Generators are a vital backup for Lakeland homeowners, especially during unpredictable weather conditions. Keeping your generator in top condition not only ensures it works when you need it most but also saves you from expensive repairs. In this blog post, we’ll walk through essential maintenance tips that will help extend the lifespan of your generator and keep it running efficiently.
Why Generator Maintenance Matters
Your generator is an investment that requires routine care to deliver reliable performance. Without regular maintenance, generators can lose efficiency, costing more in fuel and potentially leading to costly repairs. For Lakeland homeowners, where storm seasons can hit hard, ensuring your generator is in optimal shape is essential.
Prevent Costly Breakdowns
One of the key reasons for maintaining your generator is to prevent unexpected breakdowns. Imagine needing power during an emergency only to find that your generator won’t start. Proper upkeep minimizes this risk, saving you the hassle and expense of emergency repairs or replacements.
Prolong the Life of Your Generator
Like any other piece of machinery, generators have a lifespan. However, with consistent maintenance, that lifespan can be significantly extended. Homeowners in Lakeland can maximize the return on their investment by simply following a few easy tips.
Routine Maintenance Tasks for Generators
Knowing what needs to be done to maintain a generator is half the battle. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tasks:
1. Change the Oil Regularly
Just like with a car, your generator’s engine needs fresh oil to run smoothly. Old, dirty oil can cause wear and tear on the internal parts of the engine, leading to inefficiencies or even damage over time.
- How often? Every 50-60 hours of use or annually, whichever comes first.
- What oil to use? Always refer to your generator’s manual for the recommended type of oil. Using the wrong oil could cause damage and affect your generator’s performance.
2. Check the Air Filter
Air filters ensure that dirt and debris don’t enter your generator’s engine. Over time, these filters can get clogged, restricting airflow and making the engine work harder than necessary.
- How often? Inspect the air filter every three months or after prolonged use.
- When to replace? If the air filter looks excessively dirty, it’s time for a replacement. Clogged filters decrease efficiency and can even cause your generator to overheat.
3. Test the Battery
The battery is essential for starting your generator, but it can lose charge or corrode over time. Regularly testing the battery ensures it’s ready when needed.
- How often? Check the battery at least twice a year.
- What to look for? Inspect for corrosion around the terminals and ensure the battery is fully charged. Clean any corrosion with a mixture of baking soda and water.
4. Run the Generator Periodically
Generators, especially those that aren’t used frequently, should be run periodically to keep all components lubricated and functional.
- How often? Run your generator for 15-20 minutes every month.
- Why? Regular exercise prevents internal components from becoming stiff and ensures that everything is functioning properly when you need it.
5. Check the Coolant Levels
For liquid-cooled generators, keeping the coolant at the proper level is essential. Without enough coolant, your generator can overheat, leading to damage or total failure.
- How often? Check coolant levels every month or before storm seasons.
- What type of coolant? Use the type of coolant specified in your generator’s manual to ensure optimal performance.
Seasonal Maintenance for Lakeland Homeowners
Living in Lakeland means dealing with extreme weather conditions at times, so it’s important to have a seasonal maintenance checklist to ensure your generator can handle the load during peak seasons.
Pre-Storm Preparation
Before the storm season kicks in, Lakeland homeowners should:
- Test the generator to ensure it starts quickly.
- Ensure the fuel tank is full and check fuel lines for any leaks or cracks.
- Inspect all electrical connections and cords for wear and tear.
Post-Storm Checkup
After heavy use or a major storm:
- Clean the generator, removing any debris, mud, or dirt.
- Replace the fuel if it’s been sitting for too long, as old fuel can cause starting issues.
- Check the oil levels and top off if necessary.
When to Call a Professional
While many maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, some require the expertise of a generator maintenance professional. For example:
- If you notice any strange noises or smells coming from the generator during operation.
- If the generator fails to start despite having good fuel and oil levels.
- When there is visible damage to key components such as the engine or alternator.
Call Us Today!
Regular generator maintenance is essential for ensuring the long-term performance of your backup power system. By following these tips, Lakeland, FL homeowners can avoid costly breakdowns, extend the life of their generators, and save money in the long run.
If you need assistance with any of the tasks mentioned above, or if your generator requires professional servicing, Wheeler Generators is here to help. Our experienced team is ready to keep your generator in top shape, so you’re never left in the dark.
Call Wheeler Generators today at 407-437-9324 to schedule your maintenance checkup or to learn more about our comprehensive generator services!
