A World Population Review post shows that North Carolina experienced 304 hours of power outages in 2024. Generators are invaluable during such times because they provide electricity to keep homes running smoothly.

However, they require regular upkeep to function optimally. Neglecting maintenance will lead to unexpected failures, costly repairs, and a shorter lifespan. It will also cause unexpected outages when you need your generator the most.



Let us discuss how generator servicing and maintenance will improve your system's reliability.

Preventing Unexpected Failures

It can be frustrating if your generator fails to start during a storm or unexpected power outage. Unfortunately, the issue may become familiar if you do not maintain your unit.

Following a home generator servicing schedule allows you to catch minor problems before they become major. You can identify issues such as:

• Worn-out spark plugs
• Clogged fuel line
• A weak battery

You may contact an expert to address them and increase long-term generator reliability.

Extending Your Generator's Lifespan

A generator can serve you for several years, depending on the chosen mode. But, without proper installation and maintenance, the internal components wear out faster, reducing longevity.

Keeping up with maintenance helps you recover your investment by ensuring your generator lasts longer. It also prevents frequent breakdowns that eventually contribute to engine failure.

Improving Efficiency

If your generator is not running efficiently, it may burn more fuel and struggle to provide power. These issues lead to high energy costs and significant wear and tear.

Regular generator servicing and maintenance will ensure that every component works properly. For example, changing the oil on schedule reduces engine stress and prevents overheating. Cleaning the filters also improves airflow and lowers fuel usage.

On the other hand, maintaining the battery of a standby unit guarantees energy independence by ensuring your generator is ready to turn on in case of an outage.

Protecting Your Home and Appliances

A malfunctioning generator may send uneven power to your home. The sudden spikes can damage your appliances, costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on repairs and replacements.

Inconsistent power may also damage your home electrical system in the following ways:

• Overheating wires
• Blowing fuses
• Burning bulbs

Proper home generator maintenance protects your home and prevents costly appliance and electrical wiring repairs.

Enhancing Your Safety

Your generator may develop exhaust leaks, allowing carbon monoxide (CO) to build up in your Eure home. Since CO is odorless and invisible, you may not notice when it leaks. Exposure to it can lead to severe illness and even fatalities.

Maintaining your generator helps ensure the exhaust system is functioning correctly. It protects you from harmful exposure and gives you peace of mind.

Protecting the Warranty

Generator manufacturers require you to maintain your unit regularly to keep the warranty valid. If you do not follow their guidelines, you might have to pay for expensive repairs out of pocket.

Regular servicing allows you to prevent some damages, but you must follow the schedule recommended by your manufacturer.

Besides, keep detailed records of all repairs or inspections since you may need them later. Working with licensed Eure generator experts is crucial to protect your warranty.

Essential Generator Maintenance Tasks

Learn about essential maintenance tasks to enjoy the benefits of routine generator servicing. Additionally, know how often you must service various parts for optimal functioning.

Here are some key generator maintenance tasks to consider:

Routine Inspections

Hiring a generator inspection expert at least once a year will help you detect wear and tear. If you use your unit frequently, scheduling inspections at least twice annually is better.

During the inspection, a professional will examine key components such as:

• The generator engine
• Fuel system
• Battery
• Cooling system

They will then tell you about any repair services or replacements you need for your equipment.

Changing the Oil

Oil lubricates your generator's engine to prevent friction and overheating. However, it breaks down and becomes dirty over time, reducing effectiveness.

If you have a standby generator, change its oil at least once a year. But if you use a portable one, ensure you change it after heavy usage. Using the oil type the generator manufacturer recommends for the best performance is also critical.

Replacing Air and Fuel Filters

Dirty air and fuel filters affect fuel delivery and your generator's efficiency. Always replace the air filters annually or whenever you notice they are filthy.

Besides, get a new fuel filter, as your Eure generator installation expert recommends, to prevent clogs.

Maintaining the Battery

A dead battery is one of the most common reasons your generator may fail to start. Use these regular generator maintenance tips to ensure reliability.

• Test the battery voltage every 3-6 months
• Clean the battery terminals to prevent corrosion
• Replace old batteries

Running the Generator Monthly

Even if you do not need to use your generator, running it will help keep the engine in good shape. The process also lubricates components and prevents fuel from going stale.

Run your home generator at least once monthly for about 15-30 minutes to charge the battery and detect issues before an outage. Listen for strange noises and turn on a few appliances to test whether the unit works correctly.

Signs You Need to Schedule Generator Servicing and Maintenance

If you want to determine whether your generator is due for servicing and maintenance, look out for the following signs:

• The unit struggles to start
• You smell burnt wires
• There is unsteady power output
• Your generator runs but shuts off suddenly
• It is been long since the last maintenance

If you notice such signs, turn off your unit and contact a generator expert in Eure. Explain the issue and schedule an inspection and professional servicing. With an expert's help, you will diagnose and fix your unit to avoid costly replacements.

Discover the Importance of Generator Maintenance With Vancelectric, LLC

Proper generator servicing and maintenance will protect the warranty and ensure the system works optimally—book regular inspections to improve your unit's efficiency and protect your home. Maintain the battery and always get repairs and servicing from Eure generator experts.

Vancelectric, LLC has been offering generator services in Eure since 1998. Our licensed master electrician provides customized services and flexible scheduling. Check out our website for details about our services.