IMPORTANT ROUTINE CHECKS FOR YOUR GENERATOR
It is a fact that we all want our SUMEC FIRMAN generator to last as long as possible in excellent condition. However, even the most potent generators require regular maintenance to ensure exceptional performance. Generators need to be serviced by experts so it's done correctly. Routine checks are essential to prevent generator problems before, during or after each servicing appointment. It is an extra check to ensure that your generator does not fail you in your moment of need. This article has carefully grouped these regular checks into three categories- weekly, monthly and annual.
WEEKLY CHECKS
- Check for any visible damage on the body of the generator, any crack, smear or holes - Once identified on time, you can remedy the situation and save your machine from breaking down.
- Check for fluid levels, that is, engine oil, fuel and coolant - The importance of these fluids can be likened to the importance of blood in the human body. Your generator requires these fluids to function correctly. Once your generator runs out of liquids, it won't come on or stay on as long as you want. Most newer generators have an oil indicator that alerts you when your machine is running low on oil. Always check the fluid levels to know when a top-up or change is due.
- Run your generator and look for abnormalities - Your generator might not sound as it used to, or worse, the generator might be jerking. Please stop using the generator and inform your technician at once to fix it quickly.
- Check the generator surroundings and remove any litter around it - You might wonder what debris could do. No matter how minor, air filters can suck it into your generator, which takes up a lot of fuel and causes harm to your engine. So, endeavour to clean the generator's surroundings occasionally.
MONTHLY CHECKS
- Monitor the condition of the battery.
- Clean the spark plug with an iron brush/fuel.
- Ensure the wirings are still intact and tightened. Tighten all loose wires and ends.
- Servicing your generator can be done every two weeks or monthly. Hire a professional technician to handle that so it is done well, but if you wish, you can read our articles to explain what servicing your generator entails.
- Change the engine oil because leaving it too long can stop the valve from working well.
- Check the condition of the radiator hose and the radiator core for fouling (an accumulation of unwanted materials).
- Check the start and control battery electrolyte.
- Check for any fluid leakage.
- Monitor and reset the valve whenever you hear a strange noise. Your technician can do this every three months.
- Wash the air cleaner by dipping it in fuel and squeezing it out. Carefully place it back after you've done this twice. You can complete the task quickly or hire the services of a reliable technician.
ANNUAL CHECKS
However, it is easy to forget to check your generator annually, especially when you already check it weekly and monthly. Annual checks are as necessary as weekly and monthly checks because it is needed to affirm your generator will render excellent service.
Annual checks require checking if changing and replacing parts are needed because of regular wear and tear of parts.
- Change the air filters.
- Change the fuel filters.
- Check all the electrical connections.
- Change all nuts, bolts and clamps.
- Clean the generator engine.
- Clean the alternator and examine alternator output connections.
- Inspect all wiring components.
- Test with the load.
A bonus tip is that whatever damage you notice on time, such as damaged wires/coil, should be fixed timely. The sole aim of these checks is to elongate the lifespan of your machine and keep it serving you in good condition while simultaneously minimising the bills associated with the breakdown of your generator.