During winter, widespread power outages can occur without warning. Ice and snow can weigh down power lines and cause them to snap. Rather than allowing your business to rise and fall based on the condition of the local power grid, you need to be prepared. A functional commercial generator is something every business owner should have in place.
Current predictions are that the winter of 2022-2023 will be quite brutal. Before the cold weather arrives, you need to work on getting your commercial generator ready.
Here are some things you can do to prepare your commercial generator for cold weather:
1. Put Your Engine Block Heater To Use
One of the best things you can get for your commercial generator is an engine block heater. The engine block heater, also known as a water jacket heater, will help prevent issues involving the cold from starting. This heater is designed to warm your engine oil when the engine is idle.
Some business owners make the mistake of turning these heaters off in an attempt to save electricity. This will lead to the generator oil getting extremely cold. Extreme cold temperatures can change the viscosity of your oil, which can create flow issues. Cold oil can also activate the low oil sensor, which means the generator will only run for short periods of time before cutting off.
2. Donāt Forget to Run Your Generator Regularly
Letting your commercial generator go unused for months on end during the winter months can lead to several problems. When a commercial generator is cranked and runs, internal moving parts will receive much-needed lubrication. Without this lubrication, these parts can start to go bad over time.
Running your generator regularly can also help prevent carbon buildup around your exhaust. Taking the time to test out your generator will provide you with peace of mind.
3. Keep Your Battery Charged
Cold can adversely affect the lead-acid battery in your generator. Instead of dealing with a dead battery, you need to work on keeping this vital part of your generator charged. You also need to make sure your battery stays warm to prevent damage.
Many business owners use a thermostat-controlled warming blanket to keep the batteries in their generators warm. Taking this precaution can keep your generator functional through the winter months.
4. Use Louvers and Snow Hoods
Allowing frozen precipitation to fall into the various openings on your commercial generator is a horrible idea. Open spots, like your air intake ports, need to be protected from frozen precipitation. One of the best ways to offer this protection is by installing either snow hoods or louvers.
With the addition of these angled slits, you can keep frozen precipitation at bay without cutting off airflow. Working with generator repair professionals is crucial when trying to get these elements installed correctly.
By taking these steps, you can avoid commercial generator problems this winter.