A generator keeps your home’s power running during an electrical outage. Summer is a great time to give your generator some attention. Whether it’s a portable unit or a standby generator that kicks on automatically, here are some tips for staying on top of its maintenance.
Run It Regularly
Generators aren’t meant to sit idle for months at a time. If yours hasn’t been started in a while, now is a good time to change that. Running your generator for 20-30 minutes every month under a light load helps keep the engine lubricated, prevents fuel system issues, and lets you catch any problems before you actually need the unit to perform.
Standby generators typically have an automatic exercise cycle built in. Check your owner’s manual to make sure it’s set up correctly and running as intended.
Check the Oil
Just like a car engine, a generator needs clean oil to run properly. Check the oil level before each use and change it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. For most generators, that means an oil change after every 100 hours of operation or at least once a year. Make sure your generator is using the right oil. The wrong oil, or letting it go too long between changes, can cause serious engine wear over time.
Inspect the Air Filter
A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine and forces it to work harder than it should. Pull the filter out and take a look. Is it dirty or clogged with debris? If so, replace it.
Test the Battery
If your generator has an electric start, make sure its batteries are in good shape. Batteries can lose their charge over time, especially if the generator hasn’t been used in a while. Test the battery and clean any corrosion off the terminals. If the battery is more than a few years old or isn’t holding a charge, replace it.
Check the Fuel System
Stale fuel is one of the most common causes of generator problems. Gasoline can degrade in as little as 30 days without a fuel stabilizer added. If your portable generator has been sitting with old fuel in the tank, drain it and refill with fresh gas. Adding a fuel stabilizer going forward will help keep the fuel fresh between uses.
For propane or natural gas units, check the connections and supply lines for any signs of wear or leaks.
Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Even if everything looks fine from the outside, having a qualified electrician or generator technician perform an annual inspection is worth it. They can check voltage output, test the automatic transfer switch on standby units, and identify worn parts before they become a bigger problem.
A well-maintained generator is one you can count on. A little time spent on upkeep now means you won’t be left without power when you need it most.
Looking for reliable generator maintenance services near Mount Holly, NJ? Contact Raynor Services to get started.
