When storm season approaches here in Atoka, TN, it often brings periodic power outages with it. For this reason, many homeowners have whole-home generators to use in case of an emergency. However, the last thing you want is to find out your generator isn’t working when you need it most. To avoid that, here are the steps you should take to prepare your generator for storm season.
Check Your Generator’s Fuel and Fuel System
If you own a portable generator, it’s essential to check its fuel supply before using it. For starters, check your fuel tank for signs of sediment buildup or water intrusion. Either can cause your generator to run poorly or even stop running abruptly. The fastest way to check your fuel is to siphon some into a clear container. Look for unusual cloudiness or particles floating in it. If you see either, you need to replace the fuel and have your fuel tank repaired.
If you have a propane-powered generator, you should check the level of its fuel storage tank. It’s a good idea to have your fuel tank refilled in advance of storm season. If you wait until a storm hits, you may run out of fuel while waiting for a refill. If your generator runs on natural gas, inspect its supply lines for any signs of wear or damage.
Perform an Oil Change and Oil Filter Replacement
Regardless of the type of generator you own, it requires periodic oil changes and replacement of its oil filter. Doing so ensures that you minimize wear and tear while your generator is running. It also prevents your generator from overheating. You should purchase a compatible replacement oil filter and oil, as specified in your generator’s owner’s manual.
You should also find your generator’s oil change procedure detailed in its manual. Most generators require oil changes after every 100 to 200 hours of operation. Even if you didn’t use your generator during the previous year, an oil change is still worthwhile.
Inspect Your Generator’s Air Filter
Your generator’s air filter is also worth paying some attention to during your pre-storm-season checks. Air filters prevent dirt from entering the engine of your generator. However, if you let them get too dirty, they’ll starve your generator of the air it needs for proper combustion. For that reason, it’s a good idea to inspect your generator’s air filter before storm season arrives. If it appears dirty or you haven’t changed it recently, it’s best to replace it.
Check Your Generator’s Battery
You must also check your generator’s battery to see if it remains in good condition. Look for corrosion on its terminals or any signs of bulging. If you spot anything amiss, you may need a battery replacement. If you have a multimeter, you can check the battery’s voltage to ensure it’s still holding an appropriate charge. Otherwise, you’ll find out that you need a new battery when you try to start your generator and nothing happens.
Perform a Test Run
Finally, with the basics taken care of, start your generator to ensure it runs smoothly. It’s important to let your generator run for at least 30 minutes under a moderate load. That’s long enough for it to reach its typical running temperature. It’s also long enough to let you know if your generator has any obvious problems or requires repair. If everything checks out, you can turn off your generator, and you only have one more thing left to do.
Schedule a Professional Service Visit
Although you can handle much of your generator’s regular upkeep on your own, there are some things you can’t do. For example, it is not easy to inspect and service your generator’s electrical components. You also can’t perform a deep cleaning to ensure optimal operation and continued reliability.
If you own a Generac or Honeywell generator, you certainly can’t check and update its firmware yourself. That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule your annual professional generator maintenance appointment before the storm season arrives. Our highly trained experts can help ensure your generator’s ready for whatever the weather has to throw at it.
For over a decade, Infinity Heating and Air Conditioning has been the go-to provider of generator services in Atoka and throughout the region. We’re Generac and Honeywell certified, so we sell and install only the finest home generators. Additionally, our technicians possess the training and experience to service generators of all types. Their excellence is part of the reason we’re Better Business Bureau accredited with an A+ rating.
It’s also why we have so many positive reviews from local homeowners. If you need generator services in Atoka, call Infinity today!
