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Generator Installation & Repair
Need to install or repair a generator? Call (516) 671-3232 for professional repair and replacement service.
Having a generator on hand lends peace of mind in case of a weather emergency or other power interruption. It’s important to keep your generator in good working condition so that it’s available at a moment’s notice, should power be needed. While regular maintenance will keep your generator operating at its optimal best, there are some common problems and signs that indicate special attention may be necessary. Whether you are a homeowner or commercial property manager, look to your premier Generac dealer, Maccarone Plumbing for professional repairs or replacements in Long Island and Five Boroughs.
When Do You Need to Replace Your Generator?
One sign that a generator is showing its age is an increased need for repair. This constant need for repair might cost more in the long run than installing a new model.
Another factor to keep in mind is that while your generator may work at optimal capacity, energy requirements in your property may increase, requiring an upgrade to a new generator with a larger energy output.
What are Common Generator Problems?
It is in the generator’s best interest to only run it for about 48 hours before letting it rest. Running it for longer can cause its engine to overheat, leading to a host of problems.
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Leaks: Leaking is one of the most common problems generators face. Not only can the oil or fuel lines spring a leak, but the coolant that circulates to reduce engine block temperature is also prone to leakage as the coolant fuel lines are subjected to intense heat from the engine block. Overfilling your generator can also lead to leaking, so it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on fuel levels when it’s time to top up your unit.
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Faulty fuel level gauge: Fuel level gauges can sometimes malfunction, leading to an incorrect estimate of how much fuel is in the system. This can lead to the unit running dry, much like a gas tank in your car.
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Idleness: If your generator is not getting a regular workout, it can have trouble starting once you do need it. As your unit sits unused, air can work its way into the system, blocking fluids from flowing or causing engine parts to stick in one position. Fuel can also “go bad” if it has been sitting in the unit for too long, especially if it is diesel fuel; this leads to difficulty in starting the generator or maintaining its ability to run.
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Worn valves: Another common cause of a generator failing to start is that the valves in the engine may have worn to the point where they no longer maintain necessary fuel levels in the engine.
How Long Do Generators Typically Last?
Generators differ in terms of their energy output, fuel needs, and life expectancy. Generally speaking, diesel fuel-operated units have a longer life expectancy than their gasoline-powered counterparts. Generators running on diesel fuel can run for up to 30,000 hours before needing maintenance, while gas-powered generators may run only 10,000 hours before needing a checkup. Industrial units also last far longer than generators designed for home use.
Determining which kind of generator you have and how long it has been used will give some indication as to how long you can expect it to operate efficiently before it will need to be replaced.
Whether you need to repair or replace your generator, give us a call at (516) 671-3232 for immediate service at upfront rates.