Generators can incur several issues like any other equipment due to component malfunctions or wear and tear. One of the most common generator issues you might face is a failure to start.
Several reasons can lead to your generator failing to start, most commonly a dead battery. But if you change the battery and the generator still won't start, it means some of the generator's components are defective. Here are three common reasons why a generator may refuse to start.
1. Damaged or Worn-out Spark Plugs
The spark plug creates the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture that starts the generator. But as time passes, spark plugs become worn out or damaged. Thus, if your generator refuses to start, check the condition of the spark plug.
Common signs of a damaged spark plug include:
Sometimes, your spark plug may have some of the above signs but still function correctly. Hence, before assuming a defective spark plug is why your generator won't start, test it with a spark plug tester. If the spark plug tester terminals don't produce a strong spark, the spark plug is defective.
Consider replacing the sparkplug or calling a generator repair contractor to replace it for you.
2. Defective Ignition Coil
Your generator may fail to start when you have a good spark plug but a defective ignition coil. The ignition coil is the component that sends voltage to the spark plug when starting the generator.
If the ignition coil is defective, it won't provide enough voltage for the sparkplug to create a spark. Thus, the generator will make various attempts to start to no avail. Common signs of a defective ignition coil include hard starts and stalling from the generator.
Hence, if your spark plug is okay, but your generator still won't start, call a generator repair contractor to check your ignition coil.
3. Clogged or Malfunctioning Carburetor
If your sparkplug and ignition coil are still active, the carburetor is the next possible reason your generator won't start.
The carburetor regulates the air/fuel mixture going into the generator's small engine. Hence, when the carburetor has an issue, it might fail to provide enough air and fuel to start the generator.
A common reason why your generator's carburetor might malfunction is clogging. Clogging occurs when degraded fuel sediments get stuck in the carburetor.
Degraded fuel contains sticky lumps called fuel bugs. When these fuel bugs enter the carburetor, they become attached to the carburetor walls causing a clog. Hence, the carburetor can't provide enough air/fuel mixture to start the generator.
If your generator won't start, check the fuel quality in the generator's tank. Call a generator repair contractor to clean your carburetor if the fuel contains sticky lumps (fuel bugs).
For more information on generator repair, contact a professional near you.
Share26 July 2022
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