Generators are critical in keeping homes and businesses operational during power outages. However, to function efficiently, these machines require regular maintenance and inspections.
Generators come in various sizes and types, from small generators designed for electrical outages and camping to large backup generators used by businesses and institutions. They run on different fuel sources, including gas and diesel fuel. While they can be helpful during emergencies, they must be properly maintained to ensure they work when called upon. With regular maintenance and inspections, they can break down smoothly, resulting in lost business or other costly consequences.
When selecting a generator repair service, look for a company with experience and a proven track record. You should also ask about their certifications and licenses, as they are a good indicator of whether or not they adhere to industry standards and regulations. Lastly, it is important to choose a company that is available around-the-clock in case of an emergency.
The primary job duties of a generator mechanic involve conducting thorough diagnostics, assessing machinery and systems, and performing routine maintenance. These tasks can include checking fuel levels, inspecting the battery, and testing all systems for proper operation. They can also prepare machines for transport, emptying them of fluids, and wrapping or tying them down to prevent damage.
Many issues that necessitate generator repairs stem from improper or incomplete maintenance. For example, clogged fuel lines and low oil levels can lead to engine damage and failure. Keeping a generator fueled with clean, high-quality fuel can help to avoid these problems.
Other common problems that require generator repair include overheating, coolant leaks, and unusual noises or smells. These problems may indicate a problem with the cooling system, electrical components, or transfer coils. A skilled generator mechanic can identify the source of these issues and develop a solution to get the generator up and running again.
Controls
The controls turn gasoline, diesel fuel or solar energy into electrical power for commercial, industrial and residential buildings. Repairing the controls includes replacing parts that wear out, lubricating them and inspecting them for environmental effects. For example, if the controls fail to communicate with subsystems, troubleshooting techniques may identify a communication problem, which can often be resolved by using alternative components.
A visual inspection of the controls can help identify worn out or damaged parts. For instance, arc hoods should not have cracks or erosion and photoelectric switches must function properly. Also, contactors should not show excessive silver wear and moving parts should move easily. Recording the results of visual inspections allows you to create an efficient list of replacement parts. You should also check the battery, air and fuel filters.
Wiring
Over time, generator wiring can corrode, fray or be cut. This can lead to circuit overload, tripped breakers and other problems. A professional can replace or repair the damaged wires safely and effectively.
A multimeter is an essential tool for troubleshooting electrical issues. It allows you to measure voltage, current, and resistance to pinpoint problems accurately. You also need a set of screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips head in various sizes) and insulated gloves to handle and inspect electrical parts. Other essential tools include a fuel pressure gauge and spark plug wrench for routine maintenance tasks.
Electrical problems are often the most difficult to diagnose and fix. For example, a power surge may cause a breaker to trip, but the problem is difficult to locate without a test instrument.
Another common issue is a malfunctioning rotor capacitor, which induces voltage into the generator’s rotor and regulates voltage. This problem can be diagnosed by removing the capacitor and testing it with a multi-meter set to test capacitance. If the meter reads zero, the cap is bad and needs to be replaced.
During your training, you can improve your skills by practicing outside of work on smaller machines and objects that are similar to the ones you’ll be working on at work. This will help you develop your technical and mechanical knowledge faster and make it easier to understand and repair complex machinery when you begin working in the field. Pursuing continuing education and apprenticeships with experienced generator mechanics can also enhance your career prospects and provide you with additional practical experience.
Fuel
When your generator fails to start, it could be due to bad fuel or low oil. It is important to keep these levels at the proper level so that moving parts are properly lubricated and do not rub against one another, causing damage. Checking the fuel and oil levels isn’t hard and can be done on the same dipstick used to test automobile oil.
In addition, it is critical to perform regular maintenance on a generator to uncover minor problems before they become significant and cause the equipment to fail. Keeping up with the recommended maintenance schedule will help to ensure that your generator continues to operate efficiently.
During operation, electrical components like motors, circuit boards, and transfer coils are exposed to high temperatures. This type of exposure can cause them to wear out faster and lead to malfunctions.
Over time, wiring can corrode, fray, or even be cut. Wiring is a vital component that should be repaired immediately to avoid further issues. Signs of poor wiring include low voltage warnings, malfunctioning gauges, or tripped breakers.
Coolant leaks are another common issue that can require emergency generator repair. These leaks can allow air into the system and clog the hoses. It is a good idea to flush and replace the coolant on a regular basis for optimal performance.
Belts can also wear out over time and must be replaced before they break. Fortunately, this is an easy problem to diagnose as worn, dry, or cracked belts are readily visible and can be easily fixed. This is an especially common issue with older generators that are no longer in use, as the belts tend to wear out with extended storage periods.
Belts
Whether your generator turns gasoline, solar energy or diesel fuel into electricity for residential, commercial and industrial use, it requires many essential components that must be in good working order to function properly. Preventative maintenance checks can help you catch problems before they become major issues that can make your generator unusable. These include checking for worn or broken parts, making sure the fuel hoses are not kinked and supplying the correct amount of fuel to your generator and lubricating the moving parts.
The belt that drives the alternator can be one of the most problematic. If this belt becomes loose, it can instantly stop several critical functions from functioning, including the water pump, power steering and battery charger/alternator. This can make your vehicle unusable, so it is important to check for symptoms of a loose belt, and then fix them promptly.
To access the serpentine belt, you will need to release the hood release inside your car and open the hood. You may also need to release the safety latch located at the front of the vehicle, so it is best to check your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to do this.
Once you have the hood open, you will need to remove the adjusting bolt on the front pulley of the water pump. This will give you enough room to access the other belt, which is the generator belt. Both belts will be tight when they are removed, so it is important to keep a tool around to apply pressure to the tensioner while you are loosening and routing the belts.