Generator Procedures to Prevent Surge Damage

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We have recently had several cases of equipment being damaged while being used on backup generators. Power equipment needs its full rated voltage all of the time, any time the voltage is outside of this range, damage can occur. When a generator is starting and coming to a stop, the output voltage will be erratic.Simply stated, never have the generator connected to a load when starting or stopping.

NTM Tech Center Recommended Generator Start and Stop Procedure

Starting:

  1. Verify the generator is not connected to or powering anything. In most cases removing the Pull-Out from the Generator Fused Disconnect is sufficient.
  2. Check that there is sufficient clean oil and fuel. Unlike a gasoline engine, a diesel engine may be damaged if it is run completely out of fuel.
  3. Check that the air filter is in place and clean. If the air filter is missing or dirty the engine will operate less efficiently and it can be damaged.
  4. Ensure that the fuel supply valve is on.
  5. Start the generator. You may have to use the choke, but be sure to turn off the choke fully after it starts. If the generator will not operate correctly with the choke off you need to do some maintenance on your generator.
  6. Wait until the generator is stabilized, from 20 seconds to 2 minutes, before connecting any electrical loads to the generator. It is very important that the output voltage is stable before you begin using any power.
  7. Connect the Generator to the devices you desire to power. In most cases this is as simple as inserting the Pull-Out from the Generator Fused Disconnect.

 

Stopping:

  1. Turn off your loads. For example if you were washing clothes, turn off the washing machine.
  2. Disconnect the Generator from all loads. In most cases removing the Pull-Out from the Generator Fused Disconnect is sufficient.
  3. Wait untilthe generator is stabilized, in 5 – 30 seconds, before turning it off.
  4. Turn off the Generator:
    1. If you have a diesel generator turn off the run switch on the generator. If you desire, you may turn off the fuel supply valve.
    2. If you plan on using your gasoline generator in a few days, simply turn off the run switch on the generator. If you desire, you may turn off the fuel supply valve.
    3. If you have a gasoline generator and you will not be using it for several weeks, turn off the fuel supply valve. Then allow the generator to consume all of the fuel in the carburetor. This will help prevent the fuel from gumming up the inside of the carburetor. The generator will sputter and stop in 10 – 60 seconds. Now turn off the run switch on the generator.