The installation of a standby generator is one of the best investments that a homeowner can make. If there is a power outage, you can count on the generator to provide you with the electricity needed to keep your house up and running. This means your family will be able to remain warm or cool, have lighting, to keep food from spoiling, and to power devices that provide proper communication.
It isn’t unusual for a standby generator to last for 20 years, or more, if they are properly maintained and serviced. Unfortunately, there are many homeowners who avoid routine maintenance because they don’t have a plan.
Create a Maintenance Plan
The first step is to review the recommended maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer. You will discover that most maintenance schedules are based on the hours used and the time periods used.
Generators that are used more often are going to need servicing more frequently. However, a generator that isn’t used as often will need less maintenance. There are certain environmental factors, such as extreme cold, dust, humidity, and heat that also require special service and maintenance.
Year-Round Checklist
Each week, you need to ensure your generator is programmed to run automatically, to ensure there are no issues. Each month, when the generator’s engine is cool, the fluid and battery charger levels need to be checked. You also need to make sure the area around your generator is clear of any debris.
You also need to provide service at six months. At this point, the enclosure needs to be checked, the battery tested, and the lines, hoses, exhaust system, connectors, belts, and air filter should be inspected by a professional.
Each year, you need to have a qualified, professional technician maintain the generator and to inspect all electrical connections. While there, the pro should also flush the cooling system and they should replace the filters and the fluid.
Keep in mind, this isn’t a comprehensive maintenance checklist. However, it should provide you with an idea of what needs to be done to keep your generator running properly and operating for as long as possible.
Finding a Professional to Keep Your Standby Generator Working Properly
It’s crucial to keep your standby generator working properly to ensure that you have access to power when it’s needed. Regardless of if it is a bad storm or another issue, generators can provide you with the peace of mind you need. However, the only way you can be confident that your generator is going to work when you need it most is by having it maintained on a regular basis.
When choosing a professional to help with this maintenance, be sure to find someone with prior experience and who is able to provide the services needed on a regular basis. This is going to ensure any standby generator continues to work properly and that it has the longest lifespan possible.
