An emergency generator is excellent for keeping things running in your organization or home. It ensures all essential equipment continues to function in an emergency. If you live in a location that demands long travel time to reach, a working generator is a lifesaver. Today you’ll discover tips to help ensure your generator is always ready to go, thanks to the folks at Virginia Power Solutions. The company offers emergency generator repair in Richmond, VA.
1. Keep Your Generator Dry
The slightest rainfall can cause damage to something in your emergency generator because electricity is susceptible to water. So consider investing in an enclosure or waterproof cover if your generator is a portable model. You can also build or purchase a small shed (similar to doghouses) to store portable generators.
2. Keep a Supply of Oil and Filters
Make sure you have a stock of oil and filters. Those are the last things you want to be missing during an extended power outage. Low oil can damage your engine even though many generators have a shutdown feature to prevent that from happening.
3. Top the Oil During Long Periods of Use
Top off the oil during every refuel if you’re running your emergency generator daily. You should also do a full oil change before every 100 hours of running the generator. Ensure the unit is cool before servicing it.
4. Use Heavy-duty Cords to Prevent Motor Burn-out
Light-duty cords increase voltage use, which can cause a premature motor burn-out, so use heavy-duty cords instead. These wire cords offer better performance for generators and use less voltage, ensuring your machine doesn’t burn-out prematurely. Preferably, get a long heavy-duty cord so you can keep that noisy generator far away from the bedroom.
5. Keep the Gas Tank Full
Keep your generator’s tank filled with gas to avoid damage. When your generator is empty, it abruptly stops, and that may cause the generator to lose magnetism. That’s because your home or building drains the residual magnetism from the generator. And without some magnetism in the generator coils, it won’t restart.
6. Get a Warranty
Investing in a warranty is the best way to protect your generator. A good warranty ensures you can summon a technician whenever help is needed. Determine whether you need full or partial coverage; however, the former will give you peace of mind.
7. Recharge Generator Batteries
Run your generator every three months for 30 minutes to charge the battery. That way, you won’t run into problems with the electric starter.
“Generators require ongoing maintenance to keep running. A properly maintained emergency generator can last for decades” – Virginia Power Solutions, emergency generator repair in Richmond, VA.
Take care of your emergency generator, and you’ll have peace of mind. Good luck.
