Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Common Generator Failures & How To Address Them - LEL
Common Generator Failures & How To Address Them - LEL
Businesses rely on electric power to function. If power is disrupted, operations are interrupted and revenues are lost. Many companies
are setting up their facilities with standby power in the form of generators, to protect the bottom line from being impacted by power
disruptions.
But generators are complex machines, and they can fail. Facilities managers need to know the most common causes of failure and
what to do when they occur.
However, “not in auto” may not actually refer to a problem with the main control switch. If an alarm hasn’t been reset, if breakers were
left open, if switchgear was not reset, or if emergency stop buttons have been activated, the “not in auto” message will appear. Because
of this, you may need to check several things. Different models will have different requirements, so you’ll want to refer to your owner’s
manual.
2. BATTERY FAILURE
Battery failure is the most common cause of a generator’s inability to start. And battery failure is most often due to sulfation buildup
(lead sulfates accumulating on the plates of the batteries). When enough of the plate area has sulfated, the battery won’t be able to
provide sufficient current. If your battery failure is the result of sulfation, you’ll need to replace the battery.
Batteries can also fail if the sedimentary trays fill up with lead debris. This problem is easily prevented by replacing the batteries every
three years. Open cells, while not a common occurrence, can also cause battery failure. Open cells are the result of an overcurrent. Your
unit may require larger batteries that are capable of higher cold cranking amps (CCAs).
Battery failure can also happen if the charger breaker is open or tripped. It’s a good idea to double check after any service or
maintenance to make sure the charger was turned back on and that the generator is functioning properly.
Most battery problems can be prevented by maintenance that addresses loose or dirty connections. Cable connections should be
cleaned and tightened regularly. Battery issues due to charger failures, while less common, are difficult to prevent. Monitoring the
charge rates from month to month will help you map the potential for failure, so you can more accurately predict problems. If you see a
constant charge rate, your battery charger is likely working properly. But an increase of amperage signals upcoming problems.
Fuel leaks are commonly caused by overfilling the base tank. This can happen because of human error or a failure in the pump system.
You’ll want to regularly check to make sure the remote tank pump systems and emergency shutoff systems are functioning properly,
and also check the flexible fuel lines regularly to search for cracks or signs of wear.
Coolant leaks often occur in the block heater hoses. Extreme temperatures wear on the hoses — this is why silicon hoses are
recommended for block heaters. You should install isolation ball valves for block heater hose connections, which, in combination with
cooling system maintenance, should prevent most leaks. Always check for leaks during your regular inspections. Also check the hoses
for a crusty substance that indicates seeping.
LEL purchases and sells industrial generators from 50 kW and up. For information on any of our equipment services or talk with an
equipment expert, please call 864-249-0943.
You are first. Always. We seek to serve you with integrity, honesty, and the utmost customer
service.
Our approach is different. Relationship over transaction. We are committed to embracing the
challenge until we have the best solution for you.
WE ARE LEL.
Resources
Blog
Powered by Translate
LEL International © All Rights Reserved.