Like any piece of machinery, generators can experience issues that cause them to fail when you need them most. Breakdowns can be even more of a surprise if you haven’t needed your generator in a while; it may work seamlessly for one outage, then fail to come on during the next outage months later. There are many reasons why your generator might fail, so let’s go through the most common ones and what you can do to prevent them!
The Battery Is Weak or Dead
A weak or dead battery is one of the most common reasons a generator might fail. Like car batteries, generator batteries can lose their charge over time, especially if not used regularly. A weak or dead battery will prevent your generator from starting, leaving you without power when needed most.
Battery failure can also be caused by loose connections or the buildup of lead sulfates on the battery plates. Regular maintenance, including checking the battery’s charge and cleaning the connections, can help prevent this issue.
There’s an Oil, Fuel, or Coolant Leak
Leaks in a generator’s oil, fuel, or coolant systems can lead to severe problems. These leaks often occur slowly and may go unnoticed without regular generator maintenance.
- Coolant leaks: Coolant leaks can cause the engine to overheat, damaging its components and leading to reduced performance or sudden failure.
- Fuel leaks: Fuel leaks are extremely dangerous. They can cause malfunctions and fires, potentially damaging property and posing a safety risk. Regularly inspecting fuel pumps, fuel lines, and storage tanks is essential.
- Oil leaks: Oil leaks can be caused by wet stacking, where oil, fuel, and other liquids build up in the generator’s exhaust pipes. Carbonized fuel injection tips and faulty crankcase breathers can also cause this.
If your generator is not working, you can visually inspect it for any signs of leaks, but to avoid further damage or safety hazards, leave the diagnosis and repair to professionals.
The Unit Has Water Damage or Corrosion
Water damage and corrosion are also common causes of generator failure. Water accumulating on the unit’s exterior can cause rust, leading to corroded wires and impeded electrical connections. Water inside the engine can corrode parts, promote bacterial growth, clog filters, and cause engine damage.
If a generator is left with a partially filled fuel tank for a long time, water damage can occur due to condensation. Regular maintenance performed by a trained professional will allow you to catch and prevent water damage before it impedes your generator.
Check your generator for any visible signs of water damage or corrosion, but do not attempt to open or repair the unit yourself. Professional technicians have the tools and expertise to handle these issues safely and effectively.
Contact Isaac for Help With Your Generator Today
If you are experiencing issues with your generator, call Isaac Heating & Air Conditioning for expert generator repair. Our licensed and certified technicians are trained to service all brands of generators and will be able to quickly diagnose the problem. As a family-owned and -operated business since 1945, we offer free estimates on replacement quotes, upfront pricing, and financing options to make the process as smooth as possible.
If you need generator repair in Western New York, Central New York, the Finger Lakes, or the Southern Tier, contact the Isaac Heating & Air Conditioning team to schedule service.