Portable generators can be a fantastic alternative to conventional backup generators. These small units come with every power source you obtain from a conventional generator, but with portable convenience, and even lower costs for maintenance and purchase.

However portable generators can be quite dangerous at times. As with all machines that is available, they can be prone to breakdowns and faults when you require them the most, such as when you are in the middle of an interruption. There's nothing more irritating than having your generator fail following a storm that knocked out power grids and you need to maintain power.

Naturally, if your generator experiences problems, the first step would be to verify whether there is sufficient fuel in the tank.

There are however a number of frequent issues that you're likely to face when working with portable generators. In some cases, the issue is small and repairing it is not a requirement for specific skills or tools. All you need is to pinpoint the issue and then implement the right method to fix it. There is no need to hire an engine mechanic to get your generator back functioning effortlessly.

Here are some common problems that you're likely to face and easy DIY solutions to fix these issues. Do we want to take a look?

1 - Running For a Short While Then Stopping

You're aware of that frustration don't? The machine will go on for a few seconds and then ceases to run even though it has enough fuel. Your activities will be interrupted, which could lead to harm to your electrical appliances. In the next section, you'll find potential causes of this issue and the best course of action to correct the issues.

Overloading

The load that is too high will indicate that the demand for power exceeds the generator's capacity, and that the generator is not working properly. When a portable generator becomes overloaded, it emits an intense crackling sound. Modern models have sensors that can detect when the generator is being overloaded and trigger it to shut off in order to prevent any major injury. The older models without this feature will cause the generator and continue to overload it.

Solution - Try decreasing the number of appliances that are connected to the generator prior starting the generator. Pay attention to the sound and listen for any distinct or louder than normal sound. It could be it could be a sign of an overworking generator.

Oil Level

The generator might shut down after just only a few minutes of operation due to extremely excessive or low levels of oil. If the oil level is inadequate, temperature of the generator increases rapidly, and causes the system to shut down. the system. The majority of modern generators come with a low-oil level auto shut-down function that turns the generator off once an oil level that is low is identified.

However the presence of extremely high levels of oil can cause blowing of the air from the lines of breathing and into the filter. This can also result in an interruption to the system. Portable generators that have extremely high levels of oil level sensors will also shut off when the oil level is higher than the levels recommended by.

Solution: Always verify the oil level in your generator prior to switching it on. Check that the level is adequate and in line with the recommended amount.

Coolant Level

The coolant level inside the generator's system is as crucial as the level of oil. The low levels of coolant contribute to rapid temperature rises which can damage delicate components like the control panel, and cause an abrupt shutdown of the whole system. Modern portable generators come with switches for coolant levels as well as a thermal overload cut-out, which shut off the system when temperatures are too high.

Solution: Make sure the generator is full of coolant prior to installing it in the machine. Verify the coolant level frequently at least once per month.

Tank of fuel or Pipes

The tank for fuel and the fuel pipe that transports fuel to the carburetor and engine must be free of any particles that might interfere with the flow of fuel. Be sure to inspect the pump, pipes and valves to ensure that nothing blocks the flow of fuel. In addition, Clean the tank with fuel and release any pressure that is stored within it.

Circuits and Wiring

The majority of generators depend on batteries to provide the power required to start the system. The battery for a portable generator can only last for several years. Make sure it is top condition. Other components susceptible to be damaged comprise spark plugs and control panels switches, switches, as well as voltage meters. Be sure to maintain these components regularly to ensure they are replaced in the case of irreparable damage.

If you detect any smells emanating from the generators, you should check for wires that are shorted or getting corroded.

2 - Leakages

Oil, fuel leaks, and coolant leaks are not uncommon in generators. The reason for leaks is usually caused by a rise in temperature, wet stacking or overfilling the tank that is because of a malfunctioning fuel pump or inadvertent management by the owner. In addition, leaks of coolant can be the result of worn out the hoses for block heaters. They are susceptible to wear due to the extremely high temperatures produced by blocks heaters. Other causes of leaks are gasket leaks, and problem with the fuel gauge.

How to fix Do regular maintenance checks, frequently examine the portable generator for hoses and look for leaks. If you spot one, you can repair the leak using epoxy. Be sure to give it an adequate amount of time for the drying process. Replace the hoses that have been damaged, gaskets, or gauges for fuel If you have any.

3 - No Voltage or Power

Generators require a certain voltage in order to get started. But, the generator could not be able to generate the required voltage due to a reduction of residual magnetic. If a generator has lost the residual magnetism, it's not able to generate the required power to get started. This happens by the fact that your generator is not used for a prolonged period of time. Additionally, the fact that you connect your portable device to a power source when it's off may cause residual magnetic fields. Another reason could be running the generator with no load for an extended period of time.

How to fix it? The fix can be found by connecting a battery of 12v to the black and white leads from the generator. Connect the white lead and the wire that is positive that is connected to the battery. Utilize this clip on the opposite side to connect with the black wire for short time before taking it away. It is possible to repeat the process multiple times until you see an increase in voltage. Before you begin , ensure that you shut off the generator first.

You can also use one that is powered by an electrical drill. Connect the grill to the generator's receptacle. Switch on the generator and push the trigger on the drill to rotate to the other direction. This creates a field which will ignite the generator.