We Buy Your Generator

Generator Maintenance

Categories

Recently Added Products

See Our Available Generators

Huge Range Of Generators Available

Like any appliance in your home or business, generators require regular maintenance to ensure that they are working as they should be and able to manage the load they are expected to. The regular maintenance of a generator is a preventative measure, helping to avoid unnecessary breakdowns and repairs.

With the right TLC, your generator will last you for years to come, ensuring that routine maintenance is carried out increases the lifespan of your generator by nearly 50%. If you aren’t sure how best to maintain your generator, have no fear because we are here! The team at Bellwood Rewinds have years of experience and a wealth of knowledge when it comes to all things generators, so read our expert view on generator maintenance.

Tips for maintaining a generator

When you are looking for tips on maintaining a generator, look no further. The hints and tips from our generator experts are perfect for individuals and businesses alike.

Tip 1 – Change the Oil

The most important aspect of generator maintenance is changing the oil regularly, just as you would your vehicle. The team here recommended changing the oil of your generator every 50 to 200 hours based on a number of factors. Some of the factors affecting how often the oil should be changed are:

  • The generator brand you have
  • How often your generator is used
  • What environment do you use the generator in

However, newer generator models may require fewer oil changes as they burn cleaner than some of the older models, while operating your generator in a dusty environment may require more frequent oil changes as the dust particles can gather with the oil and lead to blockages.

Tip 2 – Keep it Clean

Within the generator, the rotor and stator play crucial roles in the generation of electricity. These components work in tandem to convert mechanical energy into electrical power. However, during operation, it’s not uncommon for these parts to accumulate dust and debris. Excessive buildup can hamper the generator’s efficiency and increase the risk of premature wear and tear. To prevent these issues, regular maintenance is essential.

Cleaning the air filters is a simple yet effective way to eliminate dust and debris from the generator’s internals. We recommend inspecting and cleaning the filters on a weekly basis, regardless of usage frequency. For generators located in dusty environments, such as construction sites or rural areas, more frequent filter checks and cleanings are advisable to ensure optimal performance and longevity. By maintaining clean air filters, you can enhance the efficiency and reliability of your generator, minimising the risk of downtime and costly repairs in the long run.

Tip 3 – Start the Generator

The majority of generators that people own are there as a backup if the power fails, but what would you do if your backup generator failed? Because a generator is generally used as a backup power supply, they can sometimes go months if not years without powering on, so to ensure that the generator is able to start up when you need it in an emergency we recommend starting it up to:

  • Ensure it is getting lubricated with oil
  • Charge the batteries
  • The carburettor is functioning well

However, the most important aspect of starting the generator is to ensure it works and you have access to power in an emergency.

Tip 4 – Load Bank Testing

Load bank testing is a critical aspect of generator maintenance, serving as a comprehensive assessment of your backup power supply’s capabilities. By subjecting the generator to simulated loads, load bank testing evaluates its performance under real-world conditions, ensuring its readiness to handle the demands of a power outage.

We highly recommend conducting load bank tests annually to proactively identify any underlying issues and ensure peak performance. These tests provide invaluable insights into the generator’s functionality and can detect minor problems before they escalate into major issues. By addressing potential issues early on, you can prevent costly downtime and mitigate the risk of equipment failure when you need backup power the most. With regular load bank testing, you can have confidence in the reliability and effectiveness of your generator, ensuring uninterrupted power supply during emergencies.

Tip 5 – Store it Properly

Should you have a portable generator, one of the most important aspects of generator maintenance is the correct storage of the appliance, especially after it has been used. Our generator experts recommended:

  • Ensuring the fuel tank is empty
  • Ensure fuel lines are empty
  • Store in a cool dry place to avoid rusting and increase the lifespan

Additional generator protection, such as generator sheds, tents and covers can be purchased separately to ensure your generator has the maximum protection when in storage. Following the above guidelines and investing in extra protection can prevent any timely and costly repairs to your generator.

Can I maintain my own generator?

Individuals are able to maintain their own generator, however, with a business, we always recommend using an approved and trained contractor. If you are looking to maintain your own generator we advise you to:

  • Change the fuel and store it safely after each use
  • Weekly air filter checks
  • Start the generator up on a monthly basis

However, while implementing backup power solutions like generators can provide invaluable support during outages, ensuring their continued performance and reliability requires regular maintenance and professional oversight. To maintain optimal functionality and longevity, it’s highly recommended to enlist the expertise of a qualified generator professional for yearly maintenance checks.

A generator professional possesses the specialised knowledge and skills necessary to thoroughly inspect and assess all components of the generator system. From the engine and fuel system to the electrical components and control systems, a comprehensive maintenance check involves a meticulous examination of various aspects to identify any potential issues or areas of concern.

One of the critical tasks performed during yearly maintenance is checking and adjusting fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and fuel. Proper lubrication and cooling are essential for the smooth operation of the engine and to prevent overheating or component failure. Additionally, inspecting the fuel system ensures that the generator has a clean and reliable fuel supply, free from contaminants that could compromise performance.

Electrical components such as wiring, connections, and circuit breakers are also scrutinised to ensure they are in good condition and properly functioning. Loose connections or damaged wiring can lead to electrical faults or malfunctions, posing safety risks and potentially causing damage to the generator or connected equipment.

Furthermore, a generator professional will perform load bank testing to simulate real-world operating conditions and verify the generator’s capacity and performance. This test helps identify any issues related to load handling and ensures that the generator can meet the demands of critical loads during power outages.

Beyond these technical aspects, a generator professional can also provide valuable insights and recommendations for optimising the efficiency and reliability of the system. Whether it’s implementing preventive maintenance schedules, upgrading outdated components, or enhancing system monitoring capabilities, their expertise can help maximise the value and performance of your generator investment.

In conclusion, while generators are indispensable assets for ensuring uninterrupted power supply, their effectiveness relies heavily on regular maintenance and professional oversight. By entrusting yearly maintenance tasks to qualified professionals, businesses can rest assured that their generators will continue to perform at optimal levels, providing reliable backup power when it’s needed most.

Some of the generator brands we maintain..

At Bellwood Rewinds, we provide a professional generator maintenance service designed to keep your equipment operating at peak performance. With years of experience in the industry, our skilled technicians are well-versed in servicing a wide range of generator brands, ensuring your power systems remain reliable and efficient. Whether it’s for routine maintenance, repairs, or thorough inspections, our team is equipped to handle everything from small residential units to large-scale industrial generators. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your generator but also minimises the risk of unexpected breakdowns, ensuring you have dependable power when you need it most. Below is an overview of the brands we commonly service:

  • Pramac: Known for their versatility and efficiency, Pramac generators are suitable for a wide range of residential and commercial applications.
  • Hyundai: Hyundai generators are valued for their compact design and reliable performance, making them a popular choice for portable and backup power.
  • Kohler SDMO: A trusted name in power generation, Kohler SDMO generators are robust and reliable, offering exceptional performance in demanding environments.
  • Genmac: Genmac generators are built tough for heavy-duty applications, providing durability and stability in harsh conditions.
  • CAT: Renowned for their industrial power solutions, CAT generators deliver unmatched durability and high power output for large-scale operations.
  • GFE: GFE generators offer cost-effective power solutions, ideal for a range of applications from construction sites to emergency backup power.
  • Stephill: Lightweight and portable, Stephill generators are perfect for tradesmen and professionals needing dependable power on the go.
  • Honda: Featuring advanced technology and fuel efficiency, Honda generators are known for their quiet operation and dependable performance.
  • Cummins: Cummins generators provide powerful, dependable performance, making them a popular choice for both standby and prime power applications.
  • FG Wilson: Preferred for critical standby applications, FG Wilson generators are engineered to deliver reliable power when it’s needed most.
  • Aggreko: Specialising in large-scale power solutions, Aggreko generators are used for everything from events to large industrial projects.
  • Himoinsa: With a focus on energy efficiency and innovative design, Himoinsa generators are reliable for continuous power supply and emergency backup.
  • Generac: Generac generators are widely used for residential and commercial standby power, known for their ease of use and robust performance.
  • Duromax: Duromax generators are appreciated for their flexibility and reliability, making them suitable for a variety of power needs in different environments.

With expertise across these leading brands, you can trust Bellwood Rewinds to provide top-notch maintenance and service for all your generator needs.