When cooler weather arrives in Southeast Texas, it’s easy to assume your generator will perform just as it did during the hot summer months. But aging generators—especially those with high hours, worn components, or long idle periods—often face hidden risks when temperatures drop.
Even mild cold fronts can expose weaknesses in older systems. Here are five issues to watch for as winter approaches, and how to stop them from turning into costly failures:
- Fuel system contamination
Older fuel tanks are more likely to collect water, microbial growth, or debris. In cooler weather, this contamination can thicken, clog filters, or disrupt fuel flow.
Prevention: Inspect tanks, drain water, replace filters, and treat fuel ahead of the season. - Weak batteries and starter strain
A battery that worked fine in July may not crank the engine on a cold December morning. Aging starters also draw more current in cooler conditions.
Prevention: Load-test batteries, replace weak units, and inspect starter components before winter. - Cracked belts, hoses, and seals
Heat cycles wear rubber components over time. When exposed to cold air, these parts can stiffen or crack, leading to leaks or belt slippage.
Prevention: Inspect and replace any aging rubber components—especially on high-hour units. - Poor airflow from blocked vents
Leaves, dirt, and seasonal debris often accumulate inside and around older generator enclosures. When humidity rises and temperatures drop, this material can get damp and further restrict airflow.
Prevention: Clear all ventilation paths and inspect the enclosure for blockages. - Control and sensor failure during temperature swings
Aging sensors may drift out of calibration, causing incorrect readings for coolant temp, oil pressure, or voltage. Inconsistent data can trigger shutdowns or mask real problems.
Prevention: Schedule a diagnostic evaluation and recalibrate sensors before peak winter usage.
Why this matters for your operation
Unexpected downtime during a cold front can halt job-site work, delay production, or jeopardize backup systems. If your generator is aging or showing erratic behavior, now is the time to address it—not after temperatures drop.
Cat5 Power Solutions offers Bobcat® generator rentals, maintenance, inspections, and replacement guidance to keep your power reliable through winter and beyond.
Cooler weather reveals hidden vulnerabilities in older generators. Inspecting, testing, and preparing your equipment now can save thousands in downtime and repairs later. When you need seasonal support, updated equipment, or a dependable rental solution, Cat5 Power Solutions has you covered.