Generally, it is not recommended to run a commercial diesel generator during rain as it will result in electrical hazards, component damage, and reduced performance. The generator should be kept dry for safe and seamless operation. If you need to operate the generator in wet conditions, make use of protections like a canopy, and do not operate it if you’re wet or if you’re standing in a wet place.

In this blog, let’s discuss why you should avoid running a commercial diesel generator in rain and what precautions you can take if you must use a generator in wet conditions. 

Table of contents 

  • Why should not run a commercial diesel generator in the rain?
  • Precautions to be followed if you want to use the generator in wet conditions

Why should not run a commercial diesel generator in the rain?

Running a diesel generator in rain results in significant safety risks including electrocution and generator damage. Water affects the generator’s components, may result in ground faults, and create a dangerous environment for anyone operating or near the generator.   

Some of the risk factors involved in operating the generator in the rain:

Electrocution Risk: 

Water is a good conductor of electricity, when water and electricity combine, it increases the risk of electrocution if someone comes in contact with the generator or touches its electrical connections. 

Generator Damage 

Moisture or rain will damage electrical equipment, internal parts, and wiring of the generator leading to malfunction or generator failure. 

Ground faults 

Water may create a conducting path between the ground and the generator’s electrical system that increases the risk of ground faults. The ground faults will result in power outages and make the generator operation dangerous.

Operator’s safety 

Even if the generator is properly grounded, the water presence will increase the risk of electrical shock, and also operating or staying near the generator is very dangerous as it results in electrocution. 

Carbon monoxide poisoning 

As it is not directly related to rain, it is important to remember diesel generators release exhaust that contains carbon monoxide which is an odorless and deadly gas. Operating the generator in a closed space or when exhaust is drawn into buildings can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning regardless of rain. 

Generator damage 

Rain can lead to water infiltration in generator components which will risk electrical shock and short circuit. Water will damage internal parts leading to premature failure or costly damage. Wet conditions will affect engine performance causing it to run inefficiently or stall. 

Precautions to be followed if you want to use the generator in wet conditions

If you want to use the generator in wet conditions, follow the below precautions:

Make use of a canopy or shelter 

Protecting the generator from the rain with the help of a waterproof canopy or shelter is important to stop water from entering the generator. 

Grounding 

The generator should be properly grounded and all grounding connections should be intact during wet conditions. 

Make use of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs):

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (.gov) says GFCI helps to avoid electrical shock by automatically turning off the power if any fault or damage is detected in the electric circuit. 

Read Manufacturer’s Instructions 

Always read the generator’s manual for instructions to operate commercial diesel generators in wet conditions and their safety recommendations. 

To safely access your diesel generator during wet conditions, contact our expert today. 

CS Diesel Generators provides a range of used and new commercial generators for your industries and commercial spaces. Our experts provide installation service, after-sales support, and additional services upon customer request. Contact our expert today and know the safety precautions to access generators during rain. 

FAQs about Running a Commercial Diesel Generator in the Rain

Can you run a commercial diesel generator in the rain?

It is not recommended to run a commercial diesel generator in the rain as it will result in electrical hazards, component damage, and reduced performance. 

What are the precautions to be followed if you want to use the generator in wet conditions?

To access commercial generators during rain, make use of a canopy or shelter, proper grounding, Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), and read manufacturer’s guidelines.