Looking after your Inverter Generator
Inverter Generator Maintenance
The key to a long-lasting inverter generator is consistent maintenance that aligns with the recommendations in iTechworld’s operator manual. From general maintenance tips and guidelines to a helpful schedule for common procedures, the manual will serve as the best point of reference for commercial and personal users who wish to keep their inverter generator running efficiently for many years to come. Those new to iTechworld generators can follow a few specific tips in order to ensure long-term enjoyment of their inverter generator purchase.
Safey Disclaimer: Think before you act
Inverter generators aren’t just a safety risk while in operation. In fact, conducting maintenance exposes users to many of the same risks that would be faced while the equipment is
running. Before getting started with regularly scheduled maintenance, make sure that the
equipment has had time to cool down. Users should work only in a well ventilated
or outdoor environment, using a solid and level surface that guards against fuel spills or
equipment balance issues. Ensure that the engine is off and that spark plugs or other wires are disconnected, since this will prevent unwanted ignition that might cause very serious injury.
The key to a long lifespan is maintenance
Inverter generator maintenance keeps the equipment running at peak efficiency, which means that it uses fuel more sparingly and works for a longer period of time. Regular maintenance also ensures that the inverter generator runs more quietly than it would if key parts are neglected, which can be a significant boost especially if the inverter generator needs to run overnight or for multiple consecutive days. The best way to ensure a high level of efficiency and a low level of noise, is to simply follow the guidelines mentioned in the operator manual’s maintenance schedule. This schedule recommends certain types of maintenance based on the number of hours the generator has been in use, and is a great reference that will keep everything running smoothly until the generator is retired or replaced with another model. The maintenance schedule highlights the following key procedures
Engine Oil Change - iTechworld recommends checking the oil levels each time the inverter generator is used, with an oil change required after the first twenty hours of use and every six months after that. Oil is checked and changed by removing the oil/service/air filter access panel and unscrewing the oil filler cap, you can then check the oil dipstick to see the oil level. Typically iTechworld recommends SAE 10W30 oil. To change the oil screw the oil discharge pipe into the oil reservoir and tighten. Tilt you inverter generator forward and pour the oil into a suitable container. Using the oil container provided by iTechworld fill the inverter generator up with new oil.
Air Filter - The air filter should also be checked prior to each inverter generator use. Equipment owners should clean the filter after 50 hours of use or every 3 months, whichever comes first. Cleaning can be performed with warm water and a mild detergent, like dish detergent or other typical soaps. Wash and then let dry thoroughly, dip the foam filter in clean engine oil and squeeze out all excess if there is too much oil left on the foam filter the inverter generator will "smoke". If the air filter shows signs of damage, it should be replaced with an new one instead.
Spark Plug - Spark plug adjustments should take place every 100 hours, or after six months of use. The spark plug requires full replacement once per year, or after 200 hours. As with the air filter, a spark plug that shows signs of significant damage should be removed and replaced with a brand new spark plug that fits the inverter generator, as this will ensure continued operation at the highest levels of efficiency. For full replacement, iTechworld recommends A7RTC or CR5HSB Spark plug with Gap 0.7 to 0.8 (0.028 to 0.032”), available from most auto electrical stores.
Spark Arrestor - The spark arrestor is designed to prevent the emission of flammable debris from your inverter generator. This is a critical part of the inverter generator, and by keeping it serviced and clean ensures both efficiency and safe operation. Because this part is located near the inverter generator’s muffler, that part should be allowed to cool down after any recent use before spark arrestor maintenance is performed. ITechworld recommends spark arrestor service and cleaning after every 20 hours of use, or every month, whichever comes first. Use a wire brush to free any carbon deposits from the surface of the spark arrestor, and inspect the part for damage. if required, replace the spark arrestor rather than cleaning off built-up carbon and dirt deposits.
Article author
Ian
ian@itechworld.com.au