Generators are made to be reliable; however, performance changes from season to season. Factors such as weather, humidity, moisture, airborne contaminants, and usage rates from season to season can affect how well the generator performs. Most owners tend to worry about the generator when there is an outage; however, changes in weather affect the engine and electrical components from season to season. Knowing how changes in weather can help prevent any untimely issues when the generator can most help.

Winter Issues: Cold Starts and Viscous Oil

One of the most challenging weather conditions faced by power generators, including diesel generators, relates to low temperatures. The lower the temperatures, the greater the viscosity of the engine oil, leading to a reduction in the speed at which the oil flows. At low temperatures, the battery power decreases, meaning that the battery does not have the same capability to turn the engine.

Condensation is another problem in the winter that can easily go unnoticed. Sitting idle in the cold, the fuel in the fuel tank or the metal components inside the generator can form condensation. Both of these can lead to corrosion, fuel damage, and performance issues in the long run. Operating the generator from time to time in the cold weather and storing it in a dry location can help prevent these issues.

Spring Conditions: Moisture, Mould and Airborne Pollens

In spring, there are favourable temperatures, but at the same time, there are factors such as increased moisture, rain, and particulates in the air. Moisture can seep into the electrical components, fuel, or filters of the generator if the generator lacks protection. Water in the fuel can cause issues such as stalling or misfiring.

It is also the same period when pollen and dust counts tend to go up. Air filters tend to clog easily, thereby impeding airflow and causing the engine to work under greater stress. Stagnant airflow translates to increased working temperatures and fuel inefficiencies. It is advisable to check the air filters and make sure that the airflow paths stay clear to maintain performance efficiency during spring.

Summertime Heat: Overheating and High Engine Load Capacity

In summertime, the high temperatures exert another kind of pressure on generators. The heat impacts the cooling of the engine, and in cases where the generator is working under direct sunlight or in an enclosed area, it can easily fail to maintain the required working temperatures. Notably, increased heat can lead to reduced performance and diminished engine lifespan.

Dust and dry debris tend to occur in large quantities during the warm season, especially in construction environments, farming, or other external work environments. Although these particles get sucked in through the air intake or accumulate around moving components, cleaning these aspects regularly and taking care to ensure proper airflow around the generator can help alleviate these issues during warm weather.

Autumn Issues: Dropping Leaves & Fuel Degradation

Autumn can certainly be chilly, but the dropping leaves, increased wind, and moistness all factor in to issues with generators. The leaves clog the breathing grills in cooling or exhaust fans. When there isn’t airflow, the engine can overheat despite the cooling weather.

Degradation of fuel can also happen due to seasonal changes. When low temperatures and humidity increase, fuel that has been stored away can start degrading or absorbing water. It can lead to issues in the combustion chamber and starting the generator when it is cold.

Seasonal Care Helps Prevent Breakdowns

Each season comes with its challenges, but there is good news in the fact that most challenges can be avoided through regular checks. These include checking oil conditions, keeping the generator dry, cleaning out any debris, and exercising the generator from time to time. Regular diesel generator maintenance can go a long way in helping keep it in good working condition, and that’s why many people turn to regular maintenance of generators to stay ahead of the game when it comes to challenges posed by different seasons.

Being proactive guarantees that weather conditions do not end up deciding the status of your generator’s health. By taking good care of your generator, you can rest assured that it will work when you need it to.