What Is An Air Filter and What Does It Do?

An air filter is a vital component of any diesel generator – it filters the air that enters the engine, preventing harmful particles and debris from damaging the engine. The air filter’s role is to ensure that the engine receives clean air to burn the fuel efficiently and provide optimal performance. Without an air filter, dust, dirt, and other debris can easily enter the engine, causing performance issues.

The air filter in a diesel generator is subject to wear and tear and needs to be replaced regularly. A dirty or clogged air filter can lead to a reduction in airflow, which can cause the engine to work harder, leading to increased fuel consumption and reduced generator lifespan. In addition, a dirty air filter can prevent the engine from starting altogether.

To ensure that the air filter is working optimally, it is essential to maintain it regularly. This involves cleaning the filter and replacing it with original equipment manufacturer parts. Neglecting or overlooking the maintenance of the air filter can result in costly repairs and downtime, affecting your business’s operations.

Here are our top tips for keeping the health of your generator in check in between maintenance visits:

  • Undertake a visual inspection – Problems with your generator can be uncovered with a thorough visual inspection – check parts like hoses and belts for any leaks and signs of wear. Also check your fuel, oil, and coolant levels.
  • Use high quality fluids – Your generator will run best with high quality coolant, oil, and fuel. Avoid contaminants and build-up that interfere with a generator’s performance by choosing high-quality fluids and testing the fuel regularly to ensure it is not degrading.
  • Run your generator regularly – Low usage of your generator can cause wet stacking’ or build up in the engine exhaust and air in your fuel system, leading to damage to the internal parts of your generator. It’s important to run your generator regularly for a short period of time to avoid any issues.
  • Only use Original Equipment Management (OEM) parts – OEM parts, including air filters, fuel filters and oil filters that are endorsed by the generator manufacturer can extend the life expectancy of your diesel generator and provide a predictable expense for your business.

At Shanahan Power, our Asset Care Management service guarantees that you won’t get left in the dark with regular maintenance by our service engineers, and access to our 24/7/365 Breakdown Assist facility. Contact us to find out more!