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Owning a standby generator is a great way to make sure your home stays powered in the event of an outage. However, if you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your standby generator until you need it. If you want to make sure your generator is in good working order when you do need it, there are some things you need to do on a regular basis to make sure it is working as it should.
Here are some of the key maintenance tasks you should perform regularly to keep your whole-house standby generator running smoothly. Whether you’ve just installed a new generator bought from https://bestofmachinery.com/ or have had one for years, be sure to follow these tips.
Read the owner’s manual
The first and most crucial step in maintaining your whole-house generator is reading the owner’s manual. Every generator is different and has specific instructions on operating and maintaining it to ensure optimal performance. Failing to follow the proper procedures could damage the unit or even cause a fire. Experts in Akron, OH generators note that the manual is your key to safe and successful generator use.
It provides every detail you need about your generator’s make and model, from start-up procedures to recommended maintenance. The manual is also a valuable resource in an emergency situation. Be sure to keep it in an easily accessible location. While some of the maintenance work needed requires a professional, you can do some general tasks yourself by simply following the guidelines.
Carefully monitor the generator’s weekly self-cycle
Your generator has a weekly self-cycle that it goes through. This is where the oil and fuel are circulated throughout the system. This cycle is automatically set to run for roughly 20 minutes at the same time and day every week. Never interrupt this cycle or try to speed it up. If you do, you could damage the generator. To keep your generator in good condition, you should monitor this process each week.
If anything seems off or out of place, take action to correct it before it becomes a bigger issue. For instance, if you start hearing unusual sounds or the generator seems to be running hotter than normal, take a look at the oil or fuel levels. Make sure it’s still within the safe range and hasn’t dropped too low. If you’re not sure about anything, call a professional for help.
Ensure it’s on “auto” mode for automatic start-up
One of the most important things to remember about your whole home standby generator is that it needs to be in “auto” mode. This will ensure that it starts up automatically when there is a power outage, and shuts off safety when the power comes back on. You don’t want to have to worry about remembering to start your generator every time there’s a blackout. This may seem obvious, but it’s an easy mistake to make.
By ensuring your whole-house generator is in “auto” mode, you can avoid the stress and know that your home will be powered up when you need it most. You’ll also be able to relax and know that your home is safe and protected, as well as protect your generator from unnecessary wear and tear.
Conduct basic monthly inspections
You should also conduct basic monthly inspections on the generator to ensure it’s in proper working order. This includes checking the fuel levels, oil levels, and coolant levels. If the levels are low, refill them immediately. You should also check the air filter to ensure it’s not clogged and replace it if necessary. Don’t forget to inspect the battery and its housing to check for signs of leakage or corrosion.
You should also inspect the belts, hoses, and external parts for wear and tear. If you notice any problems, take corrective action as soon as possible. In most cases, if your generator was installed professionally, you shouldn’t have to do much more than monthly inspections. These basic maintenance tasks are all about keeping the generator running smoothly and keeping you and your family safe.
Ensure the generator is clean and free of debris
Your generator needs to be free of debris inside and outside the enclosure in order to function properly. Ensure you clean it off regularly and check for any signs of damage. Debris can cause the generator to overheat or malfunction. Considering that whole-house standby generators are installed outside and often near the home, they’re more likely to accumulate debris than portable generators.
Be sure to keep the area around your generator free of any combustible materials as well. This will help avoid any potential fires. Ensure no vegetation or other materials are obstructing the air intake or exhaust on the generator. If you notice any pests like rodents or snakes near your generator, take steps to get rid of them and protect your equipment. Standby generators are a significant investment, so take the necessary precautions to keep yours running smoothly for years to come.
Schedule bi-annual preventative maintenance
Bi-annual preventative maintenance is a must to ensure your whole-house generator is running smoothly, efficiently, and safely. Scheduling these routine checkups will help to identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues. If you live in a particularly harsh climate, this is vital. A professional will inspect your generator and make sure everything is in good condition. They may also:
- Change the oil and oil filter
- Change the air and fuel filters
- Replace the spark plugs
- Test the fuel
- Flush the cooling system, if needed
- Inspect the battery, cables and other wiring
The goal is to catch any potential problems before they cause a generator malfunction and leave you without power when you need it.
Ensure the longevity of your generator
Following these simple tips and routine maintenance will help ensure the longevity of your whole-house generator. Taking care of your standby power equipment will not only save you money in the long run, but it could also prevent a power outage when you need it most. Go ahead and schedule your maintenance checkup today – it’s better to be safe than sorry.
