To ensure your home standby generator is always ready when needed, regular maintenance is not optional, rather a necessity for its longevity and efficiency .
Whether it’s a jet engine, car engine or the engine of your home standby generator, each requires regular maintenance and professional servicing for the engine to be safe and perform reliably. Jet engines, which endure extreme conditions, require detailed inspections and maintenance after every 300–500 flight hours. Car engines typically need oil changes every 3,000–7,500 miles and comprehensive service at longer intervals. A home standby generator is no different, being an engine, it demands regular care and professional servicing to avoid failure at critical moments.
We have put a practical list together for you to keep your home standby generator in the best condition, so it is always ready to power up your home.
- Visual Inspection
Inspect your generator for any physical damage that could be cracks, corrosion or signs of wear and tear. Ensure all wires and connections are secure. Keep an eye out for any leaks or obstructions that could hinder exhaust flow.
- Check the Fluid Levels
•Oil Check:
Verify oil levels and top off if necessary.
Inspect for discoloration or contamination (indicating the need for an oil change).
•Coolant Levels (for Liquid-Cooled Generators):
Ensure the coolant reservoir is adequately filled.
Inspect for leaks in hoses or the radiator system.
•Fuel Levels:
Check the fuel tank for sufficient levels and quality (especially for diesel or gasoline generators).
- Replace Filters Periodically
Air and fuel filters must be maintained and replaced, if need be, on a regular basis to ensure your generator is running efficiently. Be sure to use filters the manufacturer recommends for your specific generator model.
- Inspect the Battery
The battery of the generator has a critical role in starting the system therefore checks regularly for terminal corrosion and makes sure it is fully charged. Generally speaking, batteries should be replaced every 2-3 years.
- Spark plugs
If spark plugs show signs of wear and tear, corrosion and damage, these will need to be replaced. Usually after 100-200 hours of use, spark plugs must be replaced.
- Test the Transfer Switch
The transfer switch is the essence of your generator system, it is important to test the switch regularly to ensure it is working correctly.
- Load Stress Test
It is a good idea to stimulate a full load test on your generator to see if it can handle the capacity. During the load stress test, monitor voltage, capacity, frequency and fuel consumption to ensure effective performance.
- Lubrication
Lubricate all moving parts such as the hinges, bearings and other moving parts to prevent wear and tear and to ensure smooth operating of your generator.
- Exercise the Generator Weekly
To prevent components from degrading, the generator must run for a short time period each week. During this exercise cycle, you can check for any sounds that seem unusual.
- Keep the System Clean
Dust, debris, or buildup can cause your generator to not operate optimally. It is important to clean the external casing regularly, as well as the area surrounding the generator, so nothing is blocking the cooling system.
- Inspect the Coolant System
To ensure the generator does not overheat, you must check the liquid cooling system by checking the coolant levels and ensuring the radiator is free from obstruction.
- Inspect the Electrical System
Schedule Annual Professional Generator Maintenance
The homeowner should do basic upkeep. However, an annual inspection by a certified technician is important. This annual maintenance includes:
• Checking and tightening electrical connections.
• Testing the fuel system for leaks or blockages.
• Adjusting valve clearances (if applicable).
• Ensuring compliance with warranty requirements.
- Inspect Fuel System
Ensure you are using the correct fuel and good quality fuel in your generator system to avoid any damage being caused. Also check fuel lines, filters and injectors of any leaks or blockages.
- Update Firmware or Software (if applicable)
If you have a modern generator, with WiFi, you may need to update the software on a regular basis to ensure the generator is still compatible with the rest of the system. Some modern generators, like those equipped with Wi-Fi monitoring, may require.
Also keep an eye out on the control panel to make sure the proper display of information is visible.
- Weatherproof Enclosure
Inspect your generators enclosure for rust, corrosion or other damage that could compromise its resistance to elements such as bad weather. You want to ensure all seals and gaskets are secure to prevent water/moisture from getting in.
- Run Time Test
Perform a short “run time test” where you let your generator run for a short period of time to confirm it starts and runs smoothly. During the run time test, listen for any abnormal noises, vibrations and performance issues you notice.
By doing your maintenance checks, you can rest assured your generator is ready for anything. Your generator will prove to be a reliable and a long last source of power.
Contact us today to schedule your generator service!
