If you’ve invested in a generator, you probably won’t have to change your daily routine too much when the power goes out. However, if your generator hasn’t been maintained, it could struggle to meet your demands. The good news is that there are several basic steps you can take to maintain your generator.
Change the Oil
Changing the oil is one of the most important things that you can do to keep your generator in top condition. Oil lubricates components and can prevent overheating, which could result in serious damage. In order for oil to do its job well, it needs to be fairly fresh. That’s because oil can gradually degrade, getting dirtier and thicker with time. As you’d imagine, this can make it hard for the oil to flow easily through the system.
Check your generator’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends in terms of the type of oil you need and the frequency at which it should be changed. For instance, your manufacturer might recommend that you have your oil changed every 50 or 100 hours.
Change the Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are another essential component in a generator. They help the engine turn on, and without them, you won’t be able to run your generator. Your manual will inform you as to how often you should have your spark plugs changed. The spark plugs are fairly easy to access, making this a relatively quick task. Plus, spark plugs are affordable and readily available.
Clean Your Generator
Cleaning your generator is perhaps the most basic maintenance task you can perform. Just wipe it down with a soft, damp rag every few months or so. This can prevent grime from building up. If too much accumulates, it could clog filters and make it harder for electrical components to connect with each other. Another smart idea is to cover up your generator or keep it contained in a shed or closet when it’s not needed.
Run Your Generator Periodically
Just as people need exercise, so do generators. Once every three or four months, turn on your generator and let it run for about 15 minutes. This test run can charge the battery and get oil flowing through the engine. Importantly, it lets you know whether any major problems need to get addressed. You’ll obviously know that you need professional help if your engine doesn’t turn on at all or if it makes loud noises, for example.
Ready to Help You
Keeping your generator clean, giving it a test run, and using new spark plugs and oil can all be beneficial. You can also have a professional check over your system to make sure that the internal components are functioning well. For assistance with generator maintenance in Bakersfield, CA, call our experts at Angeloni Electrical Services.
