Generator Battery Care

Standby power generators have a single-point-of-failure; their starter battery. When charged this provides power to the alternator when the mains power fails. These batteries are either open vented (wet flooded) cells which require routine inspection and maintenance or automative-type lead acid. For either type, regular testing, inspection and maintenance is required to ensure generating set start-up.

Standby power generators have a single-point-of-failure; their starter battery. When charged this provides power to the alternator when the mains power fails. These batteries are either open vented (wet flooded) cells which require routine inspection and maintenance or automative-type lead acid. For either type, regular testing, inspection and maintenance is required to ensure generating set start-up.

The most commonly installed starter battery used in generators is a lead-acid type – similar to an automotive battery, which uses a chemical process to create electrical energy. As such, generator batteries like this require a degree of care and maintenance to preserve their design life and prevent corrosion and leakage. This type of diesel generator battery is well suited to the characteristics of generator application, such as short runtime and high discharge rate. Unlike UPS batteries, they are also happy to operate in a wide temperature range (0-40 degrees centigrade), which makes them especially ideal for generator application. Generators are often sited outdoors, or in plant rooms with an uncontrolled ambient temperature. Depending on where, geographically, a generator is located, the starter battery could be expected to cope with a wide range of temperatures.

Lead-acid batteries are used in industrial, automotive and traction applications and are typically designed to last for five, ten and fifteen years. For standby generator and UPS applications, the industrial type of lead-acid battery is the most appropriate because of its plate design, electrolyte and charge/discharge performance. Industrial lead-acid batteries are available in a number of designs, sizes and formats to meet the demands of their application for a range of high and low discharge performances.

Batteries of this sort need to be charged slowly and are often trickle charged using mains and generator power, which can result in eventual loss of electrolyte. For this reason, electrolyte levels should be checked as part of a regular maintenance inspection and topped up if necessary. Operators should wear protective clothing (especially gloves) during this process to prevent chemical burns. Any spills should be treated with special detergents and washed away immediately. Other checks that should be performed are visual; checking the generator battery for leaks and corrosion. Batteries displaying any signs of wear and tear should be replaced immediately.

Replacement batteries are available for generating sets from ECO Power Supplies including a range of generator maintenance plans to ensure your generator is already maintained and capable of support within a power protection plan.