Generator Maintenance: Increase the Lifespan of Your Generator

Generator Maintenance: The Experts Answer All of Your Questions

Losing power for an extended period makes rapid recovery difficult. This is true for businesses of all sizes and residences. The primary causes of power outages in South Texas are extreme weather events and the leading solution is a generator or generators as backup to the power grid. If a backup generator is part of your emergency preparedness plan, the plan should include proper care for the equipment. No one would let a car sit for a year or longer and hope it runs smoothly during an emergency; it is not advisable to ignore generators and hope they run when needed during an emergency.

Here are some steps to ensure generators are primed and ready to function for emergencies.

Do Not Exceed the Capacity

Generators are designed to handle a given load and should not be required to exceed its designed capacity. Exceeding the design load can lead to premature wear and shorten the useful life of the equipment. If the facility load exceeds the generator’s capacity, determine which circuits are necessary and which are not. Plan to close unnecessary circuits while the generator is in use.

Follow Generator Maintenance Guidelines

Generators come with operation manuals that detail schedules for maintenance, oil and filter changes, and inspection requirements. Following these guidelines will ensure maintaining the warranty and keeping the generator at peak efficiency during emergencies.

Generator Maintenance: Clean Surroundings

Generators must be installed at a sufficient distance from other structures to prevent exhaust from entering a facility and provide adequate airflow for the generator to function efficiently. This leaves plenty of space for the wind to deposit windblown leaves, trash, and debris in contact with the generator. Such debris can clog air intakes and cause overheating. Shutting the generator down during a power outage to clear away trash and leaves would be an unnecessary waste of time. Keep the environs of generators clean of wind-blown leaves and debris.

Generator Maintenance: Stabilize Fuel

Some generator systems will be connected to the local natural gas utility and some systems utilize stored fuel. The storage capacity to cover an extended power outage is quite large and needs to be stabilized to prevent the fuel from degrading. A better plan is to systematically use stored fuel and replace the supply.

Generator Maintenance: Test the System Regularly

The operation manual guidelines should include a routine for testing a generator, including

This type of attention to detail will ensure the generator is prepared for an emergency at any time and the staff is comfortable with startup and shutdown procedures.

To keep this vital building system ready at a moment’s notice and running for years to come, choose to replace parts with high-quality components from the manufacturer. When repairs are necessary, consult with a trusted professional team with large generator repair experience.

If you have questions about Generator Maintenance, AirPro Can Help!

With our four decades of experience as a Residential Electrician Contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to help answer your Generator Maintenance questions.

We have financing options available with great options with up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call our team of Electricians at  281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your electrical repair, electrical safety, Home Generator installation, and Generator Maintenance needs.

 

Full Service Air Conditioning & Heating, Commercial HVAC, Ductless HVAC and
Air Quality & Insulation in the North and West Houston, TX Area