To keep your generator working well, you need to take care of it. Change the oil often to help the engine run better. Follow what the maker of your generator says.
Clean the air filter so the engine can ‘breathe’ properly and avoid problems. Run the generator sometimes with a load to keep it lubricated and to find any issues early. Keep the outside of the generator clean, but be gentle, so you don’t block airflow or break anything.
When you store the generator, put it in a dry place with good airflow and cover it to keep out dust. Before you store it, empty the fuel tank and take out the battery to stop rust and other problems. Learn more by reading our guide below.
Change the Oil
Changing the oil in your generator is important. It helps your unit work well and last longer. Engine oil lubricates the parts, so they move smoothly and cools the engine to stop it from getting too hot.
Over time, oil gets dirty with dust and metal bits, which can make the engine not work as well and wear out faster.
To keep your generator in good shape, change the oil as the manufacturer says, usually every 50 to 100 hours of use or at least once a year. Before you start, ensure it is on a flat surface and not hot, so you don’t get burned. Use the right type of oil and oil level as mentioned in the manual to keep the warranty safe and the unit working right.
To change the oil, drain the old oil out, change the oil filter if there is one, and put in new oil. Ensure to get rid of the old oil properly to protect the environment.
Regular oil changes make your generator more dependable, help you avoid expensive repairs, and stop it from breaking down. Doing this simple task helps your generator stay strong and efficient.
Clean the Air Filter
Keeping the air filter clean is important for good airflow and to stop dirt from getting into the engine. This helps the generator work well and stay safe. If the air filter gets clogged, it can make the unit use more fuel and cause problems. Checking and cleaning the air filter often helps the generator run smoothly.
To clean the air filter, look at the manual for the right steps. Turn off the unit and let it cool so you don’t get hurt. Take off the air filter cover and carefully take out the dirty filter. If it is a foam air filter, wash it with warm soapy water, rinse it well, and let it dry completely before putting it back. If it is a paper filter, gently tap it to get rid of dirt or replace it if it’s too dirty.
Check the air filter compartment for any dirt or damage and clean it with a soft cloth if needed. Put the filter back in place securely to stop air leaks.
Doing these steps helps the generator last longer and work safely, preventing unexpected problems.
Also Read: Diesel Generator buying guide
Run It Periodically
To keep your generator working well and reliably, you should run it now and then with a load. This helps the engine stay lubricated, stopping parts like seals and gaskets from drying out. It also helps find problems before they become big issues. Running the generator with a load makes sure it creates electricity like it’s supposed to, and all its parts work right. It also charges the battery and keeps the fuel system in good shape, stopping fuel from going bad and moisture from building up.
When doing this, follow safety rules carefully. Put the generator in a place with lots of fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide. Check fuel lines for leaks before turning it on. It is a good idea to run the generator for at least 30 minutes every month but check what the maker says. While it is running, listen for strange sounds or watch for shaking that might mean something’s wrong.
Inspect Wirings and Batteries Regularly
Check the generator’s wires and batteries often to keep it working well and avoid electrical problems. Look at all the wires you can see for damage, like wear, tearing, or rust. If the wire coverings are damaged or wires are showing, it can cause short circuits or fires.
Use a multimeter to ensure the wires are connected properly and electricity can flow through them. Tighten any loose connections because the generator’s movement can make them come loose over time.
The battery is very important for starting the generator. Make sure the battery terminals are clean and not rusty. You can clean rusty terminals with a mix of baking soda and water, then rinse and dry them well.
Use a voltmeter to check the battery’s voltage and make sure it’s within the right range given by the maker. A weak or broken battery can make it hard for it to start, especially in emergencies.
Keep It Clean
Keeping your generator clean is important for how well it works and how long it lasts. Dirt and junk can block airflow, making it hot and causing it to break. Cleaning it often keeps it working well and safe from fires. When you clean your unit, do it carefully to avoid breaking any parts.
- Cleaning the Outside: Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe off dirt and dust from the outside. Don’t use strong water sprays because water can get inside and cause rust or electrical problems.
- Taking Care of the Air Filter: The air filter stops dust from getting into the engine. Check and clean it often and change it if needed. A dirty air filter can stop air from getting through, making the engine work harder and get too hot.
- Checking the Cooling Vents: Make sure cooling vents are not blocked. Blocked vents can make the unit too hot and not work right. Use a vacuum with a soft brush to gently clean these parts.
Also Read: Safety tips while using portable generators.
Store It Properly
To keep your generator working well and lasting a long time, you need to store it the right way. This helps stop problems from things like moisture, dust, and rust. Choose a place that is clean, dry, and has good airflow conditions. This helps keep water from building up, which can cause rust and electrical problems. Use a special cover for generators to keep out dust and dirt, but make sure air can still get in.
- Empty the Fuel Tank: Run the generator until there is no fuel left. This stops the fuel from going bad and forming sticky stuff inside.
- Take Out the Battery: Remove the battery and store it somewhere else. This helps avoid electrical problems and makes the battery last longer.
- Clean and Check: Clean all parts of the generator and look for any wear or damage. This helps find and fix problems early.
Following these steps makes sure the generator is safe and ready to use later.
Write down when you stored it and what you did to take care of it. This helps keep track of its maintenance and when it needs to be checked again.
Storing your generator the right way helps it work well when you need it the most.
Annual Professional Check
Scheduling a yearly routine maintenance for your generator is important to ensure it works well and safely. Experts can find problems that you might not see in regular annual checks. Certified technicians know how to look at complicated systems. They check things like the alternator, fuel, and cooling systems to ensure they are working properly. Their skills help them spot early signs of wear and tear or problems that could lead to big repairs or failures.
During this routine check, experts usually do a load bank test. This test makes sure the generator gives enough power in real-life situations. They also check and set the right voltage and frequency to keep the electrical systems safe.
Technicians will also look at the exhaust system to see if there are any leaks or blockages that could be dangerous. They check the battery to make sure it’s in good shape and replace it if needed.
Having professionals check your generator every year can make it last longer and give you peace of mind that it will work when you need it most.
Author Bio: Jake Jackson is the co-founder of Juniper Mountain Electric, a family-run business providing high-quality electrical services since 2011. Growing up without electricity or running water, Jake understands firsthand the impact that reliable power can have on daily life. His passion for safe, high-quality electrical work drives his commitment to helping homeowners and businesses find cost-effective solutions they can trust. Under his leadership, Juniper Mountain Electric has built a reputation for exceptional service, ensuring every client feels valued and cared for.