As a homeowner, you need a power backup plan to help light up your house during a power outage. One of the most affordable and reliable options is a generator, and modern power generators are designed to switch automatically when your power goes off. So, the critical question you need to ask yourself is: Is your generator ready to power your house in case of a power outage?
To keep your generator working effectively, you must regularly upkeep it. This article offers you three home generator maintenance tips to ensure your generator doesn’t fail when you need it the most.
Regular Change in the Oil
Since your power generator runs on gasoline, its engine requires an oil lubricant to prevent its moving parts from wear and tear. Oil also prevents the engine from seizing and keeps some features cool. It’s also good for avoiding corrosion when your generator remains idle.
But you must change the oil regularly to keep your generator running optimally and reliably. Most experts advise changing the first oil after running your generator for 8 to 30 hours. This helps to keep your portable generator free of contaminants that are likely to get into its motor during use.
After the first oil change, you should change the oil after every 100 hours of use. But always follow your manufacturer’s advice, and changing the oil regularly keeps your generator performing effectively for many years.
Cleaning Your Generator Thoroughly
Don’t let gasoline sit in your generator’s tank for a long time because it might result in the build-up of gum deposits that can negatively affect the performance of your generator. Experts recommend emptying the tank after every use and the air filters cleaned and checked for dust once a week. You should clean your generator regularly if you reside in a sandy or dusty area or use it daily.
Storing Your Generator Safely
After every use, you’re supposed to empty the fuel lines of your generator before storing it. Also, keep in a dry place, away from weather elements. If you store your generator outdoors, build a shed over and around it or cover it with a tent.
Check on your generator regularly, especially when it’s sitting idle. Remove any dust and mold that might have accumulated over time to ensure it continues to function properly when you power it.
