Know Why Your Generator Refuses to Start And How to Avoid Them

When the power goes out, we rely on generators. From hospitals to businesses, the ability to keep electrical appliances running is crucial. That's why it's especially frustrating when your generator fails to start. Patients go without necessary care, perishables start to spoil, and businesses lose valuable sales. Proper generator maintenance is key to keeping operations running smoothly in Oman. By understanding common issues and their warning signs, you can take proactive measures to prevent them. And by knowing how to troubleshoot and fix malfunctions, you can minimise downtime. In this article, we will discuss the five common reasons why generators face issues and practical solutions to keep your generator running when you need it most.

Not Enough Coolant

The cooling system of your generator set is an unsung hero, working hard behind the scenes to prevent engine overheating. However, if the fluid levels are running low, the engine can result in serious damage, leading to mechanical breakdowns that will leave you in a bind. And even if you are confident that you're adding enough coolant, there could still be a leak that's causing your generator to overheat. Be alert and resolve the issue before turning on your generator.

When it comes to refilling your generator's coolant, don't just wing it. Take heed of your manufacturer's recommendations and follow them. Typically, it's recommended that you replace the coolant every six months to maintain optimal cooling performance and prevent corrosion of the cooling system.

Low Fuel Level

The power goes out, and you're ready to start up your generator. You flip the switch, but nothing happens. Sound familiar? One of the most common reasons for this issue is something we often overlook: fuel levels. Without sufficient fuel, your generator won't even turn on. And if you haven't used your generator in a while, old fuel can clog up your tank or cause a hard start. To avoid these problems, it's important to replace old fuel every few months and ensure your tank is properly filled.

But what if your tank is full, and your generator still isn't working? The issue may be too much air in the fuel system. In this case, it's crucial to drain the air from the fuel system before attempting to start up your generator again.

Neglected Maintenance

Many users fail to give their generators the maintenance they need, leading to many issues down the line. Without regular upkeep and preventative measures, your engine components will experience significant wear and tear, leaving you with a headache and costly repairs. The key to avoiding these headaches is simple: regular engine maintenance.

To keep your generator running like a well-oiled machine, it's essential to follow the manufacturer and distributor's recommendations for routine maintenance, both semi-annually and annually. By creating a generator maintenance plan, you can nip potential problems in the bud and avoid costly breakdowns.

Wrong sizing and load

In Oman, it's common for businesses to go big when it comes to industrial generators, assuming that a larger size will meet all their future needs. Unfortunately, this 'bigger is better mentality can backfire, resulting in inefficiencies and potential damage to your equipment. Running a generator with a light load is a no-go, as it can cause serious issues and undermine your generator's performance. It's recommended to use at least 35% of your generator's load capacity during operation. Running a generator that's too large can lead to many issues like wet stacking, which can be a real headache to fix. To avoid these issues, it's crucial to choose the right generator size for your needs. It's better to be realistic about your power requirements than to overestimate and end up with an expensive choice. With a properly sized generator and a little foresight, you can ensure reliable and efficient power generation for your business.

Discharged Battery

To ensure your generator runs smoothly, it's important to regularly check the battery voltage on the control panel. If the voltage is below the manufacturer's recommendations, your engine may fail to start. Additionally, if your generator has been in storage for a long period of time, it's essential to inspect the battery as it may have become discharged over time.

For generators equipped with a recoil starter, it's advisable to use it temporarily to start the engine. Once the engine is running, you can then charge the electric starter battery through the outlet. However, if your generator set lacks a recoil starter, you may need to charge the battery using third-party chargers. Alternatively, you can jump-start the battery with a jumper cable, or seek the assistance of a professional for the generator repair.

Need Help?

Neglecting generator maintenance is a leading cause of starting issues. A simple task, like cleaning a dirty air filter, carburettor, or fuel valve, is often overlooked by users. By regularly inspecting and replacing your oil, fuel, and coolant levels, you can avoid this problem and extend the lifespan of your generator.

In case of generator repair or maintenance needs, it's wise to seek help from a leading generator maintenance company in Oman. Al-Kiyumi, a trusted integrator and provider of information technology and power solutions in Muscat, Oman, is well-equipped to handle all your generator repair and maintenance needs. Our reliable and efficient services will ensure that your generator is always in top-notch condition, ready to deliver the power you need.

Don't let a lack of generator maintenance cause downtime or costly repairs. Get in touch with Al-Kiyumi today to learn more about our comprehensive solutions and services, including those related to generator repair and maintenance.