Generator Repair Services Key Terms

Learn the terms you need for navigating generator system repair and maintenance

By Lesley Graybeal

A generator system, while utilized by many businesses and homes, is a complex device that requires routine maintenance and repair, as well as a specialized vocabulary. Although generators can be useful in meeting everyday or back up power needs efficiently and consistently, different types of generators have distinct service needs. Furthermore, a basic knowledge of generator types and uses, parts of a generator, repair practices and service routines can help reduce the need for major repairs and make sure that generator systems stay running reliably.

Generator system

A generator system describes the generator motor and all of its components, and typically refers to a large-scale power generator used by a factory or in another industrial setting. The generator system includes the motor or turbine, fuel or input, cooling components and others, any of which may need repair or maintenance.
Try: Read a concise definition of a generator system, or genset, from ERS Cooling Systems.

DC generator

A DC generator is a high-powered electric generator that involves the use of an electromagnet to produce power. DC stands for direct current, as opposed to AC, or alternating current. These types of generators require the use of a number of parts, including a magnet and an alternator, any of which may malfunction and require repair.
Try: Polar Power details the features of a DC generator, and also compares DC generators side-by-side with AC generators, which do not use an alternator.

Residential generator

A residential generator is a smaller capacity generator designed for use in non-industrial settings like office buildings, schools or homes. A residential generator may be fixed in location or portable, and may operate on natural gas or propane, like an industrial generator, or battery power for lower voltage levels. A residential generator can often be quickly repaired on site or shipped in for factory repair.
Try: Read more about residential generator functions and operations from Cummins Onan.

Voltage regulator

The voltage regulator is a device present on generators that controls the voltage flowing through a generator and allows monitoring for proper generator operation. If your generator is overheating, the voltage regulator is likely in need of repair or replacement.
Try: Optimum Power Services provides a brief definition of the voltage regulator, and Erlich Industrial Development offers a more technical definition and diagram.

Brush

The brush is a generator component that acts as a conductor and maintains contact between static and moving parts in the generator motor. Generators may involve the use of two or three brushes, with three-brush generators often referred to as third brush generators.
Try: Briggs & Stratton provides a definition of the brush in their glossary of generator terms.

Overhaul

An engine overhaul is the most extreme type of generator repair, and requires that a generator be dismantled, faulty or broken parts replaced, reassembled and reinstalled on site. An overhaul usually takes place in the factory, and any parts that are repaired or replaced in an overhaul must meet factory new standards.
Try: Read more about what an overhaul entails from Teledyne Mattituck Services.