Right2write contest : How to service a generator by @pearlofwisdom

Hello lovely people, a beautiful day to you all. I am here again with yet another wonderful topic on How to Service a Generator.

Yes you heard me right!!! 😀
I don't really know much about thorough servicing but I do know how to service some basic things in a small generator.

Before we go further, let me enlighten you more on what a generator is.

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Generator

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Generator is gotten from the word, "generate". In simple term, a generator is a machine that produces electrical energy when power is out. It is something, especially a machine that converts mechanical or chemical energy into electrical energy.

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Uses of Generator

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• It is used for mining
• Routine power outages.
• Emergencies
• Constructions
• Standby power for businesses
• Campings
• Night working
• Transportation. e.t.c.

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Types of Generators

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The classification of electric generators depends on the type of electrical energy been produced. It could either be Direct Current (DC) or Alternating Current (AC).

DC Generators

Source

They are divided into three categories

• Series
• Compound-wound
• Shunt.

Series Generators: They are used in street lights.

Compound-wound: amAre mostly DC generators.

Shunt: Mainly used in battery chargers.

AC Generators

Source

These are known as single-phase generators and they are limited to 25KW.

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Generator components with their Functions

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• A Fuel System - This keeps the generator running.

• An Engine - This is the source of mechanical energy.

• The Frame - This is the structure of the generator.

• A Cooling System - This helps regulate heat that build up in the system.

• The Alternator - produces light from the mechanical input.

• Main Control - this panel is responsible for controlling generator interface.

• An Exhaust System - disposes waste exhaust gases.

• A Lubrication System - This helps for durable and smooth operations.

• An Engine - This is the main source of mechanical energy.

• A Charger - This helps to keep the battery of the generator charged.

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Tools needed and their Functions

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• Plug Spanner - This is used to loosen and tighten the plug.

• Spanners - Used to loosen bolts. And they come in different sizes to loosen different sizes of nuts.

• Screwdriver - Used to loosen smaller types of bolts.

• Hammer - Helps in tightening strong nuts.

• Jack - Used to carry the engine.

• Pliers - Used to cut wire.

Basic things to check out for if your generator can't start / Basic way to service a generator

1. First of all, always check if there is oil, if not put in a new one. If the old oil is dirty pour it out, don't mix a new oil and oil together because of dirt particles that will contaminate the new one, and still the problem won't be solved.

2. Check the plug area, loosen the plug with the plug spanner, clean and check if the plug has current, if it has, just put it back and try starting again, but if there is no current you change the plug.

3. Check the starting current, if there is no current you change it.

4. Always check for fuel level, to know when to top up before starting.

5. Check if any wire is damaged.

6. Check for any form of leakage.

Having done the above and you still find out the generator is still hard starting, it is then advisable you consult the expertise of a mechanic to really trace where the issue is from and fix it to avoid any form of accident.