Many homeowners introduce backup generators to their property as an extra layer of security. These devices ensure an uninterrupted power supply after an unexpected outage. Aside from being a convenient solution, backup (or “standby”) generators can also help protect your bottom line, especially if you conduct business from home.
Staying on top of the recommended upkeep is a must for ensuring the device’s lengthy shelf life and efficient long-term operation. We’ll review the key maintenance requirements for owning a backup home generator and how to visually inspect the solution for possible defects.
Conducting Regular Inspections
Inspecting your backup generator routinely is the best approach for keeping it in top condition and avoiding expensive repairs. Regular visual checks of the unit will also alert you to developing issues that need professional intervention.
Here’s what you should keep an eye out for as you look over your backup generator:
Signs of Physical Damage
Scan the unit for any indications of damage. This could include dents and missing or dislodged exterior components. We recommend you also check all the device’s cables for fraying or exposed wiring and loose connections.
The Presence of Corrosion
As you inspect the generator’s various components, hone in on all its metal surfaces, looking for traces of rust and corrosion. Rust can quickly become a concerning maintenance issue. This is especially the case in coastal regions like ours here in Houston.
Check all Fluid Levels
Have a look at the generator’s coolant, oil, and fuel levels to confirm they match the manufacturer’s specifications. You can typically access the dipstick by removing the front panel on the generator’s external housing.
Inspect for Worn Components
Finally check your belts, seals, and hoses for signs of wear and tear. If you’re unsure what a worn component looks like, our team at Mackey Services can assist with a comprehensive check and replace any failing components at your property.
Required Oil and Filter Changes
To preserve your backup generator and keep it in good condition, you‘ll need to follow all the recommended oil and filter change intervals. Most manufacturers suggest changing them once every one to two years or between 100 and 200 hours of use.
Remember to check your device’s user manual to confirm the precise time frame between changes, however. Like your car, changing the generators oil and filter regularly prevents contaminants from building up in your system and degrading the engine’s internal components.
When we perform oil changes during a maintenance appointment, we start by running the generator for a few minutes to warm up the oil. Slightly heating allows it to drain more thoroughly. Next, we remove the drain plug and let the used oil drop into a pan. We’ll then replace the oil filter with a fresh one before reinstalling the drain plug. Finally, we replenish the oil according to the manufacturer’s specs.
Battery Maintenance
During our routine maintenance appointments, our technicians will inspect your generator for various common battery issues, including corrosion and discharge. We recommend performing battery checks at least twice a year to ensure your generator will start when needed.
When we perform maintenance inspections on backup generators, we clean the battery terminals to remove corrosion buildup that can prevent a strong electrical connection. We also test the battery’s charge to confirm it can deliver adequate power levels.
Coolant System Maintenance
Inspecting a generator’s coolant system entails a thorough examination of the unit to ensure that it works. If the cooling system is faulty, this could lead to overheating before damaging the device’s motor. Our technicians start by inspecting the quality of the coolant before topping the fluid off with the appropriate mixture.
Most systems recommend that you change the coolant out every two years. However, always remember to consult the generator’s user manual for the product’s specific recommendations. Replacing the coolant involves a draining and flushing procedure before refilling it with fresh fluid.
Air Filter Replacement
When we conduct scheduled backup generator maintenance inspections, we also change out your air filter to prevent damage to the device’s motor. The system’s air filter keeps dirt, dust, and other debris out of your engine to keep it performing optimally.
We recommend changing air filters every 100 hours of use or as recommended by the manufacturer. During the appointment, our technicians also inspect the generator’s air intake for blockages before installing a new one to ensure clean airflow.
Fuel System Checks
Fuel system inspections are crucial for preserving your generator and keeping it in top running condition. These devices require clean fuel to operate dependably and efficiently. With this in mind, we always examine the fuel lines for signs of cracks or leaks that could compromise the fuel system’s performance.
Our technicians will also verify the last time you added new fuel and determine if it should be siphoned and replaced. If needed, we’ll take measures to prevent water from contaminating the fuel tank, which can degrade fuel quality and harm engine components.
Exhaust System Inspection
A healthy exhaust system is also essential for reliable backup generator performance. When we inspect the units, we ensure the exhaust area is free of blockages that could lead to harmful buildup. Our specialists also check the entire exhaust system for leaks or damage along the generator’s exhaust lines.
An exhaust inspection helps avoid performance deficiencies and potentially harmful emissions. Ensuring a well-functioning exhaust system also prevents excessive carbon accumulation.
Generator Startup Checks
Routinely operating a backup generator, even when there are no outages, is another crucial aspect of sound maintenance. Just like any engine-powered device, you want to avoid letting it sit too long between operation sessions. This can make starting the motor difficult.
Running the engine routinely will lubricate its internal components and prevent the fuel from spoiling. As you operate it periodically, you can also take the opportunity to inspect the unit and verify that everything is in good working order. This will help ensure the device is ready for emergency use.
Scheduling Professional Maintenance Services
Hiring a professional to conduct an annual checkup is an excellent strategy for keeping backup generators in top working condition. Apart from the checks described above, our comprehensive backup generator maintenance services include load-bank testing that can simulate full-load conditions to confirm the unit can operate under stress.
If necessary, we can identify and replace any worn-out parts onsite during the maintenance inspection. We’ll also advise of any potential faults and other issues to be on the lookout for that could affect future performance.
Trust the Local Experts for Your Backup Generator Needs
A standby power system is a significant investment that requires regular maintenance to ensure its long-term reliability and efficient operation. At Mackey Services in Houston, Texas, we offer a full range of backup home generator services to preserve the unit so that it works during an outage when you need it most. In addition to our residential standby power solutions, we offer HVAC, backup power, and electrical services to businesses in the Houston area.
For more on our home generator products and services, or to schedule a maintenance appointment, contact us at Mackey Services now!
