How and Why to Drain Diesel from Your Industrial Generator

Home/Generator fuel tank, Generator Maintenance, Generator Preventative Maintenance/How and Why to Drain Diesel from Your Industrial Generator


In industrial power generation, the reliability of generators is very important. A crucial aspect of ensuring performance is the periodic draining of diesel from these robust machines.

This article discusses the reasons behind this maintenance practice, showing the adverse effects of stagnant fuel on generator components. By following a systematic approach, users can safeguard their industrial generators from fuel degradation, engine damage, and operational inefficiencies. 

Why Drain Diesel From Your Industrial Generator? 

Draining diesel from your industrial generator is a maintenance practice with many benefits. The primary reason lies in preventing fuel degradation. Over time, dieseloline can undergo chemical changes, forming varnish and gum deposits that can compromise the integrity of the fuel system. By draining the diesel regularly, you reduce the risk of these deposits clogging essential components such as carburettors and injectors.

Draining diesel from generator

Engine Safety

Moreover, stagnant fuel poses a significant threat to the engine itself. The use of stale fuel can lead to starting issues and, in severe cases, result in permanent engine damage. Draining the diesel ensures that only fresh, high-quality fuel is present, promoting smoother starts and reducing the likelihood of engine-related problems.

This practice becomes important during periods of generator inactivity. When stored for extended durations, generators are susceptible to fuel breakdown, which can result in gum formation and overall fuel inefficiency. Draining the diesel before storage prevents these issues, ensuring that the generator remains in optimal condition for its next use.

Increasing Efficiency

Beyond these considerations, draining diesel contributes to the overall efficiency of the fuel system. Filters and injectors within the system are prone to clogs caused by the accumulation of impurities present in degraded fuel.

Regular drainage helps maintain the system’s efficiency, preventing potential malfunctions and costly repairs.

Increased Reliability

When faced with emergencies or power outages, the ability of an industrial generator to start instantly is paramount. Draining diesel and replacing it with fresh fuel enhances the generator’s performance, providing a reliable power source when needed most.

The act of draining diesel from your industrial generator is important and aims to safeguard its longevity and performance. It is an investment in the reliability of your power source, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns, minimizing repair costs, and ensuring that your generator is always prepared to deliver the energy your operations demand. 

How Do You Drain Diesel From Your Industrial Generator? 

Draining diesel from generator

Draining diesel from your industrial generator is an important procedure to maintain its optimal performance and longevity. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure thorough and effective diesel drainage:

Safety First

Before starting any maintenance, ensure the generator is turned off and has cooled down. Put on safety gloves and goggles to protect yourself from fuel exposure.

Disconnect Power

Unplug the spark plug wire to turn off the ignition system. This prevents accidental starts during maintenance.

Locate the Fuel Shutoff Valve

Know the fuel shutoff valve. This is located close to the fuel tank. Turn the valve to the “off” position using a wrench.

Run the Generator

Start the generator and let it run until it stalls. This ensures that the fuel lines are empty. This reduces the amount of fuel left in the system.

Add Fuel Stabilizer 

If storing the generator for an extended period, add a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel. This helps prevent fuel degradation during storage.

Remove the Fuel Line

Use a hand pump to disconnect the fuel line from the generator’s fuel injection system. Connect the other end of the line to a suitable container.

Drain the Fuel

Begin pumping the fuel into the container. Ensure that you collect all the fuel from the tank and fuel lines.

Generator accesories

Dispose of Old Fuel Properly

Follow local regulations for the proper disposal of old fuel. Take it to an appropriate disposal facility or follow local guidelines for safe disposal.

Reconnect the Fuel Line

Once the fuel is drained, reconnect the fuel line to the generator. Turn the fuel shutoff valve to the “on” position.

Refill with Fresh Fuel

Refill the generator with fresh, clean fuel to ensure optimal performance.

Reconnect Power

Reconnect the spark plug wire to restore power to the ignition system.

Benefits of Regular Diesel Draining 

Draining diesel from generator

Regular diesel draining from your industrial generator has many benefits that extend beyond immediate operational enhancements. 

Increased Life Span

One of the primary advantages lies in the preservation of the generator’s lifespan. Stagnant fuel, prone to degradation over time, can lead to the formation of varnish and gum deposits, which in turn compromise critical components such as carburetors and injectors.

Through consistent diesel drainage, these issues are proactively mitigated, ensuring that the generator functions optimally and experiences fewer instances of breakdown or malfunction.

Protection Against Engine Damage 

Moreover, the act of draining diesel serves as a preventive measure against potential engine damage. When generators utilize stale or degraded fuel, starting issues can arise, and long-term use may result in harm to the engine. By regularly draining and replenishing with fresh fuel, the risk of engine-related problems is reduced significantly, contributing to the overall durability of the generator.

This maintenance practice becomes very important during periods of inactivity or storage.

Keeping the Generator Ready to Use whenever Required

Generators stored for long durations are susceptible to fuel breakdown, leading to the formation of gum and varnish deposits. Regular diesel drainage before storage mitigates these issues, ensuring that the generator is ready for operation when needed without the complications associated with degraded fuel.

Increased Efficiency

Efficiency is a cornerstone of a well-functioning industrial generator, and regular diesel draining plays a pivotal role in optimizing the fuel system. Filters and injectors within the system are prone to clogs caused by impurities present in degraded fuel. By draining the diesel regularly, these components remain clean and functional, minimizing the need for costly repairs and promoting overall fuel system efficiency.

Improved Performance

Furthermore, the benefits of regular diesel drainage extend to improved performance and reliability during critical times. Fresh fuel enhances the generator’s starting performance, ensuring prompt ignition during emergencies or power outages. This reliability is necessary in situations where the generator serves as a primary or backup power source, emphasizing the importance of proactive maintenance measures.

Operational Improvements

The regular draining of diesel from your industrial generator offered immediate operational improvements. It is an investment in the life of the equipment, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns, minimizing repair costs, and ensuring that the generator stands ready to deliver consistent and reliable power whenever the need arises. 

Actionable Adverbs

Regular diesel draining emerges as a pivotal measure in safeguarding the quality of your industrial generator. By preventing fuel degradation, reducing maintenance costs, and optimizing performance, this proactive practice extends the generator’s lifespan and ensures its safe prevention during critical moments.

Using these steps increases the efficiency of the fuel system and contributes to a seamless and reliable power supply. As an integral component of generator maintenance, regular diesel draining is an investment that gives returns in better performance and operational dependability, ensuring your industrial generator passes the tests of time and usage. 

Dealing with the best industrial equipment, Swift Equipment Solutions is your go-to platform for all your generator-related needs and solutions! Be it natural diesel and diesel-based generators, we excel at buying and selling generators at a reasonable cost!

FAQs about Draining Diesel from generator

Q1. How do you drain diesel from your industrial generator? 

To drain diesel from your Industrial generator, empty the old fuel line and refill it with fresh fuel while taking all the safety precautions. 

Q2. When Should I Drain Diesel From My Industrial Generator? 

Diesel should be drained from your Industrial Generator after Prolonged use. Long hours of usage may deposit some dirt and debris in the fuel tank. It is advisable to always clean it at regular intervals. 

Q3. What happens when I use Old diesel in the Generator for a Long time? 

The fuel quality worsens over time, which can cause damage to the generator and may affect its performance.

By | 2024-03-14T03:22:36-06:00 December 20th, 2023|Categories: Generator fuel tank, Generator Maintenance, Generator Preventative Maintenance|0 Comments

About the Author:

Avatar of temp admin

Leave A Comment