Generator Repair: Common Generator Issues and How to Fix Them
You’ve likely experienced a power outage at some point. Perhaps you lost power at home or you work in a non-hospital setting where you lost power for multiple days. Either way, it wasn’t fun.
One way to help prevent power outages is by having a standby power generator. Generators function as essential backups when the power goes out. However, depending on how often your generator runs, certain issues can arise.
So if you’re thinking about getting a standby power generator, then you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ll discuss common generator problems and what generator repair strategies to use.
Insufficient Fuel and Air Supply
Low fuel creates combustion issues, resulting in performance issues. A rushed start or a low fuel level in the tank can cause air suction to be reduced. This causes the generator to run in a ‘rich’ air/fuel mixture, resulting in poor combustion and black smoke from the exhaust.
The most efficient way to resolve this issue is to replace the existing fuel with fresh fuel. Then, you need to recalibrate the idle speed to factory-specified settings.
Additionally, if the fuel system has not been serviced for some time, replace the existing fuel filter and spark plug. You should also inspect the fuel lines for any blockages. You need to ensure that the air supply to the carburetor is not obstructed in any way.
Improper Voltage Settings
Unexpected load changes or incorrect connections could cause the voltage levels to suddenly surge or sink. In either of these cases, the generator will not be able to generate sufficient power to run the equipment.
To fix this issue, the generator’s voltage selector should be adjusted to the desired setting. It is also important to perform regular maintenance on the generator to check and adjust the voltage levels if the need arises. In cases of excessive voltage variances, have a qualified generator repair service check it for any failures.
Misfiring
Misfiring is usually caused by problems in the spark plugs, spark plug wires, or distributor cap and rotor. A misfiring generator can cause rough engine operation and poor fuel economy.
To fix the issue, make sure all the spark plugs, spark plug wires, and distributor caps are in good condition. If they are ok, then check that the ignition timing is correct. If it is incorrect, then adjust it. If it doesn’t help, then you need to replace the crankshaft position.
Carbon Buildup
Carbon buildup is a common issue for generators. If left unaddressed, it could lead to heating of generator components and regular shut down of the generator. Eventually, you’ll need to search for “generator installation near me” to replace it.
So to address carbon buildup, it’s important to first inspect the generator and spark plugs for any visible signs of carbon deposits. If any are visible, you need to replace the spark plugs and clean the carbon deposits with a brush or a towel.
If All Else Fails, Look for Generator Repair Services
A generator is an important tool to have working efficiently in many home and business environments. Though they are sturdy pieces of equipment, common issues can arise and need to be addressed properly and swiftly.
Understanding common generator issues and how to fix them can prevent the need for expensive repairs or replacements. So be sure to consult with professional generator repair services. Regularly check your generator for any unseen issues to ensure its optimum performance.
For more helpful articles, check out the rest of our site now.
