Blackouts can be sudden, but with a generator, the lights don’t stay off for too long. Whether you own a portable or whole-home generator, you should never feel unsafe. Although when your generator begins blowing out smoke while running, it can be quite alarming.
Generator smoke can occur from a general lack of maintenance and broken components to the placement of the unit itself. While the appearance of smoke can be scary, it’s important to know why this is happening to your generator and the steps you can take to make it stop.
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What Can Cause a Generator to Smoke?
If your generator is blowing white, black, or blue smoke, this issue can be alarming. However, sometimes a small amount of generator smoke is normal. Below is a list of common colors seen emanating from a generator.
- Black Smoke – Emitted when diesel fuel is not properly or partially combusted
- White Smoke – Indicates the un-combusted diesel exiting out with the exhaust
- Blue Smoke – Appears due to oil entering the combustion chamber and burning
If you see white smoke after turning your generator on, don’t worry. However, white smoke seen anytime afterward is not a good sign. Consistent smoke indicates that there is a malfunction somewhere.
Many times, smoke is directly caused by malfunctions or damaged components. A common example of a problematic part is the fuel injector. A faulty injector is sometimes unable to process the supply correctly, which results in white smoke being blown out of the exhaust.
Another cause could be a simple mistake such as simply overfilling your unit from an oil change. The unit won’t be able to burn through the excess fuel, resulting in black smoke. When smoke appears, it’s time to start inspecting for the problem before it risks you and your unit’s health.
Why is My Generator Blowing White Smoke? Follow these Inspection Steps
If the generator is blowing white smoke out, inspect your unit using these steps:
- First, check your generator’s fuel supply
- Assess if the fuel delivered has been contaminated in any way
- Check areas like hoses for any water leaks that seeped into the engine block or fuel tank
- Change out all your fuel filters with brand-new ones
- Inspect your fuel tank for any holes or areas of rust that could have contaminated the fuel
- Finally, use a fuel polishing system to clear out any water within your fuel
Why Do I See Black Smoke Exiting My Generator? Troubleshoot With these Steps
When your generator consistently blows out black smoke, take these steps:
- Adjust your fuel lines and input
- Replace your fuel filters
- Change out the air filters
- Inspect the quality of your fuel
- Check all the injectors for contamination or age-related wear
Read More: Comparing Gas and Propane Standby Generators: Benefits and Applications
Why is My System Releasing Blue Smoke? Use these Steps and Tips
If the generator smoke is blue, please take the following steps:
- Verify the age of your unit
- With your control panel, check if the generator has run over 10,000 hours
- Check the last time your unit was serviced
- Replace the head gasket and any other gasket or seal around your fuel and oil filters
If blue smoke persists, your generator will require immediate professional generator repairs or maintenance. Continued use can risk a system failure.
Top Types of Generators
Back-up generator technology continues to evolve year after year. With modern design, there are various types of backup generators that come in all shapes and sizes.
Each type is designed around its various purposes and applications. Understanding the proper usage for your type of generator can help you determine why the unit may be smoking.
Portable Generators
A probable generator comes equipped with a variable power configuration. This type of system is perfect for supplying power during blackouts or power outages from severe weather conditions.
Inverter Generators
This generator type uses a rectifier to turn AC power into DC then inverting back to AC. This process provides a steady electrical current to your appliances. These are best used for items that require certain voltage and frequency levels, such as refrigerators to even a car.
Standby Generators
A standby generator provides immediate backup power in the event of a power grid failure. Their application is best for places like apartments, restaurants, or hotels that depend on a grid for power.
Industrial Generators
Designed for large commercial businesses, an industrial generator is built to withstand harsher conditions and provide more robust power supply options. The fuel for these generators varies as well, consisting of diesel, gasoline, natural, propane, and even kerosene.
How To Prevent Smoke and Other Generator Issues
When your generator stops smoking, it does not mean the issue won’t come back. Not to worry, as there are ways to prevent smoking among other problems.
Generator Maintenance
Routine generator maintenance on your system is recommended. A great maintenance checklist can include:
- Checking fuel hoses for clogs or leaks
- Make sure your hose is distributing the correct amount of fuel to the engine
- Inspecting electrical components for damage or corrosion
- Tightening electrical connections
- Providing enough lubrication for the moving parts
Doing tasks like these keeps the different generator components in good shape and alerts you to any early issues. Staying ahead of problems prevents potential breakdowns and possible safety risks.
Need Support? Our Professionals Offer Repair Services for Generac Guardian Series Generators, Protector Series Generators, and Other Lines
Generator Repairs
Repairs are best left to a professional since generators come with complex designs and potentially dangerous components. Generator repairs typically consist of fixing or replacing certain components that are integral to your generator’s functionality. Components include:
- Fuel Hoses
- Battery/Charging System
- Control Panel
- Engine
These parts can either wear down or become damaged, resulting in problems such as your unit smoking. Luckily, our professional electricians provide safe and effective repair solutions to bring back efficient generator function without the risk of dangers like smoke.
Standby Generator Repair and Installation Services
Power outages are never convenient, but you don’t have to be left in the dark. Our team members are committed to offering convenient standby generator services in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and the surrounding areas. From protective repair options to reputable installation services, our skilled electricians will keep your electricity running smoothly.
Our services cover the top generator brands including Generac, Briggs & Stratton, and Kohler. When a power outage occurs, you want your backup power working as best as possible. If issues arise, rely on our available 24/7 emergency generator services. We do it all from repairing your backup system to installing a brand-new gas generator. When you need backup power, you want something reliable. Give our staff a call at (561) 408-5147 to receive assistance.
