Electrican,Cook Electric
Written by Larry Cook

How to Properly Maintain Your Emergency Standby Generator

An emergency standby generator is one of the most important purchases you can make for your house. Whenever there is a power outage caused by severe weather or a utility problem, your family can still get the electricity needed for living essentials and safety.

A standby generator lets you can stay warm or cool, stay safe while moving inside or outside with lighting, keep lines of communication open, cook and keep food preserved, and maintain the security devices like motion control lighting.

If they are regularly serviced and well maintained, standby generators can be expected to stay functional for at least 20 years. However, owners often neglect to carry out routine maintenance, voiding the precious manufacturer’s warranty.

The following is not a complete maintenance checklist, so get the advice of an experienced licensed electrician to keep your generator running.

Creating a Maintenance Plan

Start by reviewing the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Preventative maintenance schedules are typically based on the number of hours used and time periods.

A generator used often will need frequent servicing. Conversely, one hardly used will need less maintenance. Environmental factors such as heat, humidity, dust, and extremely cold conditions should be considered, and a generator subjected to harsh elements may require special servicing.

Checklist for Whole Year

Weekly – A standby generator should be programmed to run automatically once a week to make sure it is properly operating and fluid leaks are not occurring.

Monthly – When the engine is cool, the battery charger and fluid levels should be checked. The homeowner should ensure the area surrounding the generator is tidy and cleared of debris.

6 Months – The enclosure should be checked, battery tested, and air filter, belts, connectors, exhaust system, hoses, and lines should be inspected by a qualified professional trained to maintain the generator brand.

Annual – A qualified professional trained to maintain the generator brand should inspect electrical connections, flush the cooling system, and replace fluids and filters. The technician should also carry out load bank testing. Fuel reconditioning should also be performed as needed.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.