As a homeowner, investing in a generator is a wise decision, especially during unexpected power outages or severe storms. Even if you own a generator, however, routine maintenance is essential to ensure your system remains operational and efficient year-round. Incorporating money-saving tips for generator maintenance and upkeep can help save you money while protecting and preserving your investment for years to come.
Schedule Routine Inspections
Regular inspections of your generator help to catch issues early on, preventing costly repairs. Routine inspections can detect minor leaks, corrosion, and signs of wear before they escalate, requiring major repairs or a complete replacement of your generator.
Clean Your Generator
Keeping your generator clean and clear of dirt, debris, and dust is also essential. Use soft brushes and cloths to remove debris and dirt from the exterior of the generator, especially if it’s uncovered or freestanding in your yard.
Change the Oil Regularly
Your home’s generator requires oil changes to ensure smooth operations. Each generator comes with different manufacturer’s guides and recommendations. Reference the manual to determine when your generator’s oil needs a change. In most cases, you should change your generator’s oil every 50 to 100 hours of use (or at least once annually, depending on how frequently you use the generator).
Change the Air Filter Frequently
Replacing the air filter around every 100 hours of use (or annually) is recommended. This will prevent debris, dust, and other allergens, such as pollen, from accumulating and blocking the air filter itself. A well-maintained air filter will also prevent potential overheating issues.
Maintain Your Generator’s Battery
Inspect the battery of your generator regularly, especially if your generator has been in storage or if you haven’t used it recently. Clean and remove built-up corrosion surrounding the battery’s terminals. Ensure all connections are secure. Anytime your generator’s battery begins to show signs of wear and tear or it’s unable to hold a charge for any length of time, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Choose the Right Fuel
Using high-quality fuel is essential for any home generator you invest in. High-quality fuel will prevent rough starts, issues with the generator’s motor, or even engine knocking. Using a fuel stabilizer may be necessary if your generator is in storage for an extended period or is not in use frequently. Fuel stabilizers can prevent the fuel from degrading in your generator. Additionally, caring for the fuel in your generator is a way for you to extend the life of the generator while preserving its performance.
Maintaining your generator regularly can significantly extend its lifespan. Get in touch with Wire Works in Lansing, MI, if you need routine maintenance services for your generator.