As temperatures drop, so can generator system reliability. With a little understanding and increased diligence, combating the effects of cold weather on the emergency system you depend on, can go a long way. Below are just a few helpful tips to help you optimize system reliability.
Batteries: The #1 Cause for System Failure.
Like your car, if your battery is not properly maintained, charged, and cared for, you can find yourself in an easily preventable and unfortunate situation.
- Be sure to check your battery charger on a weekly basis
- Know what lights and gauges are “normal” for your system
- If you have maintainable batteries, ensure the water levels are well above the battery plates
- Make sure your battery date code does not exceed 36 months
Emergency calls have decreased dramatically since LionHeart adopted the 36 month battery replacement recommendation.
Jacket Water Heaters: The Key to Ensure Successful, Cold Weather Starts.
A typical heater installation is quite simple. The system consists of a heater (like your homes water heater) and a thermostat. As the heater works, the hot water will rise out of the upper hose and into the engine. The rise in hot water causes a vacuum in the heater that now sucks colder water (coolant) to enter the heater.
The thermostat is typically located at the heater inlet and is typically set to around 100°F. Once the inlet water temperature satisfies the thermostat, the heater will turn off. Most control systems have a low water temperature alarm which is typically set to 70°F. This alarm means one of two things:
- The heater has failed
- The heater cannot keep the water above 70°F in extreme cold weather
Be sure to become familiar with the normal operation of your system.
Fuel + Oil: Critical to the Operation of Generators in an Emergency.
- Diesel Fuel: make sure the fuel level in your main tank is above ½
- Natural Gas: keep snow away from the generator enclosure and all gas line components, specifically your gas regulator (the regulator has a small vent and if clogged with snow, the regulator will not operate properly)
- Get familiar with vent locations to ensure it is never blocked or clogged
- Be sure to check oil and coolant levels
Run + Monitor Generator Weekly.
LionHeart offers free training, virtual or on-site, to assist in the operation of your critical power system. We help establish the best operation protocols and safety standards for your team!
Our expert and EGSA certified Field Service Technician are here ensure your site has power 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Contact us for your critical power needs at info@LHCPS.com or 844-LHPOWER.
