Common reasons a Generator might fail and how to fix it.

 Every backup generator needs some degree of preventive maintenance. If proper care is not taken, there may be several reasons that it may perform optimally. The most common issues are listed below.

1. AUTO START FEATURE IS OFF  :-

      Sometimes due to negligence, the Auto Start switch may be in OFF position, in that case, the generator will not start automatically if a power outage happens. It is important for you to understand the basic features of the control panel of your generator. You should also be aware of the 'alarms' which trips the generator.  

2. THE BATTERY IS DEAD :-

      Battery failure is the single most common reason of generator fails. It is better to replace the battery every three years. To keep the battery in good shape following the recommendations given below will help. 

• Strictly follow the battery maintenance routine prescribed by the manufacturer.
• Petroleum jelly should be applied on the terminal / cable clamp. Never use grease.
• The electrolyte level should be maintained between the Min & Max lines.
• Topping up should be done with distilled water only.
• Keep the vent holes clean.
• Never install a lower capacity battery than recommended.
• Do not disconnect the battery when the generator is running.

3. FUEL LEVEL IS LOW :-

       All generators have built-in alarms to mark low-fuel levels. Add fuel to the fuel tank if there is a low fuel alarm. Running the generator with low fuel can be very harmful in the long run. There is a chance of air entry in the fuel lines if the generator is continuously run on low fuel. The entrapped air in the fuel lines will cause many complications. 

4. LEAKAGE IN THE GENERATOR:- 

      If you notice any leakage in the generator, it is better to call an authorized technician. Sometimes a leakage like appearance can be noticed if the generator is not in use for a long time. This happens due to wet stacking. This happens when carbon, unburnt fuel, lubricating oil and moisture is accumulated. When this happens, run the generator for a few hours and the wet stacking will simply burn off.   

If the information given above is not enough to fix your problem, then you must contact the manufacturer of the authorized service dealer.

To know more about our products visit us at www.mahindrapowerol.com or talk to our expert technicians at 1800-419-1999  

Renting vs Buying a generator

 Once the sizing of the generator is done, the next big question is whether to buy a new generator or take one on rent. Well, there is no right or wrong answer to this question. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider before making a decision. After considering all the points, you can decide which one is the most suitable option.

Advantages of renting a generator:-

•   Renting a generator takes only a fraction of the cost of buying a new genset. If you have a limited budget, then renting is the best option.

• Rental providers take care of the maintenance and repair of generator throughout the rental period. Therefore, no maintenance hassles and minimum risk of downtime. 

• It offers the flexibility of generator size. Once a particular project is over a different rating of a generator can be chosen for the next project. 

• Rental generators are designed as a plug and play option. It does not require detailed installation planning as the permanent installations do.

• Renting is a good option if the generator is needed for a short duration. If long periods of renting are required, better to calculate the renting cost beforehand. If the total renting cost approaches closer to the purchase cost, then buying will be the better option. 

Advantages of buying a generator:-

• The prime reason for buying a genset is the need for long term use. Here are the major advantages.

• You will own the asset and not bind by any rental agreement. You can resell your asset anytime.

• In large projects where generator requirement is for many months, the rental cost of a big commercial generator will reach the purchase price quickly. Obviously, in such cases, buying may be the right option.

To summarize, a sufficient amount of homework and calculation has to be done before making the decision of buying or renting a generator. Choosing the right vendor is also an important decision to make. Do check the background of the vendor and check the customer feedback. 

Mahindra Powerol is in the business for more than a decade. We can help you in making the decision. For any query, you can call us at 1800-419-1999 or visit our website at:- www.mahindrapowerol.com

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