Important Aspects to Generator Longevity

If a generator is properly maintained and cared for it is quite possible it will last longer than the RV itself. Here are a few things to keep in mind to maintain your generator:

Preventive Maintenance: The key to a long lasting generator set is periodic maintenance. When it comes to generator sets we are primarily concerned with two types of maintenance, preventive maintenance and routine maintenance. Both can add years of life to your generator set. Preventive maintenance is maintenance you perform on your generator before a problem exists. These checks are designed to prevent or identify potential problems that could lead to mechanical breakdown, malfunction, or failure of a component or system on your generator. Preventive maintenance consists of cleaning, inspecting, lubricating, adjusting and servicing your generator. Prior to starting your generator you should, at a minimum, inspect the generator set for any fuel or oil leaks, inspect the exhaust system for proper mounting and for leaks and check the oil level. Make sure the CO detector(s) are operating properly and that all appliances are turned off.

 Routine or Scheduled Maintenance: For generator sets scheduled maintenance is performed in intervals based on hours of operation. Scheduled maintenance is designed to keep your generator set in top operating condition and prevent untimely breakdowns and repairs. It is absolutely essential that you read your generator owner’s manual and warranty information in regards to who is responsible for what when it comes to routine and scheduled maintenance. Often times scheduled maintenance that is required and not performed can void your warranty, and shorten the life of your generator set. Monitor the generator hour meter and have the required maintenance performed at specified intervals. Most generator owner manuals have periodic maintenance schedules listed, and maintenance logs to record and keep track of all maintenance performed.

 Exercise your Generator: One important aspect to generator longevity ,often times overlooked, is putting the generator to work. What I mean by that is exercising the generator set on a regular basis. This exercise routine helps solve several generator related problems when it sits unused for periods of time. For starters fuel related problems can occur in as little as one month of sitting idle. In addition to clearing out any stale fuel this monthly exercise regime also lubricates all of the engine seals and helps to prevent carbon build-up. And when you exercise your generator it heats up the generator windings and eliminates moisture build-up. Exercising the generator not only contributes to a more reliable generator, but it extends the life of the engine as well. So, what exactly do I mean when I say exercise your generator? I mean you should start and run the generator with at least a 50% percent load, for at least two hours every month. It is extremely important that you run it with this minimum rated load. Generators are designed to run with a load placed on them. Check your generator owner’s manual for load ratings specific to your generator set. And remember, when exercising the generator it’s always better to let it run longer (2-hour) periods than it is for shorter periods of time.

Generator Operating Conditions: When using your generator you need to consider current weather conditions. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is correct for ambient temperatures. For carbureted gasoline generators make sure the altitude setting is adjusted properly. Always remember to re-adjust altitude settings when you return to lower altitudes. In dusty conditions it will be necessary to perform air cleaner maintenance and change the oil more frequently. Being aware of the operating conditions and performing the required maintenance accordingly will help extend the life of your generator set.

There are gasoline, diesel and LP gas generators. Regardless of the type you own following the recommended maintenance intervals and exercising, operating and storing procedures will add years of reliable service to the generator set. Follow all cautions and warnings found in your generator owner’s manual.

NOTE* Always keep in mind that when operating any generator there is the threat of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

 

Happy RV Learning!
Mark Polk
RV Education 101

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