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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

The Lifespan of a Commercial Generator

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

Wood floor damage in a Corinth, TX home

A prudent move for business owners in Corinth, TX, is to keep a commercial generator on standby in case of a power outage that results from a storm or an accident. Because its purchase is likely to be a significant investment, it is worth looking into questions about its probable lifespan.

Variables to Consider

Though it is impossible to pinpoint how long your machine is likely to last, statistics offer some useful information. The number of hours of use is a prime consideration in estimating how long it will remain operational.

  1. Typically, you can expect a gaseous or diesel-powered generator to operate between 10,000 to 30,000 hours; this translates to 20-30 years.
  2. Regular maintenance will keep the machine in good condition; the schedule is determined by how often and for how long it is used.
  3. The environmental conditions where it is kept will affect its lifespan. Extremes in temperature and humidity will determine how often it requires maintenance.

Extending its Life

To avoid generator problems, which can be particularly vexing when you need it most, regular inspection and service are vital. A suggested schedule breaks down as follows:

  • On a weekly basis, briefly run it and check fuel levels as well as auto start-up and circuit breaker statuses. Look for evidence of leaks.
  • On a monthly basis, check the condition of the battery charger and the levels of engine oil and coolant.
  • On a bi-annual basis, inspect the enclosure, wiring, drive belts, coolant heater, piping, connections and exhaust system. Check the battery, cables, coolant lines and air cleaner units. Look for oil, fuel or coolant leaks.
  • On an annual basis, change the fuel, air and oil filters and the spark plugs. Flush the coolant. Perform load testing, and for diesel units, test fuel and remove any water from the fuel tank.

With consistently performed maintenance, your generator should be ready when you need it. It is an investment that could pay for itself in doing its part to keep the doors to your business open when disaster strikes.

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