Extending the Life of Your Generator: Essential Maintenance Tips and Tricks

Vancelectric • June 11, 2024

A recent review of major outages across the United States showed that Virginia ranked seventh behind some states like California, Texas, and Louisiana.

Although the high-voltage transmission lines are strong, the distribution system isn't. During power outages in the state, many homes are left in the dark.

Investing in a generator is a great way to stay prepared for any major outage, but owning one isn't always easy. You can't buy one and leave it until you need it in an emergency.

Generator maintenance and repairs are necessary to ensure your system works when you need it to. Preventative maintenance can also extend the life of your generator so that you get the most out of your purchase.

Keep reading to learn more ways to prolong your generator's working life.

Follow the Manufacturer's Guidelines

Generator maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your generator. Maintenance requirements will depend on your machine's type, size, brand, age, and usage.

To ensure you are getting the most out of your investment, follow the manufacturer's guidelines. The manual will list recommendations for how to care for your specific model.

Review the guidelines thoroughly and keep your manual. If you ever need a refresher, you'll have handy instructions to look at.

Schedule Regular Inspections

One of the best generator care tips is to schedule regular inspections. This counts as preventative maintenance that will keep your generator running longer.

A generator company will complete inspections and performance testing. Routinely scheduling inspections at least once a year will help you grasp the condition of your generator.

A generator repair service will identify damaged parts during inspections. This allows you to catch small problems before they become costly errors.

Additionally, regular load bank testing will identify how well the unit works. It prevents carbon buildup that leads to electrical connection problems.

Regular load bank testing and preventative maintenance can prevent wet stacking. Wet stacking refers to unburned fuel that leaks into the exhaust pipes of the generator.

When this occurs, a buildup will happen, shortening the lifespan of your unit. Avoid overworking your generator, and always operate it with the correct fuel amount to mitigate the risk of wet stacking.

Use Quality Fluid and Check Oil Levels

A professional performs a fluid analysis during a regular inspection. The better the fluid quality, the longer your generator will last.

Again, you can check the manufacturer's recommendations to determine which fluid works best for your model. If this isn't an option, a professional will be able to recommend a great brand.

Quality fluid is important to the generator's performance and working life. High-quality fluid avoids overheating, contamination, and reduced power output.

The best fluid can also decrease the unit's wear and tear, preventing extra repair and maintenance.

You can check the oil levels of your generator on your own. Pull out the unit's dipstick to check the oil at least once a month.

Low oil levels indicate you should add more oil to the generator. Clean oil is a good sign. If the oil levels are low and you have dirty oil, the oil needs to be changed completely.

Keep Your Generator in a Good Location

A maintenance schedule means nothing if your generator is in a bad location. Not only can the wrong location prevent proper operation, but it can cause dangerous environments.

As a rule of thumb, keep your model away from doors, vents, windows, and high-traffic areas. Also, always keep the generator away from flammable objects.

Keeping the generator outside is ideal. To ensure it stays in good condition no matter the weather, invest in a hood or jacket. This will help protect the generator from debris, rain, and wind.

If your generator is in a particularly dusty and dirty area, change the air filter more often. Dirty air causes clogged filters, leading to an inefficient and shorter working life.

When the generator is not being used, you can move it indoors. However, following safety protocols is extremely important if you choose this route. You cannot operate the generator inside.

When turned on, generators emit an exhaust that can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is necessary to place your generator in a well-ventilated area outdoors. Proper airflow minimizes your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Handle Emergency Repairs Right Away

If you notice a problem with your generator, it's important to call a professional repair service immediately. Some of the most common signs you need generator servicing include:

Problems starting the model
Odd smells and noises
Fluid leaks
Excessive fuel usage
Visible damage

These are noticeable signs that you need emergency repairs. The longer you wait to fix them, the more you risk.

Repairs are cost-efficient compared to replacing the generator outright. If you leave your generator to sit with problems, the issues are going to get worse.

Run Your Generator Once a Month

Generators are typically used in emergencies, but what happens if there is an emergency and your backup generator isn't working? It is important to start your generator about once a month to prevent the possibility of your generator not working during an emergency.

Like a car, a generator needs to be used to keep the engine lubricated and battery charged. Run the generator for 30 minutes to see if there are any signs of damage.

Check your battery during this time. You'll likely need a new battery if you notice corrosion or signs of damage. Bad corrosion can spread to the entire generator if left unattended.

Let Us Handle Your Generator Maintenance!

Vancelectric LLC is your one-stop shop for your generator maintenance needs. Vance Cowper and his team specialize in different types of generators and are Generac® dealers.

We have 25 years of electrical construction and maintenance experience. Our team is trained infrared thermographers and has licenses in Virginia as master electricians and electrical contractors.

We provide trusted generator repair to keep your power source reliable in an emergency. We can also extend the life of your unit with general maintenance and repairs.

Since 1998, we've helped Virginians with repairs, maintenance, installation, and more! Call us today for a free estimate.

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Storm Preparedness: Why Backup Power Is a Must-Have for Your Family

By Vanceelectric • March 18, 2025

According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, each of the twenty-seven weather disasters that occurred in 2024 cost more than one billion dollars . Part of the reason these storms are so expensive is that they can knock out power infrastructure, causing outages. That is why it is so essential to have home backup power . But where do you get this type of reliable power backup power? And what safety considerations should you take into account? This emergency power options guide will answer these questions to prepare you for the next storm. The Risks of Power Outages During Storms Power outages during storms create various challenges, many of which can severely impact families. Losing electricity disrupts everyday routines, affecting lighting, heating or cooling systems, and access to communication. This makes staying connected with emergency services, loved ones, and weather updates difficult, leaving families vulnerable during a crisis. Beyond daily inconveniences, power outages also pose significant health and safety risks. Without refrigeration, perishable food can spoil, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. A prolonged outage can become a medical emergency for individuals who rely on medical devices such as oxygen concentrators or CPAP machines. Additionally, extreme temperatures can make homes uninhabitable, leading to dangerous conditions, particularly for children, older people, and those with health concerns. The financial burden of power outages can also be substantial. A sudden power surge can damage expensive electronics and appliances, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Types of Backup Power Solutions Several types of home backup power solutions are available, each with unique benefits and considerations. Portable generators offer a cost-effective and flexible option capable of powering select appliances. However, they require manual setup, fuel storage, and proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These generators are ideal for short-term power outages but require careful handling to ensure safety and efficiency. Learn more about in-stock generators . Standby residential power generators provide automatic power restoration during an outage for a more seamless solution. These units are permanently installed and typically run on natural gas or propane, eliminating the need for refueling. Standby generators can power an entire home and offer a reliable, long-term solution. However, they require professional installation and regular maintenance to maintain optimal working conditions. Read about professional generator installations and their benefits. Battery backup power systems provide another alternative, storing electricity during outages. While they are well-suited for short-term power needs, their effectiveness depends on battery capacity. For families looking for a sustainable and long-term solution, combining solar power with battery storage ensures electricity is available even during extended outages. Just make sure you are choosing the right generator . Choosing the Right Backup Power for Your Family Selecting the best backup power solution depends on various factors, including household power needs, budget, fuel availability, and ease of maintenance. Assessing power requirements is the first step in determining which appliances and systems must be operational during an outage. Understanding essential devices' wattage and energy consumption helps identify the appropriate generator size. Find the size generator you need to ensure your home is adequately powered. Budget is another critical consideration. Portable generators have a lower upfront cost but may require frequent refueling and maintenance. Standby generators involve a higher initial investment but provide automatic power restoration and long-term reliability. Battery backup systems and solar power solutions also have varying price points, with potential long-term savings on energy costs. Explore the complete guide to generator installation to make an informed decision. Fuel availability plays a crucial role in backup power planning. Portable generators often run on gasoline, which can be scarce during severe weather events. Standby natural gas or propane generators provide a more consistent fuel source. Battery-powered solutions eliminate the need for fuel but depend on stored energy capacity. Learn about the benefits of a Generac standby generator for a dependable energy source. Some generators require frequent servicing, while others offer automated operation with minimal intervention. Proper installation and routine maintenance ensure the system functions correctly when needed. Get essential maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your generator. Safety Considerations When Using Backup Power Backup power solutions provide security during power outages, but proper usage is essential to prevent safety hazards. Portable generators can produce carbon monoxide poisoning , which is a significant risk. Therefore, it is crucial to operate them outdoors, away from windows and doors. Homeowners should install carbon monoxide detectors to monitor indoor air quality and prevent exposure to this deadly gas. Electrical hazards are another concern when using backup power. Qualified professionals should always install generators to avoid the risk of electrical shocks, short circuits, or fire hazards. Proper grounding and adherence to local electrical codes ensure safe operation. Find out more about preparing your home for generator installation. Safe fuel storage and handling are also vital when using generators. Gasoline and propane should be stored in approved containers and kept away from living spaces. Spills should be cleaned immediately to reduce fire risks. Routine maintenance, including oil changes and component inspections, helps keep generators in peak condition and ready for emergency use. Learn more about generator repair and warranty services . Additional Storm Preparedness Tips Beyond the benefits of professional generator installation for backup power, families should take additional steps to prepare for storms. Create an emergency kit stocked with the following: Non-perishable food Water First-aid supplies Flashlights Extra batteries A battery-powered radio or alternative communication method helps families stay informed about storm developments and emergency updates. Developing a family emergency plan is also critical. Establishing communication protocols, designating meeting points, and outlining evacuation routes help ensure everyone knows their role during an emergency. Staying informed through weather forecasts and local emergency alerts provides valuable time to implement preparedness measures. Need Home Backup Power? Contact Vance Electric Investing in a reliable home backup power system is a crucial component of storm preparedness. It ensures your family's safety, comfort, and financial well-being during unforeseen power outages. Here at Vance Electric, we know how important it is to get an experienced installer for your backup needs. That is why we offer nearly three decades of experience. So, if you are ready for the electric help you need, contact us today.