5 Reasons Why Generators Fail To Start

Power Failures happens for many reasons: poor weather conditions, damage to transmission lines or an overloaded power station. Due to these reasons, many governments and business organizations have backup generators to ensure normal operation while the issue is rectified. Generators are essential to power equipment to provide an “insurance plan” in case of power failures and offers peace of mind. It is critical for organizations to understand how to keep their power equipment maintained, as lack of operational knowledge or maintenance will result in failure at the time when needed most.

In order to ensure that a generator is working well in the event of power failure. It is essential to know some of the reasons why generators fail.

1. Battery Failure

This is the most common reason for generator failure. More than 80% of generator battery failure is related to sulfation buildup or by loose connections. Many battery problems are also caused by dirt, therefore maintenance is important. Our experts at Biles Electric recommend replacing the generator’s battery every two to three years to reduce the risk of battery failure.

2. Control Setting Errors

Generators also fail to start because of the control settings errors. “Control Setting errors” are the result of human error. If you do not follow a proper resetting procedure, a control error could also result in a fault shutdown. This situation usually occurs after servicing or testing of a generator. So, it is important to know the system and what it does after a fault shutdown.

3. Insufficient Coolant

The main cause for an insufficient coolant level is either an internal or external leak. You Should pay attention to any visible splash of coolant around the generator. Mostly, generators are designed to stop operating when they become too hot. If a generator has insufficient coolant, it will not operate for a long time and could shut down, as a result of the failure.

4. Empty Fuel Tank

This is another major common reason that caused generator failure. Fuel gauges and stuck fuel gauges that calculate fuel level in the tank incorrectly commonly is the main cause of empty fuel tank. The empty fuel tank can also result from testing a generator on a monthly basis without checking the fuel level.

5. Low Coolant Temp Alarms

The main cause of low coolant temp alarms are fault block heaters and unfortunately block heaters fail to operate periodically. Monthly inspections should also include checking engine thermostat or cylinder head for temperature and also verifying that block heaters and engine hoses are hot or not.

How to Fix a Generator Problem?

The best way to quickly solve a generator problem is to have an expert perform a generator inspection. At Biles Electric, we provide an affordable generator, plumbing and heating services and more in New Jersey. If your generator stops operating or fails to start, our highly skilled experts can perform an emergency inspection in a short time and fix your problem.

Looking for repair needs in New Jersey? Get in touch with us today!