Backup generators support businesses during power outages and emergencies. While outages in the summertime can result from hurricanes, tornados, and other natural disasters, power interruptions are common in the winter due to snowstorms, frigid temperatures, and high-speed winds.
Industrial generators are incredibly useful during the winter, but they are prone to damage during this seasonal change. What happens when your backup plan fails? How can you mitigate the likelihood of equipment malfunction?
Here are tips for preparing an industrial generator for cold weather.
Run the Generator Regularly
Running your backup power unit regularly is a fantastic idea that significantly benefits its operation during winter. When a generator operates, its internal components remain in motion, providing mechanisms with enough lubrication to seal the unit.
Also, running your generator routinely can provide you with an early look into the unit and catch potential issues before it’s too late. If a unit sits inactive for extended periods, its mechanisms can deteriorate without notice until the moment you depend on backup power.
Perform Preventative Maintenance
Inspect and clean your unit as part of preventative maintenance for a diesel generator. Inspecting your generator is the best practice for evaluating its current condition. After the leaves fall in autumn, your generator may accumulate foliage or twigs in its air vents.
Evaluate wiring and connections to ensure no loose components or signs of corrosion can cause failure. Remember to clean your engine using an air supply to remove dust and dirt gently. This is the ideal time to check all fluid levels and hoses before conducting a load bank test.
Use Winter-Grade Oil
Frigid temperatures may cause oil to thicken, making your unit work harder to transport the substance to the engine. Not only does thick oil contribute to difficulties with the engine, but it also ruins your generator’s internal system.
You can mitigate the detrimental effects of thickened oil by switching to winter-grade oil. This solution is thinner, making it an ideal alternative for winter use. After temperatures warm up, you can return to the standard oil.
As outside temperatures fall and weather conditions shift, you want to ensure your generator can withstand seasonal changes. By following these tips, you can prepare your industrial generator for cold weather and maintain peace of mind knowing your business has a reliable backup power source.
