Precautions for using generator sets in cold winter

Using of generator sets in winter requires special attention to the challenges posed by low temperatures, such as fuel freezing, cooling system icing, starting difficulties, and equipment wear. The following practical protective recommendations are based on common technical points.

1.Fuel and Antifreeze Management
In winter, low-pour-point diesel fuel (such as -10# or -35#) must be used to avoid 0# diesel fuel freezing at low temperatures, which would reduce its fluidity.

Simultaneously, the cooling system must use ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with a freezing point below -25°C, and the antifreeze concentration must be maintained between 40% and 60% to prevent damage to the generator body from freezing expansion.

Untreated water must never be used directly as a coolant!

2.Starting and Operation
Before starting, the generator set must be preheated, for example, use the water heater and oil heater, or by using an external water bath to heat the engine oil. After a cold start, maintain low-speed, no-load operation for 3-5 minutes until the coolant temperature rises above 40℃ and the engine oil temperature reaches the standard before gradually increasing the load. This prevents abnormal wear of the piston rings and cylinder liners under low-temperature conditions.

Do not use open flames to aid combustion or heat the oil pan during startup to prevent fire or component damage.

3.Generator set Maintenance and Insulation
Regularly inspect and replace the air filter, diesel filter, and oil filter to reduce wear caused by impurities.
In cold regions, it is recommended to install an insulation jacket on the generator set to prevent over-cooling.
After shutdown, if the ambient temperature is below 4℃, drain the water from the radiator promptly to prevent freezing and cracking; this step is unnecessary if antifreeze is used.

4.Safety and Environmental Control
The generator set should be installed in a well-ventilated location to prevent carbon monoxide accumulation. When installed outdoors, pay attention to weather changes and take protective measures if necessary. At the same time, check the battery condition, ensure the electrolyte specific gravity is normal, and apply petroleum jelly to prevent oxidation.

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