Having a generator for your home is more than just an important safety precaution – it represents a rather large investment. With proper generator maintenance, you can prevent breakdowns and have a backup source of power when you need it the most. Also, this maintenance can help you avoid having to replace your generator sooner than necessary.
If you pay attention to the generator maintenance tips, you will be able to keep your generator in superior condition and use it when it’s needed most.
Cover the Generator When Not in Use
It is essential for you to buy and use a cover for your portable generator that will keep water and moisture away. Also, a quality cover can help to prevent debris from collecting that could cause damage to your unit.
Power Your Generator Up Frequently
If you want to ensure your generator will be ready to go when needed, you have to take care of it when it isn’t being used. This means that you power it up once per quarter for about 15 to 30-minute increments. This will charge up the battery and let you know of any problems before they occur. The worst time for you to discover an issue with your generator is when you need it the most.
Fill the Generator Up
Every time you turn your generator on, be sure that you check its fuel level, too. Be sure that it’s full so that you don’t run out of fuel when you need your generator the most and remember to use a fuel stabilizer if you plan to store your generator with fuel.
Clean and Check the Filter
A safety measure you don’t want to neglect is checking, cleaning, and changing the air filter on a regular basis. Be sure to check the condition of your generators filter to see if it is able to do its job. If the filter is dirty of full of debris, it won’t be able to perform properly. Also, make sure the filter isn’t warped, or misshapen in some other way.
If you notice any issues, be sure to clean it or change it, as needed. Even if the filter isn’t visibly damaged, most manufacturers recommend that you change your generator’s filter after 100 hours of use, so be sure to keep this in mind.
Check Your Generator’s Oil
Be sure that you check your generator’s oil before you power it up. If you have a new generator, be sure to change the oil after the initial break-in period. Besides this, be sure to change the generator’s oil per the manufacture’s recommendation to maintain superior operational conditions.
When you take the time to maintain and care for your generator, you can avoid possible failures. Also, this will help to keep your machine clean, dry and make sure that it will work efficiently when you need it most.
If you need help with your generator maintenance, be sure to contact the professionals. They can help ensure your unit continues working properly.