How to Store and Maintain a Diesel Generator During the Rainy Season

Keep it dry and ventilated

• Water ingress is the biggest killer of standby generators in tropical climates.
• Place the set under a roof or in a ventilated shed, on a raised concrete pad rather than directly on wet ground.
• Never cover a running set with a tarpaulin; it blocks cooling air.

Protect the electrical parts

• Check the canopy seals and cable gland entries for gaps.
• Smear a light film of grease on battery terminals to prevent corrosion.
• Keep the control panel door closed and inspect it for condensation after heavy rain.

Manage the fuel

• Keep the tank as full as practical so there is less air space for condensation.
• Add a biocide fuel treatment if the set sits unused for months, because water in diesel encourages microbial growth.
• Drain water from the fuel filter before every start during the rainy season.

Run it regularly

• Start the set and run it on load for 30 to 60 minutes every two weeks.
• This drives out moisture, lubricates the seals and confirms the set will work when you need it.
• During the run, check for leaks, unusual smoke and abnormal noise.