Owning a backup generator is a critical part of their emergency preparedness plan for many people. With unpredictable weather in both the winter and the summer months, an unexpected storm can cause power loss to entire geographic areas. Although utility crews work quickly and efficiently to restore power, sometimes it can be days before they can fully restore it. An emergency generator ensures that you have air conditioning, heat, and power to critical appliances (such as your refrigerator) during this time. However, many generator owners do not realize how important it is to have a maintenance plan in place for this system. Without proper maintenance, you may encounter a situation where your generator does not work properly when you need it the most. Here are some tips for properly maintaining your home generator.
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You never know if you will need to run your generator for an extended period. For this reason, you should keep some extra oil and filters (oil and air filters) on hand to best prepare for this possibility. Your generator will not serve its purpose if it cannot run for the duration of your power outage.
It’s easy to forget about your generator when you aren’t using it, but remembering to check it regularly will help you avoid any surprises in the event of a power outage. At least every two weeks, check for any debris, such as branches, leaves, or other things that block it or might prevent it from working correctly. At least monthly, you should activate the “self-test” feature (if your system has one) to ensure that it is in working order and listen to see if it makes any strange noises. If your system does not have a “self-test” feature, make sure that you run it about once a month for approximately 10-15 minutes.
Like with a car, the oil and coolant in your generator need regular replacement to ensure that it runs efficiently when needed. Check your unit’s oil and coolant levels at least once a month and top them off as needed. Most units usually require the first oil change after 25 to 30 hours of running, and then after that, it can run a bit longer between changes. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for how often you should change the oil.
As with your regular cooling and heating systems for your house, you should make a point to schedule a professional to come out and “tune-up” your generator at least once per year or if you notice any particular issues during your own checks. A reputable generator repair company can perform this service. The technician will check the electrical system and replace the spark plugs if necessary. They will also change the oil, flush the coolant, and ensure that your transfer switch works properly. Finally, they will make sure that it is free from smoke or leaks.
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