Picture this: a blackout strikes, and your trusted generator refuses to start. That’s the last thing you need. Generators are necessary for backup power, but they’re only reliable when you take good care of them.
If you want your generator to run well consistently regular generator service is paramount.
But how often? Do you do it every year, every few months, or just when something goes wrong?
By knowing the optimal servicing schedule, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your generator. This delivers peace of mind because you know it will work flawlessly during emergencies.
Read on to learn more about generator servicing and keeping your generator running smoothly for years.
Essential Generator Servicing Tasks
Your generator doesn’t care if you are cold, in the dark, or desperate. It either works or it doesn’t. Neglect your backup power system, and it’ll likely fail you when you need it most.
As IBM says, preventive maintenance is almost always cheaper in the long run. To keep your generator running, you must follow these essential generator maintenance tips:
- Oil and Filter Changes: Metal grinds. Oil wears. Change it regularly, or the engine will punish your neglect.
- Battery Maintenance: A generator without power is a contradiction. Test the battery often. If it hesitates, replace it.
- Fuel System Checks: Fuel grows stale. It clogs, it gunks, and it chokes. Keep it fresh. Run the engine now and then. Let it breathe.
- Cooling System Inspection: Heat kills engines. Keep coolant levels proper. A boiled engine is a dead engine.
- Load Testing: A generator must work under pressure. Test it. Push it. If it fails now, it will fail when it matters.
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring your generator operates effectively during emergencies. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that emergency power supply systems be inspected weekly and exercised monthly to guarantee reliability.
The only thing worse than being without power in an emergency is being without power despite having a generator, so make sure you and your family are protected.
The generator performance check is not an optional indulgence but a necessity. Keep up with maintenance duties, or prepare for failure. The choice is yours.
Warning Signs Your Generator is Failing
The hums and clicks of your generator are more than just background noise, they’re a crucial signal for diagnosing a failing unit. If you ignore these signs, it might just let you down when you need it the most.
When your generator starts slow or rough-hesitating, struggling, or stuttering to life, it’s trying to tell you something’s off. Maybe it’s the battery, the fuel, or the spark, whatever the case, it indicates a mechanical issue.
If your generator starts making strange noises, pay attention. A healthy generator operates smoothly, but if it’s rattling, knocking, or shrieking, that’s a cry for help.
Then there’s the smoke and leaks. A little smoke is normal, but if it’s excessive or you spot oil or fuel dripping, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. If the power output starts fluctuating and you notice the lights flickering or the voltage dipping, it’s a sign your backup is failing.
Another red flag is unusual fuel consumption. If it’s using more fuel but delivering less power, that’s an obvious sign that something is faulty.
Here’s the thing: your generator is only as good as its weakest part. If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t wait.
You should find the issue and fix it. Because when a storm hits and the power goes out, you would rather not be left in the dark.
How Often Should You Service Your Generator?
If the power dies, your generator becomes a lifeline. But like any support system, it needs regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.
The type of generator you have will determine how often you service it. Each one has its rhythm and its own needs.
- Portable generators: These are the workhorses for camping trips, tailgates, or short-term power needs. They’re tough, but they require servicing after every 50-60 hours of use. If you only use it occasionally, getting it checked and maintained once a year will keep it working well.
- Standby generators: These are the silent guardians of your home or business, kicking in automatically during an outage. A bi-annual check-up is required before periods of heavy use (like winter or storm season)
- Inverter generators: Sleek, efficient, and quieter than the rest, these are perfect for sensitive electronics. They are relatively maintenance-free, but they still need a once-a-year service to keep them running smoothly.
- Diesel generators: Built for heavy-duty use, these beasts are often found on construction sites or powering large facilities. They need to be checked every three months, especially if they operate long hours.
The U.S. Department of Energy emphasizes that proper engineering, installation, testing, and maintenance are essential for the reliable performance of backup power sources.
No matter the type, your generator thrives on consistency. If you ignore its needs, it might just ignore yours when it matters most. Service it regularly and it’ll be ready to roar to life when the grid falls silent.
Correct Storage of Your Generator
To ensure your generator stays reliable during long-term storage, follow these key steps:
- Fuel Stabilization: Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation and keep the fuel system clean
- Battery Care: Disconnect and store the battery in a cool, dry place
- Clean and Cover: Clean the exterior, lubricate moving parts, and store the generator in a dry, dust-free environment
- Periodic Run Times: Start the generator every 3-6 months to keep internal components lubricated and functional
Proper storage prevents costly repairs, extends your generator’s life, and reduces the need for extensive generator servicing.
Reliable Power Starts with Proper Care
A generator is only as good as the care it receives. Stay ahead of maintenance, recognize the warning signs, and follow a proper generator upkeep frequency. Do that and your generator will be there when you need it most, keeping you connected even when the world goes dark.
We’re committed to providing top-quality generators and unmatched generator servicing. Whether you’re preparing for an outage or ensuring long-term reliability, we keep you connected when it matters most. Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your generator needs!
(713) 830 3280