Benefits of Generator Maintenance During Storm Season
Storm season can be a challenging time for both homeowners and businesses. Heavy rainfall, high winds, and lightning strikes can cause power outages, floods, and damage to homes and infrastructure. For those who rely on generators for backup power, it’s important to ensure that these devices are well-maintained before or during storm season. In this blog post, we’ll explore why it’s a good time to do generator maintenance and provide some tips on how to get started.
Why is Regular Generator Maintenance Important?
It’s essential to recognize that regular generator maintenance is crucial to ensure that the device operates efficiently and reliably. Generators are typically used for backup power during emergencies and power outages. As such, they may not see regular use for extended periods of time, and components can wear out or become damaged over time. Regular generator maintenance can help prevent breakdowns during critical times and keep the generator in good working order.
Benefits of Performing Generator Maintenance During Storm Season
First, the increased likelihood of power outages during storms means that homeowners and businesses may be relying on their generators more frequently. It’s essential to ensure that your generator is in good working order and can operate reliably when needed. Performing maintenance before or during storm season can help prevent generator failure when it’s needed most.
Next, storm season can be a quieter time for businesses, particularly those in sectors that are more vulnerable to weather-related disruptions. For example, construction, landscaping, and outdoor recreation businesses may experience reduced demand during storm season. This period may be the ideal time to perform generator maintenance without disrupting regular business operations. For homeowners, storm season may coincide with quieter periods in the household, such as the back-to-school period or summer vacation. These quieter periods provide an excellent opportunity to perform maintenance and ensure that the generator is ready for use during the busier periods.
Another benefit of performing generator maintenance during storm season is that it can help identify any potential issues before a storm hits. For example, if a generator has a faulty battery, it may fail to start during a power outage, leaving homeowners or businesses without backup power. Identifying and fixing these issues before a storm can help ensure that the generator is ready to go when it’s needed.
Generator Maintenance Tips
So, what should homeowners and businesses do to perform generator maintenance before or during storm season? Here are some essential maintenance tips:
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions – Every generator is different, so it’s essential to read the manufacturer’s instructions before performing any maintenance. This will provide guidance on what maintenance tasks are necessary, how often they should be performed, and any safety precautions that should be taken.
- Check the oil – Like any engine, a generator requires oil to run smoothly. Check the oil level regularly and top it off as necessary. It’s also important to change the oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Inspect the air filter – A dirty air filter can reduce the efficiency of a generator and cause it to run less reliably. Check the air filter regularly and replace it if it’s dirty.
- Test the battery – The battery is essential for starting a generator, so it’s important to ensure that it’s in good working order. Test the battery regularly and replace it if it’s faulty.
- Check for leaks – Fuel and oil leaks can be hazardous, so it’s important to check for leaks regularly. If you notice any leaks, address them immediately.
- Run the generator – Running the generator regularly can help keep it in good working order. It also provides an opportunity to identify any potential issues before a storm hits. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for starting and running the generator.
How Should I Store My Generator?
In addition to performing regular maintenance, it’s also important to ensure that the generator is stored safely and securely. Generators should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area away from flammable materials. It’s also important to ensure that the generator is grounded correctly to prevent electrical shocks or fires. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storing the generator, and if in doubt, consult a professional.
Finally, it’s important to remember that generators are not a substitute for proper emergency planning. While generators can provide backup power during a power outage, they should not be relied upon as the sole source of power during an emergency. It’s important to have an emergency plan in place that includes backup power sources, such as a generator, but also includes other essentials such as food, water, and medical supplies. Be prepared for emergencies and know what to do in case of a power outage or other weather-related event.
