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Fall is the best time to perform a few maintenance tasks on your home generator before the temperatures drop. With winter around the corner, you want to make sure your generator is in peak condition. You can lose power when it’s colder outside. For that reason, you should ensure that your home is powered during potential outages caused by snow storms or extreme cold so that everyone in your home stays warm.
Here are some maintenance tasks you should complete in the fall:
Perform a Thorough Inspection
You will want to give your generator a complete inspection before winter arrives. With that, you can identify any potential issues that could lead to a breakdown. First, you should inspect the generator for any signs of oil, fuel or coolant leaks. Cold weather can exacerbate existing leaks. If there is a problem, you have to take care of it immediately.
After that, look for signs of wear and tear. Hoses, belts and other components can develop cracks, frays or other signs of deterioration. Cold temperatures can make these parts very brittle, leading to failure.
Change the Oil and Filter
Frigid air can be brutal on your generator’s engine. That is why you want to make sure its oil and filter are in good condition. Take this time to change the oil and replace the filter. When you have fresh oil, your parts will have better lubrication, especially in cold temperatures. In turn, you can reduce wear and tear on the engine. Also, old oil can become thick and sludgy in the winter. When that happens, it can clog the engine. You will want to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of oil to use in the winter season. Remember that some oils are better suited for cold conditions.
Inspect the Battery
Your generator has a battery, which you need to start the generator. In the fall, you may want to perform a few tests on this part. You can use a multimeter to measure the battery’s voltage. If the charge is low, you will need to recharge the battery. Also, take a few minutes to inspect the terminals. Over time, corrosion can build up, especially during humid summer months. You can clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water to ensure a strong connection.
Before you settle in for the winter months, make sure to start the generator a few times. You have to be certain that the battery can reliably start the engine when you need it. If your battery is old or weak, you might want to consider replacing it.
Fuel System Maintenance
Along with an oil change, you also need to think about checking your fuel system. During this time, ensure your generator’s fuel tank is topped off. A full tank can reduce the risk of condensation, and any moisture can contaminate your fuel.
If you have a gasoline-powered generator, add a fuel stabilizer in the fall to prevent any degradation. Along with that, you will need to check the fuel lines for cracks, leaks or other signs of wear that could worsen when it’s cold outside. If there are any damaged parts, make sure to replace them.
Coolant System Check
If your generator is liquid-cooled, the coolant system needs to be in top condition. Cold temperatures can cause it to freeze or become less effective. When that happens, it can lead to engine overheating.
The coolant should be topped off with the correct type for winter conditions. Along with that, you need to inspect all hoses and connections for signs of wear or leaks and replace them as needed. If your coolant is old or hasn’t been replaced in a while, consider flushing the system and refilling it.
Exhaust System Inspection
After the summer, your exhaust system can become blocked or damaged due to the accumulation of fallen leaves, debris and dirt. This can lead to a dangerous situation. A blocked exhaust may cause a dangerous carbon monoxide buildup and reduce generator performance.
You will want to check the exhaust outlets for leaves, twigs and other debris. Keep the area around the exhaust clear for proper ventilation. Also, inspect the exhaust pipes for cracks, holes or other signs of wear. If they are damaged, replace those components. You may also want to run the generator and listen for any unusual sounds or excessive noise. Rattling or banging could indicate an exhaust system issue.
Inspect and Replace Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are important to your generator’s operation. Worn or dirty components can lead to poor engine performance, difficulty starting or even engine misfires. You need to inspect the spark plugs for any signs of wear or buildup. If dirty or damaged, replace them according to the manufacturer’s specifications. With this simple step, you can count on a reliable startup during the winter months.
Air Filter Maintenance
Another part that can become clogged with dust, dirt and debris is the generator’s air filter. You should check it for any clogs or signs of dirt. If it looks bad, make sure to replace it with a new one. When you do that, you will ensure optimal airflow and engine performance throughout the fall and winter.
With the leaves falling, they can be sucked into the air intake. Keep the area around your generator clean to prevent clogging. A clean air filter will help your generator run more efficiently and reduce the risk of engine damage.
Test the Generator Under Load
After completing the basic maintenance tasks, you will want to test your generator under load conditions. To do this, you must run the generator while it powers your home. By doing this, you can ensure that the generator can handle the demands of your household during a power outage. Testing under load helps you identify any potential issues with the generator’s performance before you need it in an emergency.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
While basic maintenance tasks can be handled by yourself, you may want to call a professional to take care of the rest. A certified technician can perform in-depth inspections and address any issues that may not be apparent during routine maintenance.
Fall is an ideal time to schedule your generator’s annual service. A professional technician can perform valve adjustments, alternator inspections and other skilled tasks.
Also, if you’ve noticed any performance issues, such as difficulty starting, fluctuations in power output or unusual noises, a professional inspection can identify and resolve these problems.
Plus, professional maintenance provides peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing that your generator is thoroughly inspected and ready for the cold. These maintenance visits are important to keep your generator in optimal condition year-round. You can take advantage of our MVP Maintenance Membership for discounts on electrical services.
At MVP Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric, we offer professional services for home generators to make sure your system is always ready when you need it most in Kansas City. We can help with maintenance, repairs and even installations for your electrical and HVAC systems. Additionally, we can enhance indoor air quality with air purifiers and humidifiers. Plus, we offer smart home-automation services that can be integrated into your home. Whether you need reliable electrical work, HVAC services or advanced home automation, contact us today to schedule your next appointment.
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