Many businesses rely on a diesel generator as part of their backup power infrastructure to get them through severe winter weather and associated power outages. To make sure a backup generator will work when it is needed, it’s important to perform regular maintenance and testing. Diesel generators are known to be durable and reliable, but even the most robust unit will benefit from proper maintenance and preparation to ensure it functions optimally during extreme weather events.
With winter upon us again, now is the time to implement a generator preparedness routine. Following these five diesel generator winter preparation tips can safeguard your business from power outages, even in the harshest winter weather.
Tip 1: Prioritize Battery Health
Batteries are one of the most critical components in a diesel generator. Extreme weather — especially very cold conditions — can negatively impact battery performance. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to keep batteries healthy.
First, monitor your batteries’ age. The longer a battery has been in service, the more it loses its capacity to store and deliver electrical power. Replace batteries every three years, or sooner if recommended by your generator’s manufacturer. Next, incorporate regular battery testing into your generator maintenance routines. The sooner you can identify potential issues like decreased capacity or lower resistance, the better.
If your business is in a region that experiences harsh winters, take steps to shield batteries from extreme cold. You can insulate the generator’s battery compartment or even invest in a battery heater to mitigate the effects of sub-zero temperatures.
Tip 2: Store Fuel in a Warm Environment
Diesel fuel is notorious for “gelling” in extremely cold weather. As temperatures plummet, the fuel thickens and loses its fluidity until it resembles a gel more than a liquid. Gelled fuel can prevent a diesel generator from starting, as it can’t flow through the engine’s fuel system.
Storing diesel fuel in a warm, dry environment helps prevent condensation and water contamination, two factors that lead to gelling. You can also purchase winter-grade fuel that contains additives to lower its freezing point so it can endure particularly long stretches of extreme weather.
Make fuel testing a part of your periodic maintenance schedule. A simple test kit can check the fuel’s water content and alert you to the presence of other contaminants.
Tip 3: Invest in an Engine Coolant Heater
Diesel generator engines can withstand a wide range of temperatures, thanks to the engine coolant they use. However, extremely cold temperatures push engine coolant to its limits. If the coolant freezes, it places your generator’s engine at risk of rough starts or overheating.
An engine coolant heater helps keep the coolant’s temperature above freezing, ensuring you get easier starts and better performance in frigid conditions. Alternatively, insulating the generator housing can often retain enough heat to keep engine coolant from freezing. Implement one of these solutions to reduce the risk of engine issues when you need your generator most.
Tip 4: Remove Snow and Ice Accumulation
Snow and ice can block a diesel generator’s air intake and exhaust vents, obstructing airflow and increasing the risk of engine damage. Although running your generator regularly can help melt snow and ice, heavy snowstorms could still leave you with significant accumulation.
Make snow and ice removal a regular winter maintenance task. Double up on this step during harsh snowstorms to ensure proper airflow the next time the generator starts up. If your business is located in a region that gets heavy snowfall every winter, consider installing a snow hood for extra protection.
Tip 5: Exercise Your Generator With Regular Testing
Long periods of inactivity can be rough on mechanical and electrical equipment. This is especially true for a diesel generator. Not exercising your generator can lead to stale fuel, seized components, batteries with degraded charge, rusted metal components, and more serious problems.
The best way to exercise your diesel generator is to perform regular testing under a full load. Testing in real-world conditions goes a long way toward eliminating component failure. Develop a load testing schedule appropriate for your region. Consider monthly load testing if your business is located in an area that typically sees heavy snowstorms or extreme cold.
Bonus Tip: Partner With an Experienced Team
In the world of business, each new year brings new trends and developments. One thing remains consistent, though: extreme weather. Your business continuity plan must kick into action when snow, ice, flooding, or storms lead to power outages. Diesel generator winter preparation is critical, and the above five tips will help. But you don’t have to go it alone.
Since 2004, Global Power Supply has offered comprehensive backup power solutions tailored to each customer’s needs. We do more than sell diesel generators and related power equipment; we engineer custom designs and provide maintenance support to help ensure your business continuity. When you partner with the experienced team at Global Power Supply, you’re always prepared for extreme weather conditions. To learn more, contact us today.