Benefits of Engine Block Heaters for Your Backup Generator

When outages occur, you should be able to rely on your backup generator to kick on immediately. If it doesn’t operate as intended, you risk going without the power to get through your day comfortably, safely, and conveniently. For periods of the year that fall below 60 degrees, it’s extra crucial that your generator has what it takes to function well.

Fortunately, there are some ways to better equip your standby generator; one way is by adding an engine block heater. These systems optimize your unit to ensure proper starting temperatures. Below, we discuss an engine block heater, the types used for standby generators, and how to maintain them for maximum efficiency.

What Are Engine Block Heaters?

Also known as engine pre-heaters, an engine block heater is designed to warm the engine block of diesel and natural gas standby generators, giving them a better chance of starting up efficiently. They’re typically supplied for liquid-cooled generators either as a factory-installed component or as an add-on option for purchasers.

These are useful in the winter, especially given that outdoor temperatures are low, inevitably decreasing a generator’s engine temperature. When the temperature is lowered, parts of the engine can’t be lubricated properly, leading to wear and tear from cold startups that will affect the battery. Not only do they reduce wear on the engine, but they can also help reduce emissions and condensation and cut back on startup time. Additionally, the NFPA requires generators to operate within 10 seconds of a power outage.

Types of Block Heaters for Standby Generators

Engine block heaters can warm your standby generator by directly warming the block or heating the water, hydraulic fluid, or antifreeze coolants to heat oil, which is required for diesel engines to start. A range of block heaters are used for a specific purpose. The different types of engine block heaters to choose from include:

• Immersion heaters
• Magnetic heaters
• Dipstick heaters
• Circulation heaters
• Cartridge heaters

Maintaining Engine Block Heaters

Along with ensuring proper sizing, routine maintenance of your engine block heater is crucial. To keep it in pristine condition, there are tips homeowners can follow to keep things in check. Practice the following maintenance techniques to keep your engine block heater equipped to optimize your backup generator so it can best take care of you:

• Inspect your heater weekly.
• Drain, clean, and flush the system every two years.
• Keep the system free from dust, dirt, and debris buildup.
• Avoid using hard water.
• Ensure proper mixing of antifreeze.
• Change rubber hoses every three years or switch to silicone hoses for best results.

Invest in an Engine Block Heater for Your Residential or Commercial Generator

Generator Services, Inc. is here for you if you’re considering an engine block heater for your residential or commercial heater. We’ll discuss the value of installing one to ensure better operation for your standby generator when it’s cold out in western South Carolina.

We offer same-day services, upfront pricing, and financing options, and we proudly have 35+ years in the industry. Our company is family-owned and -operated, and our technicians are background-checked, licensed, and insured. We service all manufacturers, so no matter what brand of generator you depend on, we’ll have a solution for you.

Ensure your standby generator is equipped to keep your home or business powered as long as required with engine block heater services from Generator Services, Inc.