Signs Your Standby Generator Needs a Service Check

A standby generator can be a must have, depending on your situation and circumstances. Whether you have a residential, commercial, industrial or mobile generator to help run your home or business, there will come a time when you realize that your generator needs service. Here’s what to know when you’re trying to determine this for yourself.

Signs To Look For

There is a wide range of potential signs to look for when trying to determine if you need to call in Generator Pros. Here are some of our top indicators to be aware of. If and when you notice these, waste no time–get in touch with us!

Unusual Noises or Vibrations

If a generator is functioning as it should, it will be smooth and relatively quiet. However you would categorize the level of sound, you can count on a well-functioning unit to be consistent across the board. So pay close attention to any unusual sounds you may hear as these could be initial indicators of a problem brewing. If you’re noticing sounds that fit the following descriptions, it’s time to get in touch with an expert:

• rattling
• grinding
• knocking
• clanking
• squealing
• humming

Unusual noises can be clear indicators of internal issues, like failing or loose parts and components or even–more concerningly–problems with the engine. Various mechanical issues or simple causes like low oil could also be to blame for unusual noises. Regardless of the sound or suspected cause, if it is out of the ordinary, it’s time to call in the Generator Pros. 

Apart from noises, excessive vibration is also worth investigating. It could point to internal imbalance and can lead to worsening performance, loose parts, internal wear, and mechanical issues. 

Testing Issues

Regular monthly testing is recommended to ensure that your standby generator is in good working order. This is a prime time to make observations and pay attention to any inconsistencies. Look out for surges in power along with fluctuating or reduced power output or short runtime–these could be signs of potential problems that need to be addressed by a professional.

Upon testing, your generator should initiate operation instantly. If this doesn’t happen, maintenance could be necessary. Slow start issues could be happening due to problems with the engine or battery, along with a host of other internal, mechanical causes. With regular testing, you’ll be able to nip problems in the bud and ensure that your standby generator is working when and how you need it to be.

Fluctuating Power Output

When your standby generator is running and working properly, there should be no noticeable difference when you use appliances or machinery in your home or business. However, if there are issues with internal components, you may notice inconsistent power delivery that manifests as flickering lights or dips in power when appliances are running at certain speeds. Fluctuations in power output can end up harming sensitive electronic devices and appliances, and your generator stands to be damaged over time as well if it continues to be operated despite having electrical output issues. Battery issues can be to blame as well–look for problems at startup, low voltage readings when tested, and visible corrosion on the terminals. 

Excessive Fuel Consumption

Regular testing or use will familiarize you with the amount of fuel that your generator needs to work properly. So if you start to notice that it is using more fuel than usual, this could be a clear sign of internal problems that could be solved by routine maintenance or service.

Excessive Exhaust Smoke 

For a generator engine that operates via fuel combustion, some exhaust smoke is perfectly normal and to be expected. However, excessive amounts of smoke or smoke of an unusual color or strong odor can point to potential trouble. Differing colors of smoke could indicate a variety of internal issues, from incomplete fuel combustion to burning oil. Seemingly simple indications can be clear proof of real issues happening inside your generator.  Take these signs seriously and look into generator service and repair.

Visible Damage or Leaks

Inspect your generator unit for any obvious signs of damage to the exterior weatherproof housing. Look also at visible wires and components for anything that appears to be awry. Check around the unit for fluid leaks as well, which could be indicators of problematic or compromised seals, gaskets or hoses–you may smell them before you see them. Along with affecting generator performance, leaks can be potentially hazardous and dangerous. Any leaking fluid requires immediate service from a professional to prevent damage and ensure safe operation. We here at Generator Pros offer service 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Feel free to give us a call if you need emergency service outside of regular business hours. 

Electrical Wear and Tear

When doing your regular inspection of your generator, take a close look at any wires, buttons, or other related components. Signs of damage to look out for include:

• frayed wires
• sticking buttons
• loose electrical parts

Any seeming damage, no matter how apparently minor, will more than likely require repair to maintain good functioning. Frequent, unexpected shutoffs can also be a sign of excessive electrical wear and tear.

System Alerts

An easy way to know that your generator is in need of service is if your specific model is equipped with a built-in diagnostic system that naturally alerts you to potential problems. Self-testing features and diagnostic tools can offer you reports on your generator’s overall health and functioning. Regular monthly inspections allow you to notice these alerts and then catch issues before they get out of control. Some common issues that alerts can make you aware of include low oil levels, overheating, and fuel line leaks.

Overheating

An unexpected shutdown paired with a strong burning odor can indicate that your generator is overheating. Various factors can lead to overheating, ranging from clogged filters to cooling system issues, and the root cause will need to be professionally diagnosed.

Age & Run Hours

Older generator units or those with more than 200 hours of runtime require a little extra attention to ensure that they are still operating properly and safely. Even the most minor inconsistencies will need a professional diagnosis.

The Importance of Preventive Generator Maintenance 

Many experts find that a majority of generator failures can be traced back to neglected maintenance tasks. Monthly tests are recommended for owners, with a 30 minute runtime under a normal load, to best mirror a real-world situation. During these regular tests, any small issues you notice can be observed and then stopped before they ever become more serious. View these monthly tests as just another maintenance task that ensures safe, proper operation. You want to be sure that your generator will be there when you need it, and regular testing is a great way to get ahead of problems so you aren’t left high and dry. 

Beyond owner maintenance, annual professional inspections and preventive maintenance are key to ensure that nothing is missed. In fact, the two go hand in hand and are both necessary to ensure proper functioning. At Generator Pros, we use our preventive maintenance program to give your generator a full rundown through all of its systems, performing countless tests and tasks to ensure top functioning. Our comprehensive maintenance and repair services are tailored to your generator’s specific needs and requirements, ensuring that you catch problems early while also improving the generator’s lifespan and efficiency. Professional inspections and service also enable you to maintain the manufacturer’s warranty as long as possible.

On the other hand, ignoring potential signs of developing issues will only lead to preventable damage and possibly even unit failure. You never know when to expect a power outage–take action to rectify small problems before they become major issues! Get in touch with our team and schedule your yearly generator maintenance appointment.