Standby generators

Procedures for maintenance of standby generators:

• Run engine drives at least weekly for half an hour under full load. Where it is not possible to energise the emergency load during the weekly tests, provide a dummy load. The driver and fuel system should be checked for adequate lubrication and fuel levels, as well as fluid leaks. The generator output should be checked for adequate voltage and frequency.
• Make necessary adjustments and tighten loose connections monthly, lubricating where needed.
• Change the oil filter and check the air filter every six months.
• Change governor and lubricating oil if necessary.
• Change the fuel filters annually.
• Thoroughly check the engine cooling system for rust accumulation and plugging.
• Check for adequate room temperature or oil/water heating.

Maintain batteries as follows:

Weekly:

• Inspect battery terminals to make sure that they are clean, tight and free of corrosion.
• Remove any dust or dirt accumulation on top of cells and keep them clean and dry.
• Check the level of electrolytes. Refill to proper level when necessary, using only water recommended for battery use. Record amount of water used. Abnormal water use indicates overcharging.

Monthly:

• Check and record specific gravity and voltage of the pilot cell on each battery or group of cells to indicate the state of charge of the entire battery.

Quarterly:

• Give the battery an equalising charge to ensure that it is fully charged.

Semi-annually:

• Check specific gravity and voltage of each individual cell. Uneven cell voltages and specific gravity indicate trouble or approaching failure. If trouble is due to undercharging, an equalising charge will restore all cells to normal.

Standby generators.pdf

People in Risk

Marcel Wood

Marcel Wood heads Etana’s risk management division. Before starting in insurance he worked for the fire department, rescuing people and (literally) putting out fires. He’s passed through Munich Re and Santam, and has designed the only risk management tool aimed specifically at the insurance industry – ARQ. Marcel is a mean guitarist, a brilliant vocalist and an accomplished soccer player with the personal motto: “Do your best all the time”.