What Are the Disadvantages of Using a Diesel Generator?

What is a diesel generator? It is a combination of an engine and an electrical generator to produce electricity. This is in fact a special case of diesel-electric generator. A diesel combustion-ignition engine generally is designed to operate on diesel fuel, though some varieties are also adapted for use on other liquid fuels and even natural gas. These variants are becoming more popular as the price of crude oil rises.

This type of generator combines the mechanical energy of an engine with the electrical power generated by an alternator or a turbo-driven pump. In this way, the mechanical energy of the engine is converted into electrical energy and vice versa. The output of the engine, in turn, is used to drive the generator. In a way, it is like engines and generators teaming up to make one mighty machine.

There are several different types of diesel generators in use in present-day. They come in all shapes and sizes. Each has its own function, though there are basic principles that remain the same across all different types of engines. Let us look at each in detail.

As far as maintenance is concerned, there is very little to be worried about. The biggest worry is the condition of the fuel. Diesel generators tend to burn fuel faster than other types of engine. So regular monitoring of fuel level is necessary to ensure there is enough supply to complete the required work.

In addition, regular checkups of the spark plug, the coolant hoses, and the air filter are essential. These are the basic maintenance requirements of any diesel generator, whether run on electricity or fuels. You should ensure these are clean and not clogged with dirt and debris. Otherwise, you will have less power management, since you will be relying more on the fuel to keep going.

Another aspect that requires some attention is the set up. There are certain points that should be kept in mind when you are putting in a diesel generator. For instance, there should be a ‘hydraulically sealed’ connection point. This ensures that no leakage takes place while the wires go through the set up. It also guarantees that the electrical power is generated within the coils that are set up inside. In fact, you can buy these pre-made or you can assemble them if you have some DIY skills.

When the diesel generator is connected to the main engine, a series of cables and wires will have to be brought out. From the engine, these wires will pass through the alternator to the alternator mount. In the meantime, the power cable is brought out from the main engine and goes to the battery. The final destination is again the alternator mount. This entire process should be completed within a few minutes time without missing out any single component.

Installing diesel generators in an area where you might face a shortage of electrical power is not something that you should ignore at all. These devices are used for emergencies. Do not take any chances when it comes to power outages as this might turn out to be a very big disaster. If your diesel generator fails to work, you should contact a qualified technician right away to provide you with emergency power supply, so that you do not have to suffer due to lack of electric energy.

Although diesel generators are fairly cheap, they still have their own disadvantages. These are mainly the disadvantages that come with the package. The first disadvantage of this kind of generator is the noise pollution. As mentioned earlier, these generators are run by a diesel engine and this means that they create noise whenever they run.

There are also some people who believe that petrol generators are cheaper to run. But the truth of the matter is that diesel engines produce exhaust which causes pollution and damage to the ozone layer. Another disadvantage of using diesel generators is that they are more expensive than petrol generators. And when they are working, they use a lot of fuel, making them more expensive in the long run.

You should always try to avoid buying a generator which uses heavy fuel oil because there are actually a lot of benefits of using alternative fuel sources for your generators. Diesel has been known to be the best source for powering generators for quite some time now and this is why a lot of people are looking for ways to reduce their costs. Now that you know about diesel generators and what they have to offer, you can make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing one. Just remember that when it comes to maintenance, there are a lot of advantages but a lot of disadvantages as well.