How to maintain your generator for optimum performance

Owning a generator provides you peace of mind and steady power during a power outage. However, you will not need to use your unit most of the time. Because of this, you can easily forget that even though you are not using it, your generator still requires upkeep. In fact, properly maintaining your generator can double the lifetime of your unit. Consequently, it is important that you educate yourself on the variety of things you can do to ensure your generator lasts and actually works when you need it to, you should also learn how to wire a generator to a breaker box so you can you can use it properly. You can also check Power Supply Plus where you’ll find tips for running a generator, how-to’s, reviews, and accessories for generators.

1. Owner’s manual

Reading your owner’s manual is the first step you can take to ensure your generator continues to perform at its optimal level. For instance, the owner’s manual provides information as to the timeline for oil changes and what type of oil to use.

In fact, even if you had your generator professionally installed and received training on how the generator works, you should still take the time to read the manual. Because the information is intended for your specific generator, you can be sure that you will operate the generator correctly. The correct operation will help ensure you enjoy the best performance your generator can deliver.

2. Fuel

A generator can run on either propane gas or natural gas. However, if your generator runs on propane, you need to make sure that your tank remains full. For instance, inclement weather, such as a blizzard, makes it difficult for propane companies to fill orders. Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on your fuel gauge and plan ahead. By planning ahead, a power outage will not cause you problems that could have been easily avoided.

3. Oil

Changing your generator’s oil regularly is one of the best things you can do to keep your unit running smoothly. For instance, depending on your unit, it is recommended that you change your generator’s oil approximately every 50 to 200 hours. The user’s manual will provide you an exact timeline.

Additionally, how often you use your generator and the environmental conditions in which it operates will also determine how frequently you need to change the oil. In fact, if your generator operates in an area that is filled with airborne particles, you need to change the oil more often because those contaminants can end up in your oil. To get tips and learn more about the importance of changing your generator’s oil, you can conduct an online search of “Generator Place Honda.”

Finally, it is recommended that you also change the oil filter during this routine maintenance.

4. Cleanliness

In addition to ensuring the oil your generator uses remain free of harmful dirt and debris, you should also keep the generator clean. The stator and rotor located in your generator work together to create the electricity you use to run your home, tools, and other machinery. Over time, these parts can become covered in contaminants that will inhibit your unit’s ability to efficiently generate electricity. Additionally, a dirty generator is more likely to experience parts that burn out faster than expected.

To ensure your generator maintains an optimal level of performance, you should clean the air filters. Additionally, it is recommended that you check the air filters on a weekly basis, regardless of how frequently you use your unit.

5. Old gas

You should never use old gas to operate your generator. In fact, it is highly recommended that you empty the fuel tank following each use. This practice ensures that you are using clean fuel that is efficient, which will protect your generator from such things as erosion.

6. Self-tests

Generators are typically only used as a backup power source during an outage, which translates into months or even years without ever starting the unit. However, this opens you up to the possibility that your generator will not start when you actually need it. To avoid this, you should start your generator on a monthly basis. This monthly routine will allow you to address any problems in advance.

In addition to ensuring your generator actually starts each month, you should make sure that the carburetor is functioning. If your generator includes a battery, you should confirm that it is fully charged.

7. Storage

A great way to protect the lifespan of your generator is to store your unit in a dry place that is cool as this type of environment will decrease the possibility of rusting. You should also empty the fuel tank as well as the fuel lines before storing the unit.

Autobiography

Jim Pulman has extensive knowledge and experience in Home Building, Construction, and Design. He writes articles in his free time and partners with content creators to share his expertise with the online community. You can reach him in his email if you have any questions – [email protected]