Why do you need the perfect commercial diesel generator inspection checklist? First of all, you need a checklist to simplify the maintenance process. There’s a lot to inspect, and you don’t want to neglect any part. Neglecting your diesel generator will only degrade its performance.
Good maintenance practice brings more performance out of your diesel generator. So, every time you inspect your commercial diesel generator, you’re adding more time to its life. It’s all about the small details. Knowing what to check will help you spot problems before they become disasters.
You need a checklist to clear the safety risks and make the process quicker, safer, and easier. Generator maintenance starts with proper installation design. Once you’ve your generator installed, you must start working on your inspection checklist.
With that in mind, here’s your ultimate commercial diesel generator inspection checklist.
Diesel Generator Daily Visual Inspection
Ideally, a dedicated service technician should monitor the generator while in operation. If one isn’t available, look for any unusual signs on the exhaust, fuel, electrical systems. Furthermore, listen to any crackling coming from the engine.
Also, notice oil leaks and clean them on the spot. Check loose valves, hoses, and belts to tighten them. The vibrations from the generator may unfasten screws, nuts, and bolts as well. Remove insects and their nests when you detect them. Take care of your generator to keep it running smoothly and with fewer damages.
Check Oil Levels
Always turn off the generator before checking the engine oil. It’s a basic maintenance process that should take only a few minutes. Insert the dipstick in the oil case, and check the indication marks to determine the oil level.
If an oil change is in order, you must drain the container before putting in the new oil. According to Americas Generators, you must always use the recommended oil brand by the manufacturer. Don’t switch between oil brands often.
Keep Your Generator From Overheating
Overheating is one of the most common problems that drain the life out of your generator. It doesn’t only harm its operation, but may also pose a safety risk.
So, inspect the coolant level after shutting your generator. Next, allow the engine to cool. If your generator is overheating, add enough coolant but don’t fill the tank to the brim.
Check and clean the radiator with a soft, clean cloth from any accumulated grime or dirt.
Generator Source also recommends checking the temperature with a heat gun and checking for coolant leaks.
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Commercial Diesel Generator Fuel Inspection
According to Jiangsu Starlight Electricity Equipment, the diesel generator area should be well ventilated. But too much or too little ventilation will cause fuel insufficiency due to carbon deposition.
There’s another risk of water vapor condensation in the engine. So, make sure to clean the fuel filters regularly. And replace them when necessary.
As a fuel, diesel will dissipate within one year. So, don’t store the fuel for long periods of time. An additional fuel filtration accessory may be in order when the fuel injection system isn’t working properly.
Battery Inspection
The battery of your diesel generator is responsible for starting the engine. Most system failures start with an overused or undercharged battery. You must inspect the battery’s health regularly.
Specifically, you want to inspect gravity and electrolyte levels and solve the problem before it causes costly damages to the generator.
Go beyond inspecting the output voltage. An aging battery has a high resistance to current flow. Thus, to get an accurate voltage measurement, you need to inspect it under load. For this end, you may need a battery load tester accessory.
At all times, you should keep the battery clean from grease to avoid malfunction due to corrosion.
To clean the battery, wipe them with a damp cloth. If you notice any corrosion around the terminals, detach the battery cables first. Then use a mixture of baking soda and water to wash them.
Recommended: Exercise the engine once a month for 30 minutes or more. Ensure that disconnect any devices from the generator during the exercise. That way, you can keep the engine lubricated, prevent oxidation, and use fuel before it goes bad.
Generator Exhaust Inspection
According to McLennan, “check your whole exhaust system while the generator is running. Inspect the exhaust manifold, muffler, and pipe. Signs to look for include leakage, loose welds, gaskets, joints. Also, ensure that the pipes in and out of the exhaust are not overheating.”
If the exhaust system isn’t functioning properly, the generator will consume more oxygen. As a result, the fuel will run out quickly.
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Commercial Diesel Generator Inspection Checklist FAQ
Q: How often should you inspect your commercial diesel generator?
A: When the generator is crucial to your operations, regular inspections should be done daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, and annually. Experts recommend a full inspection every 6 months or after 500 hours of running time.
Q: Should you perform the inspection yourself?
A: You don’t have to do it yourself. You can hire an on-site service technician for this task, or hire a qualified service technician on a freelance basis. You can also contact the seller who might provide preventive maintenance services.
Q: What to do when you detect any leaking, damage, or malfunction?
A: Depending on the severity, you might need a qualified technician to check and repair the issue. If you can identify the problem, and fix it yourself, go ahead. When the problem is recurring, maybe it’s time to call a professional.
Q: What to do with unusual noise coming from your diesel generator?
A: At full capacity, generators can get loud. When it’s in normal operation, you needn’t worry about it. To minimize noise, it’s a matter of installation design. But, if you notice unusual noises that you can’t explain, contact the manufacturer or specialists immediately.
Q: What else do you need to know about your diesel generator?
A: Generators come in all makes and models. Your generator might need more or fewer checklist items. Consult your manufacturer or service provider for best preventative maintenance practices. By all means, make sure you have a generator-specific inspection checklist. That’s the only way to prevent generator problems before they happen.
