Cleaning diesel generators involves both exterior and interior cleaning to make sure they provide optimal performance and longevity. It also includes a cleaning cooling system, exterior system, lubrication system, and air filters. Conducting regular inspections and cleaning is important to prevent issues such as overheating and ensure efficient operation. 

In this blog, let’s discuss the cleaning and maintenance procedure for your diesel generator, how to clean your diesel generator, and when to perform generator cleaning.

Cleaning and maintenance procedure for your diesel generator

Below are the tips to properly clean and maintain your diesel generator:

Exterior cleaning:

  • Clean the generator with a soft cloth or sponge with mild detergent to wipe dirt, dust, and grime. 
  • Make use of compressed air to clean debris from cooling fins, air intake vents, and exhaust systems. 
  • Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as they may damage your generator’s components or paint. 

Interior components cleaning: 

  • Periodically inspect the cooling system to check obstructions and clean or replace components. 
  • Air filter: Check, inspect, or replace the air filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. 
  • Fuel system: Periodically check and clean the filters, injectors, and fuel lines to make sure they are free from water and contaminants. 
  • Lubrication system: Refill engine oil as needed and change oil and filters when needed according to manufacturer’s recommendations. 
  • Routine Maintenance: Perform periodic maintenance to find and address issues before they escalate. 
  • Scheduled maintenance: Have a schedule maintenance checklist that has a list of tasks including changing oil and filters, performing load bank testing, and inspecting the electrical system.
  • Regular cleaning: Regularly clean dust, dirt, and debris from the generator’s exterior and other components. 

Points to ponder 

  • Make sure you store fuel safely to avoid contamination 
  • Periodically test and inspect the generator’s battery for corrosion and other problems. 
  • Look for unusual noises or vibrations which may indicate a problem.  

By following the cleaning and maintenance practices, you can make sure that your diesel generator operates effectively and reliably for the coming years.  

How to clean your diesel generator?

To properly clean a generator make sure you know its model, specifications, and manufacturer’s recommendations. It involves cleaning the exterior, cooling system, and air filter and also checking and changing fluids like oil and fuel. Safety is significant so ensure the generator is turned off and cool and make sure the spark plug is disconnected before you start cleaning. 

Below are some steps to clean your diesel generator effectively:

Check for Safety 

  • Before you perform cleaning make sure you shut off the generator and allow it to cool down completely to avoid burns or injuries. 
  • To avoid accidental starting, make sure you remove the spark plug.
  • To avoid fire hazards, make sure you drain the fuel tank. 

Exterior cleaning 

  • Make use of a damp cloth or soft-bristled brush with mild detergent to clean the generator’s exterior and give special attention to areas like intake drills and exhaust. 
  • Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that may damage your generator paint and components. 

Air filter cleaning and replacement 

  • Find and replace the air filter based on the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Clean the air filter using a soft brush or compressed air or replace it if it’s damaged or worn out. 
  • Clogged air filters reduce the generator’s performance, so proper maintenance or replacement is required. 

Cooling system cleaning and inspection 

  • Check the cooling system for any leaks or blockages, and give attention to the fins, radiator, and cooling fan.
  • Make use of compressed air or a soft-bristled brush to clean debris from the cooling system. 

When to perform generator cleaning?

Generator cleaning should be performed periodically every 6 to 12 months or more frequently when it is operated in a dusty environment. It helps to maintain its performance and avoid breakdowns. Components such as air filters, and exhaust systems require more attention, for every 200 hours or annually based on manufacturer recommendations and usage. 

Below are some tips for performing effective generator cleaning:

  • Cleaning recommendation for your generator is at least once in every 6 to 12 months or after 100 to 200 hours.
  • Cleaning frequency varies according to the usage and operating environment, for example, if you use your generator in a dusty environment, it requires more cleaning than the one which is used in a cleaner environment. 
  • Pay attention to some of the components like the rotor, stator, exhaust, air filter, and intake fans to remove dust or debris. Clean or replace the air filter every 50 hours or annually based on the manufacturer’s guidelines. 
  • Since you perform weekly, monthly, and daily cleaning by yourself, consider hiring a certified technician for annual cleaning and maintenance. 

For expert cleaning and maintenance of your generator set, contact us today.

Mid America Engine provides indoor and outdoor generator sets, engine generator accessories, and generator services. Our technicians will understand your industrial requirements and provide suitable generators based on your climatic conditions, equipment used during outages, and your industrial space. We also provide expert cleaning and maintenance for your generator upon request, contact our expert today.    

FAQs about Diesel Generator Set Cleaning

How to clean your diesel generator?

To properly clean a generator make sure you know its model, specifications, and manufacturer’s recommendations. It involves cleaning the exterior, cooling system, and air filter and also checking and changing fluids like oil and fuel. Safety is significant so ensure the generator is turned off and cool and make sure the spark plug is disconnected before you start cleaning. 

When to perform generator cleaning

Generator cleaning should be performed periodically every 6 to 12 months or more frequently when it is operated in a dusty environment. It helps to maintain its performance and avoid breakdowns. Components such as air filters, and exhaust systems require more attention, for every 200 hours or annually based on manufacturer recommendations and usage.