What is the Reason Why the Diesel Generator Cannot Be Started

When the power is interrupted, the standby generator set can usually bring us a continuous and stable power supply. However, because the standby generator set does not operate frequently, if the user does not pay attention to regular test operation and regular maintenance, it is very likely to be in need of power supply. When the diesel generator set cannot start normally, let us look at several reasons why the diesel generator set cannot start normally and how users should deal with such situations.

1. Battery failure.

One of the most common reasons why diesel generators cannot start is battery failure. This may usually be due to loose connections or sulfation (the accumulation of lead sulfate crystals on the lead-acid battery plate).When the sulfate molecules in the electrolyte (battery acid) are discharged too deeply, it will cause fouling on the battery plates, causing the battery to fail to provide sufficient current.

The battery failure may also be caused by the disconnection of the charger circuit breaker and inoperability, usually due to the failure of the battery charger device itself or the AC power supply being disconnected by the tripped circuit breaker.At this time, the charger has been turned off and has not been turned on again. This situation often occurs after repairs or maintenance have been performed. After performing repairs or maintenance, be sure to check the generator system again to ensure that the charger power circuit breaker is in the correct position.

Finally, battery failure may be due to dirty or loose connections. The connections need to be cleaned and tightened regularly to prevent potential failures. Dingbo Power recommends that you replace the battery every three years to reduce the risk of failure.

2. Low coolant level.

Without radiator coolant, the engine will quickly overheat, causing mechanical failure and engine failure. The coolant level should be checked regularly to visually check for coolant puddles. The color of the coolant varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, but it usually looks red.The clogged radiator core will also cause the coolant level to be too low to shut down. When the generator is running under load, when the engine reaches the optimal operating temperature, the thermostat is fully opened, which means that the radiator cannot allow the proper amount of flow to pass. Therefore, the coolant will escape through the overflow pipe.When the engine cools down and the thermostat is closed, the liquid level drops, and the low coolant level that starts the generator stops. Because this happens only when the generator reaches the optimal operating temperature under load, it is recommended that you use an external load group to test the generator, which is sufficiently loaded to reach the temperature required to open the thermostat.

3. Poor fuel mixing.

Normally, the reason why the generator cannot start is related to fuel. Poor fuel mixing can occur in many ways:

When your fuel runs out, the engine receives air, but no fuel.

The air intake is blocked, which means there is fuel but no air.

The fuel system may supply too much or too little fuel to the mixture. Therefore, normal combustion cannot be achieved in the engine.

Finally, there may be impurities in the fuel (that is, water in the fuel tank), causing the fuel to fail to burn. This situation often occurs when fuel is stored in the fuel tank for a long time.

Dingbo Power Reminder: As part of the regular service of any backup generator, the best practice is always to test the fuel to ensure that it will not cause malfunction in the future.

4. The control is not in automatic mode.

When your control panel displays the message: not in automatic mode, it is the result of human error, usually because the main control switch is in the off/reset position. When the generator is in this position, the generator may not be able to start in the event of a power failure.

Regularly check the control panel of the generator to ensure that the message is displayed. Many other faults displayed on the control panel will prevent the generator from starting.

If you want to know more about diesel generators, welcome to contact by email dingbo@dieselgeneratortech.com.