and engine damage.

The fuel system is another critical component. Keep these points in mind:

• Fuel Quality: Use high-quality fuel, with stabilizers, to prevent gumming and contamination.
• Fuel Filters: Replace fuel filters at recommended intervals to maintain proper fuel flow.
• Fuel Tank: Keep the fuel tank clean and free from debris. Consider periodic professional cleaning.
• If using natural gas, ensure that your supply is steady and undamaged and that the flow to the unit is good.

Clean air filters regularly and replace them as per the manufacturer's instructions. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks and ensure it is properly vented to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

While you can handle many maintenance tasks yourself, it is advisable to schedule professional servicing quarterly or as recommended by the manufacturer. A trained technician can perform more in-depth checks and address any potential issues you might miss.

If you’re working with a portable generator, which is primarily not used to power a whole home, but really to keep critical items running, such as your fridge and freezer or medical machinery; the maintenance will be similar but starts with storage of your generator. Make sure you store the generator in a location where it won’t be exposed to excessive dust, dirt, moisture, or corrosive vapours. Clean it with a damp cloth or soft bristle brush, but never hose it down with water.

You’re going to want to change the oil regularly. With any small-engine power equipment, changing oil is a major factor in maintaining reliability. Change your plugs and filters as needed or recommended.

If you’re storing your generator for more than 30 days, either empty the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer to the tank and run it through the system. Make sure the battery is fully charged if you have an electric start, and be sure to run your genset for about 10 minutes every 1-2 months.

Lastly, always have an emergency plan in place. Even with meticulous maintenance, there can be unexpected issues. Regularly test the generator under load conditions to ensure it can handle your essential appliances and systems during a power outage. A well-maintained standby generator can provide you with peace of mind and an uninterrupted power supply during outages. By following these maintenance guidelines, you'll not only extend the life of your generator but also ensure it performs reliably when you need it the most. Remember, proper maintenance is the key to electricity continuity in your home or business.

For more information, you can always contact us at: info@ngebarbados.com or (246) 426 2871