In the face of persistent loadshedding challenges, an uninterrupted power supply is imperative for sustaining critical operations in businesses and industries. As a result, many South African companies have found that they have no choice but to invest in alternative power solutions such as solar, inverters or generators to ensure business continuity.
Solar power can be an expensive exercise and is weather-dependent, inverters may lack the necessary power output, which is why generators often emerge as a viable alternative, especially for SMEs. However, to maximise your investment in a generator, various measures need to be taken to ensure its availability when you need it most. This is according to Wynand Lombaard, Product & Pricing Specialist at Husqvarna South Africa, who says, “These measures are crucial to avoid breakdowns and costly replacements down the line.”
Lombaard shares these practical tips to help you keep your generator running smoothly:
- Choose the correct model to suit your business requirements.
- Stick to your generator’s wattage limit. Don’t overload it.
- Remember to cover your generator when it’s not in use to ensure it stays clean and is instantly ready to work during power outages.
- Power it up regularly to prevent component and fuel degradation.
- Do not allow your generator to run on low fuel levels. Keep that tank topped up.
- Give it some TLC by cleaning and checking the filter regularly.
- Don’t forget to change the oil – it’s like giving your generator a spa day.
- Stick to the maintenance schedule outlined in the Husqvarna Manual for Maintenance and Service Guide.
- Consider insuring your generator, just like you would your car or other valuable assets.
And when it comes to the placement of the generator:
- Find an elevated, secure spot outside with good airflow.
- Keep it undercover or in an enclosure to shield it from the elements.
- It must be easily accessible for maintenance purposes.
- Take proximity to buildings into account to minimise noise levels.
- Ensure compliance with all building codes and safety regulations.
Regular testing and maintenance are imperative for ensuring generator reliability. “A regularly tested unit will perform more reliably,” Lombaard adds, emphasising the importance of proactive maintenance practices. Furthermore, he recommends partnering with certified dealers. “An experienced maintenance partner is instrumental in ensuring optimal generator performance,” he says.
By following these steps, you can maximise the lifespan, efficiency, and reliability of your generator, ultimately getting the most value out of your investment.
For more information on commercial generators and expert guidance from Husqvarna, please visit https://www.husqvarna.com/za/generators/ or find your nearest dealer at: https://www.husqvarna.com/za/dealer-locator/