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How Often Should I Change the Batteries on my Generator?

Maintaining Your Commercial Standby Generator: How Often Should You Change the Batteries?

Owning a commercial standby generator is a significant investment in ensuring your business can continue operations during power outages. A common question asked by our customers is “how often should I change my commercial generator batteries”? Regular battery maintenance and timely replacements are essential to ensure your generator is ready to perform when needed. But how often should you change the batteries in your commercial standby generator?

Why Battery Maintenance is Crucial

The battery in your generator is responsible for starting the engine. If the battery fails, the generator won’t start, defeating the purpose of having a standby generator in the first place. Regular maintenance and timely battery replacements can prevent this scenario and ensure your generator remains reliable.

General Guidelines for Battery Replacement

  1. Follow Manufacturer Recommendations: The first step in determining how often to change your generator’s battery is to check the manufacturer’s guidelines. Most manufacturers provide specific recommendations for battery maintenance and replacement schedules. Typically, this information can be found in the generator’s user manual.
  2. Standard Replacement Interval: As a general rule of thumb, it is advisable to replace the batteries in your commercial standby generator every 2 to 3 years. Even if the battery seems to be working fine, it’s best to replace it within this timeframe to prevent unexpected failures.
  3. Regular Testing and Inspections: Regular testing and inspections are essential to monitor the health of your generator’s battery. Perform a visual inspection monthly and look for any signs of corrosion, leakage, or damage. Additionally, conduct a load test every 6 months to ensure the battery can hold a charge and deliver the necessary power.

Factors Influencing Battery Life

  1. Environment and Usage: The environment in which your generator operates can significantly impact battery life. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can shorten the lifespan of a battery. If your generator is located in an area with extreme weather conditions, you might need to replace the battery more frequently.
  2. Maintenance Practices: Proper maintenance practices can extend the life of your generator’s battery. Ensure that battery terminals are clean and free from corrosion. Regularly check and maintain the electrolyte levels in lead-acid batteries. Keep the battery fully charged and avoid deep discharges whenever possible.
  3. Quality of the Battery: The quality of the battery you choose can also affect its lifespan. Investing in a high-quality battery from a reputable manufacturer can provide better performance and longevity compared to cheaper alternatives.

Signs Your Battery Needs Replacement

Duthie Power Safety and Quality Assurance Manager, Johnny Bradford, explains the danger in ignoring battery maintenance, “The absolute worst thing you can do is get caught in a real utility power emergency and have a generator that will not start because you tried to get the batteries to last as long as possible.”

Even with regular maintenance, batteries will eventually need replacement. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time for a new battery:

  • Difficulty Starting: If the generator struggles to start or takes longer than usual, it could be a sign of a weak battery.
  • Frequent Alarms: If your generator’s control panel shows frequent battery-related alarms, it might be time for a replacement.
  • Physical Damage: Any signs of physical damage, such as bulging, cracking, or leaking, are clear indicators that the battery needs to be replaced immediately.

 

Every Two Years is Best

Maintaining the battery in your commercial standby generator is crucial to ensure reliable performance during power outages. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations, conducting regular inspections, and replacing the battery every 2 to 3 years, you can avoid unexpected failures and keep your business running smoothly. Remember, a well-maintained battery is key to the overall health of your generator system. Stay proactive, and your generator will be ready when you need it the most.

For more information on changing your standby generator battery, visit us online or give us a call at 1-800-899-3931.

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