Follow These Generator Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Generator Ready For The Next Power Outage!

As reliable as today’s electrical systems are, they’re not failsafe. Power outages still happen - and usually at the worst possible time. Whether it’s due to a summer storm, a blown transformer, or a grid issue, a power outage for even a few hours can throw your entire day (or week) off track. This is especially critical for businesses and healthcare facilities.

Luckily, standby generators provide a powerful line of defense against power outages. The moment your home loses power, a well-maintained standby generator kicks on automatically. The key word is "well-maintained." So, if you’ve got a standby generator just waiting for its moment to shine - don’t ignore it. Keep it ready.

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric, we offer some tips on maintaining a generator installation so that your backup power comes through when it counts.

Test It Regularly - Even When You Don’t Need It

Generators are kind of like fire extinguishers: you hope you never need them, but they’d better work when you do. The best way to ensure your generator is in working condition? Give it a workout now and then.

Most standby generators are programmed to run a weekly or bi-weekly self-test. You might hear it idle for about 10–15 minutes. If your generator isn’t doing this, or you’re not sure, then give your electrician or generator tech a call.

If it doesn’t self-test, you can (and should) manually start it once a month. Let it run for 10–15 minutes under load to simulate real usage.

Keep It Clean and Clear

Your generator doesn't enjoy purified air and a blanket. It's exposed to the elements and can accumulate dust, dirt, and debris. Make sure to spend some time cleaning off your unit.

Moreover, clear at least three feet of space around the unit. No shrubs, no clutter, no curious lawn tools. You want proper airflow and zero obstructions.

Finally, pop the hood every now and then to check for signs of pests (yep, they love warm hiding spots), rust, corrosion, or loose wires. If you spot anything off, then call Mr. Electric to hire a pro.

Check the Oil and Coolant

Like your car, your generator needs oil to keep running. During extended use, it’s especially important to check the oil every 24 hours. Even if your unit hasn’t been used in a while, still check the oil and coolant levels every few months. Low levels can cause your generator to overheat or shut down when you need it most.

IMPORTANT: Use the oil and coolant type recommended by the manufacturer, and replace them according to the schedule in your generator's manual.

Change the Air Filter and Spark Plugs

Dirty air filters make your generator work harder than it ought to. Depending on use and environmental conditions, you should replace the air filter annually - or more frequently if you’re in a dusty area.

The same goes for the spark plugs: they should be checked and replaced every 1–2 years to ensure consistent ignition. You might feel comfortable doing this yourself if you're handy, but many homeowners choose to have this handled during a scheduled maintenance visit.

Watch the Battery

Batteries lose charge over time, especially in extreme heat or cold. In fact, a dead battery is one of the top reasons a generator fails to start. So, check the battery voltage regularly and replace the battery every 2–3 years. Better to be safe than powerless.

Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

Even if you’re great at DIY checks, there’s no substitute for a thorough inspection by a certified electrician. Schedule an inspection once a year to make sure your generator is ready for when you'll need it most.

If you choose Mr. Electric, you'll be hiring a uniformed and regularly-trained electrician with tools and parts to handle most electrical repair the first time around. Call Mr. Electric now. Our live representatives and dedicated electricians are ready when you are.