Why Your Commercial Generator Is Overheating And When To Call A Generator Repair Service | Dillon, SC
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, power outages cost businesses around $150 billion annually. That’s why backup generators have become increasingly popular and necessary for many businesses in Dillon, SC.
But as with every machine and equipment, backup generators can malfunction over time and need to be repaired. An overheating generator is a common issue requiring the attention of a generator repair service provider.
Modern commercial generators are very durable, and it is very unlikely that they will burn and explode due to overheating. But continuous overheating will reduce the generator’s life and cause it to malfunction more often. That’s why you must know what causes a generator to overheat and how to go about it.
Overloading
Commercial generators have particular wattage limits. If you exceed those limits, the engine will have to work harder. This usually occurs when you plug too many appliances into the generator or use equipment that exceeds the maximum wattage. Overloading can also happen if the load is irregular.
A simple solution is to unplug appliances and equipment, reset the generator, and only connect the appliances you need most. You will need to call a generator repair service if this does not fix the issue.
There could be a wiring problem or other technical issues. If the energy demands of your business have increased, you should look for a bigger generator.
Low Coolant and Oil Levels
Internal or external leaks, problems in the circulation system, and human error could cause the coolant levels to drop. The coolant helps the generator stay cool while it is running and ensures that the engine always remains warm enough to spring into action when needed immediately.
Engine oil is necessary to keep all moving parts of the engine running smoothly. When oil levels drop, it will cause friction between the mechanical parts and will cause them to wear out faster.
Always ensure correct coolant and oil levels and only use the recommended brands. Oil also needs to be changed on a regular basis as it becomes less effective with time. If you notice any leaks, immediately call a generator repair service provider. Oil leaks can be dangerous as they could cause a fire.
Dirty Fuel And Oil Filters
Fuel and oil filters remove sediment and other fuel debris to prevent the engine from clogging. Over time the dirt accumulates and reduces oil and fuel distribution. This will cause the engine to overheat and can result in extensive damage.
Make sure to complete regular maintenance by your generator repair service. It doesn’t take long, and they will be able to detect problems early on before your generator suffers irreparable damage.
Dust
Your commercial generator is probably placed somewhere far away and out of sight. While that might be necessary to comply with noise regulations, leaving it to accumulate dust and debris will cause problems.
Accumulated dust can enter the engine and cause clogs. It will also prevent average heat dissipation, causing the generator to overheat.
You can ask a generator repair service provider for a special protective covering if the generator is outside. Those coverings will keep the engine clean but will not prevent heat from escaping. Ensure the generator is regularly cleaned, but follow safety precautions to avoid electrical shocks.
Broken Cooling Fan
While some generators have a liquid cooling system that uses oil and coolant, some have an air cooling system. Air-cooling systems cool a generator by circulating air around the engine. A cooling fan can break due to high tension, wiring problems, and normal wear and tear.
You need to call a generator repair service to replace the fan if that happens. They might have to replace the whole fan system if there are wiring and other problems. If the air filter or radiator is blocked, it will also cause the generator to overheat.
Blocked or Damaged Exhaust
If the exhaust is blocked or damaged, the hot air will circulate back into the generator and cause it to overheat. If the generator is placed in a closed area, there will not be enough room for the exhaust to dissipate the fumes. Soot and chemicals will accumulate and cause a blockage.
It would be best to place the generator outside where there is plenty of room for ventilation. Keep the area around the exhaust free. If you must keep the generator indoors, closely monitor emission levels to prevent dangerous fumes from circulating in the building.
According to the CDC, at least 430 people die yearly from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. You should call a generator repair service if you see excessive smoke coming from the exhaust. This indicates that there is a more severe problem with the engine.
External Temperature Too High
This can happen if the generator is used outside in direct sunlight or during warm and humid weather. High temperatures can affect combustion and cause the engine to overheat. Hot air will compromise the effectiveness of an air-cooling system. The heat emitted by other equipment near the generator can also cause it to overheat.
When you first set up your generator, enlist the professional services of a generator repair service in Dillon, SC. They will help you choose the best location for your unit that is in keeping with regulations but will also ensure enough air circulation to avoid overheating. If you are using the generator outside, consider placing it under a shed to protect it from the sun.
Do You Have Generator Problems? Call Mister Sparky Generators.
Suppose you are looking for a generator repair service or a new backup generator to boost your business in Dillon, SC. In that case, Mister Sparky Generators has all the answers that you need.
We have been serving businesses around Myrtle Beach for many years and have garnered a reputation for reliability and excellent workmanship. We install, repair, and service generators of various types and brands and provide generator emergency services. Contact Mister Sparky Generators today.