When Should You Replace Belts and Hoses on a Commercial Generator?
As a facility engineer, you’re the backbone of your building’s operations. Whether it’s ensuring tenants stay comfortable or keeping critical systems online during an outage, your expertise matters. One key component that often gets overlooked is the belts and hoses in your commercial generator. These unsung heroes quietly handle the wear and tear of daily operation, but when they fail, they can lead to costly downtime and headaches. So, when’s the right time to replace them? Let’s break it down.
Why Belts and Hoses Matter
Belts in a generator system transfer power to components like the alternator, cooling fan, or water pump. Hoses, on the other hand, carry vital fluids such as coolant or fuel. Over time, the heat, vibration, and constant exposure to various elements can degrade these parts. If a belt snaps or a hose bursts, your generator might stop working at the exact moment you need it most.
Signs It’s Time for Replacement
Age Matters
Most manufacturers recommend inspecting and potentially replacing belts and hoses every three to five years, even if they appear in good condition. Duthie Power Sales Engineer Mike Goodman adds, “For belts and hoses, we recommend replacing them every 36 months – that is the guideline for most manufacturers.” Rubber degrades over time, whether it’s being used or not. If your generator has been in service for a few years without replacement, it’s worth scheduling a closer inspection.Visible Cracks or Wear
Take a look at the belts—do you see cracks, fraying, or a shiny, glazed surface? That’s a red flag. Dewey Brunson, Duthie Power’s Service manager, explains, “We are always checking the belts for proper adjustment and cracks. Many times we’ll find that the belts need replacement prior to the 36 month interval that the manufacturer recommends.” For hoses, look for cracks, bulges, or signs of leaking fluid at the connection points. These are clear indications the material is no longer flexible or strong enough to do its job.Tension Troubles
A belt that’s too loose can slip, while one that’s too tight can stress the generator’s components. Check the tension periodically and adjust as needed. If you’re constantly readjusting, the belt may be stretched beyond its limit and should be replaced.Coolant or Fuel Leaks
Hoses carrying coolant or fuel are particularly prone to failure because of the high pressures and temperatures they endure. Leaks are not just messy—they can lead to overheating or fuel delivery problems that shut the generator down.Unusual Noises
Squealing or chirping noises often mean a belt is on its way out. If you hear these sounds during operation, it’s time to investigate.
Proactive Replacement: The Safe Bet
While inspections are important, a proactive replacement schedule is your best insurance policy. Waiting for a belt or hose to fail could mean more than just downtime—it could damage other parts of the generator, like the alternator or radiator.
Here’s a rule of thumb:
- Belts: Replace every 3–5 years, or sooner if they show wear.
- Hoses: Replace every 3–5 years, and always replace them if you notice any signs of leaking, cracking, or bulging.
Include It in Your Maintenance Plan
A thorough maintenance plan should include regular inspections of belts and hoses. During scheduled generator servicing, make sure your technician checks these components.
Duthie Power’s Director of Operations, Randy Gross, adds, “We check the entire system with every comprehensive inspection we do—the cooling system, belts, hoses, coolant, etc. From there, we can make the correct recommendation and necessary repairs.”
A quick visual inspection combined with a test run can identify potential problems early.
Final Thoughts
Replacing belts and hoses on your commercial generator might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of those “small hinges that swing big doors.” A little attention now can prevent massive headaches later.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your belts and hoses—or if it’s been a while since they’ve been replaced—don’t wait until the next storm or power outage to find out. Schedule a professional inspection and ensure your generator is ready to perform when your facility needs it most.
Have questions about your generator’s belts and hoses? Reach out to a trusted generator service provider for advice tailored to your system. After all, a little maintenance goes a long way toward keeping your facility running smoothly.
To schedule service with Duthie Power’s team of generator experts, request a quote or give us a call at 1-800-899-3931.
