Standby Generator – Cold Weather Protection & Care

Reading Electric, a leading supplier of Electro-Mechanical Equipment and Repair Services for over 50 years, provides technical information to the region’s Industrial and Commercial Community. In today’s demanding world of safety and information integrity, most commercial and industrial facilities rely on Standby Generators as their primary source of standby electrical power. This Bulletin addresses the critical actions to take for Standby Generator cold weather protection.

Frigid temperatures can damage your Standby Generator System if the System is not prepared and maintained properly. Failure to service the System for cold weather could result in the expenditure of thousands of dollars for repairs and a System that jeopardizes the health and safety of personnel. It may also result in property damage. There are several Critical Actions that must be taken to meet the minimum requirements for protection.

Critical Cold Weather Generator Protection

1st Critical Action » Starting Batteries 

a. Replace batteries if over 3 years in age.
b. Check Electrolyte Fluid Level and Specific Gravity (1.215 +/- 10%) if using Maintenance Free batteries.

2nd Critical Action » Coolant / Anti-Freeze

a. Maintain Proper Coolant Level.
b. Ensure Mixture set for 30 degrees below zero Fahrenheit.<

3rd Critical Action » Engine Block Heaters

a. Check for proper operation.

4th Critical Action » Exercise

a. Running the unit each week with load not only helps eliminate any moisture buildup, but also verifies operation of all components. Be sure to run long enough for unit to reach operating temperature.

A Program of Preventive checks will ensure your Standby Power Generator will satisfy your Company’s operation requirements when you need it the most.

What is the best method for testing a battery?
Generator Maintenance Professionals rely on Load Testing as the most reliable method of indicating the health of today’s batteries.

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