Our professionals believe that a standby generator should be started and tested periodically and given a full maintenance service after 400 hours of use. Relatively new generators that are used a great deal and serviced regularly or old generators that are used once in a while and have never had a maintenance check may require different schedules. Indeed, a new generator that has only been used a few times might only need maintenance every couple of years. The hot and humid summers of Lafayette also take a toll on a generator and may require it to be serviced fairly frequently. Here are some of the things we do during generator maintenance:
- Change the oil
- Check the coolant
- Install new spark plugs
- Change the fuel and air filters
- Perform a load bank test
It’s also important that the area around the generator be kept free of dirt and debris. It’s even more important if the generator is enclosed, for it will inevitably attract vermin. A generator that uses diesel needs a bit more maintenance because of its fuel/water separators. The lines of gas-fueled generators need to be checked for damage and leaks.
Our electricians check the oil level when the machine is cool. If it’s low, we’ll add new oil until the level is full but not overflowing. We’ll tighten or replace loose or frayed wires and make sure connections and batteries are free of corrosion. Drive belts also need to be tightened if they’re loose. Coolant needs to be checked at least every six months and ideally every month.
Yearly load bank tests are a consideration if your generator is older. A load bank test sees if the generator can operate at its full kilowatt output. Even in an emergency, the generator is usually not running at full capacity. In some circumstances the generator only needs to be operating at 30% of its rated load capacity to pass muster.
During a maintenance call we also clean something called the crankcase breather. This appliance vents unwanted gases from the engine in the generator’s crankcase. We may also flush the cooling system if it’s necessary.
Depend on Our Experts for Your Standby Generator Service
Lafayette is a lovely place to live, but like many parts of Louisiana, it is subject to the type of weather conditions that make a standby generator a must. Our licensed and experienced electricians have been proud to serve residents of this town and its surroundings since 1989. We not only maintain generators but also provide such electrical services as EV charger installation, installation of whole-home surge protection, ceiling fan installation, full lighting service, remodeling, and code and compliance upgrades. For assistance, call us at Comeaux Electrical Services today.
