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Imagine there’s a typical summer thunderstorm in Houston, and the power goes out. Yet again. You don’t even bat an eye because you know you have a whole-house standby generator just waiting for a moment like this to fire up and keep your home powered. Except it never starts. Instead, your generator sits, cranking the engine repeatedly in the hope that a spark will catch and everything will be fine.
Then you realize that you’ve never had any maintenance service performed on your generator that you’ve had for at least a couple of years. Chances are you’re not getting it to fire up until you get that maintenance service done, so grab a candle, use whatever battery life you have left on your tablet, and learn something from this blog!
Why Should I Maintain My Whole-House Standby Generator?
Regular maintenance of your whole-house standby generator ensures its reliability and longevity.
Avoid Costly Repairs
Maintenance helps identify and address any potential issues before they escalate, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns during power outages. This proactive approach can save you from costly repairs and inconveniences in the long run.
Maximize Efficiency
A well-maintained generator operates more efficiently, which can lead to cost savings by ensuring it consumes fuel more economically. Moreover, regular maintenance helps maintain the generator’s optimal performance, ensuring it can seamlessly provide backup power, keeping your home comfortable and secure during blackouts.
Ensure Safety
Maintaining your whole-house standby generator is essential for safety reasons. Over time, wear and tear on various components can compromise the generator’s safety features. Routine maintenance includes inspecting safety systems and ensuring they function correctly, reducing the risk of accidents or hazards.
Ultimately, regular maintenance protects your generator and offers you peace of mind, knowing it will perform reliably during power outages, keeping your home and family safe and comfortable.
What Kind of Maintenance Does a Standby Generator Need?
Standby generators require regular maintenance to ensure their optimal performance and longevity. A comprehensive maintenance regimen typically includes several essential tasks.
Air Filters Inspection
First, air filters must be inspected and cleaned or replaced as necessary. Clean air filters ensure the generator’s engine receives adequate airflow, preventing overheating and maintaining efficiency.
Oil Changes
Oil changes are another critical aspect of maintenance. Regularly changing the oil helps keep the engine lubricated, reducing wear and tear on vital components. It’s essential to use the manufacturer-recommended oil type and adhere to the specified change intervals.
Battery Maintenance
Battery maintenance is crucial for ensuring that the generator starts reliably when needed. During maintenance, the battery should be inspected for corrosion, cleaned, and tested to confirm it’s holding a charge. Connections should be tightened, and if the battery shows signs of wear or insufficient performance, it should be replaced promptly.
Coolant Level
Routine maintenance also involves checking the generator’s coolant level and ensuring it has the appropriate antifreeze concentration to prevent freezing in colder temperatures.
Other Components
A thorough inspection of the unit’s wiring, belts, hoses, and other components is essential to detect any signs of wear or damage that may require repair or replacement.
How Long Can My Generator Sit Without Being Used?
The length of time your generator can sit without being mainly used depends on several factors, including the type of generator, its age, and the environmental conditions in which it is stored. Generally, standby generators, designed for prolonged periods of inactivity, can sit for extended periods without being used. Thanks to their robust construction and components, these generators are built to withstand long periods without operation.
However, even standby generators can benefit from periodic use and maintenance. Extended periods of inactivity can lead to issues such as fuel degradation, lubrication problems, and battery deterioration.
Running your generator for a short period, at least once a month or as the manufacturer recommends, is advisable to mitigate these issues. Regular testing ensures the generator remains in working order, allowing you to detect and address potential problems before they become more significant.
Additionally, conducting routine maintenance checks during these test runs can help keep your generator in peak condition and ready for action during a power outage.
So, while standby generators can sit for a while without use,it’s a good practice to incorporate regular tests and maintenance into your generator care routine to ensure reliable performance when needed.
What is Going to Be Checked During a Generator Maintenance Service?
A comprehensive maintenance service for a whole-house standby generator should cover various aspects to ensure the unit’s optimal performance and reliability during power outages. Here’s a detailed checklist of items typically involved in such maintenance:
1. Visual Inspection
Check for any visible signs of damage, corrosion, or wear on the generator and its components. Ensure the unit is clean and free from debris or obstructions.
2. Battery Inspection and Testing
Inspect the battery for corrosion and proper connection. Test the battery’s voltage and capacity to ensure it can start the generator.
3. Fuel System Check
Examine the fuel lines, connections, and filters for leaks or damage. Verify the fuel supply and pressure to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications.
4. Oil System Maintenance
Check the oil level and quality, topping or replacing it as needed. Replace the oil filter. Inspect the oil lines for leaks or blockages.
5. Air System Inspection
Clean or replace the air filter to ensure proper airflow. Inspect the air intake and exhaust systems for obstructions.
6. Cooling System Inspection
Check the coolant level and quality, topping it up or replacing it as required. Inspect hoses and connections for leaks. Clean the radiator or heat exchanger.
7. Control Panel and Wiring
Inspect the control panel for any loose connections or visible damage. Ensure all wiring and connections are secure and undamaged. Test the control panel functions, including exercise and fault indicator lights.
8. Load Bank Test
Perform a load bank test to confirm the generator can handle its rated capacity.
9. Transfer Switch Inspection
Inspect the automatic transfer switch (ATS) for proper operation and cleanliness. Check ATS connections and wiring.
10. Exercise the Generator
Run the generator for a specified duration to ensure it starts and runs smoothly. Monitor the generator’s performance during the exercise cycle.
11. Voltage and Frequency Verification
Check the generator’s output voltage and frequency to meet the required standards.
12. Control System and Software Updates
Ensure the generator’s control system and software are up-to-date. Install any available firmware or software updates as needed.
13. Documentation
Maintain detailed maintenance service records, including replacements, repairs, or adjustments. Record the generator’s running hours for future reference.
14. Load Test
Perform a load test to verify the generator’s capacity under actual load conditions.
15. Fuel Quality Maintenance
Ensure the stored fuel remains clean and free from contamination.
16. Confirm Environmental Compliance
Verify that the generator complies with environmental regulations, including emissions standards.
17. Safety Checks
Confirm that safety mechanisms like emergency shut-off switches are in working order.
18. Recommendations and Repairs
Provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades. Discuss any potential issues or areas of concern with the generator owner.
19. Emergency Stop Test
Verify that the emergency stop function operates correctly.
20. Final Verification
Conduct a final verification of all components, systems, and settings.
Remember that generator maintenance should be performed by a qualified technician familiar with the generator’s specific make and model. Regular maintenance ensures the generator’s reliability and longevity, allowing it to provide backup power when needed.
How Often Should My Standby Generator Be Maintained?
A typical maintenance service for a standby generator should be performed at least twice a year, ideally before the start of the hurricane season and after its conclusion. During each service, a trained technician will follow a checklist to perform these tasks, ensuring your generator remains in peak operating condition.
Regular maintenance safeguards your investment and provides peace of mind, knowing your generator is ready to provide backup power.
Why Pick Nick’s to Perform My Regular Generator Maintenance Service?
Nick’s Generators has been the trusted choice for maintaining and ensuring the readiness of standby generators in Houston for over 45 years. Our highly trained technicians specialize in all aspects of generator maintenance, from routine checks to in-depth servicing. We understand the critical importance of having a reliable backup power source during emergencies, so we go the extra mile to keep your generator in peak condition.
With our commitment to quality, backed by countless 5-star reviews, you can trust Nick’s Generators to ensure your generator is always prepared to provide the backup power your home needs when it matters most.
Choose Nick’s Today. We’re on the Way!