As we ring in the new year, it’s the perfect time to check in on one of the most important pieces of equipment for your home’s security and comfort—your standby generator. Regular maintenance keeps your generator in top shape, ready to power your home through any unexpected outage. At Automated Home Generators, we offer a thorough annual generator maintenance service with certified technicians to ensure your generator operates smoothly all year long. Here’s a look at why scheduling annual generator maintenance is essential and what our comprehensive checkup includes.
Why Annual Generator Maintenance Matters
- Prevent costly repairs: Regular checkups can catch small issues before they turn into bigger, more expensive problems.
- Ensure efficiency: A well-maintained generator runs more efficiently, using fuel wisely and reducing energy waste.
- Extend equipment life: Proper care can extend the life of your generator, helping you get the most out of your investment.
- Maintain safety: A certified technician can identify any safety issues, such as fuel leaks or electrical hazards, giving you peace of mind.
What’s Included in Automated Home Generators’ Annual Maintenance?
Our comprehensive maintenance service covers all the essential components of your generator to ensure it’s ready for anything the new year may bring.
1. Oil and Filter Change
Just like a car engine, your generator’s engine relies on clean oil to run smoothly. We start by changing the oil and oil filter, which helps lubricate the engine and prevent wear. Fresh oil is critical for maintaining your generator’s performance, especially if it’s been running frequently.
2. Fuel System Check and Filter Replacement
We inspect and replace fuel filters, ensuring that your generator is drawing clean fuel, free of contaminants. For diesel-fueled units, we take extra steps to perform fuel testing and reconditioning. Additionally, we remove any water from the fuel tank, which helps to avoid corrosion and prevent freezing in low temperatures.
3. Crankcase Breather Cleaning
The crankcase breather regulates airflow and prevents pressure buildup within the generator’s engine. A clean breather ensures that your generator operates smoothly and avoids potential issues from poor airflow.
4. Spark Plug Replacement
Spark plugs play a vital role in igniting the fuel, making them crucial for your generator’s operation. We replace spark plugs to ensure quick, reliable starts and efficient operation every time your generator kicks on.
5. Cooling System Maintenance
Our technicians check the coolant concentration and flush the cooling system if needed, which prevents your generator from overheating. By regulating the engine temperature, we can help prolong its lifespan and keep it ready for any demand.
6. Load Bank Testing
For diesel generators, we run a load bank test to evaluate the generator’s full power capabilities. This process helps prevent “wet stacking” (a build-up of unburned fuel in the exhaust), keeps the system healthy, and ensures your generator is ready to handle heavy loads.
7. Electrical Check-Up and Adjustment
We double-check voltages, making adjustments if necessary, to ensure your generator is outputting the correct power level. We also inspect electrical connections, ensuring everything is properly tightened and free from corrosion.
8. Scheduled Exercise and Testing
Generators need to be “exercised” regularly to keep all parts moving and running properly. During your maintenance visit, we set up or check the exercise schedule, ensuring it runs at a designated day and time. This keeps the engine lubricated, prevents battery drain, and ensures a reliable startup when needed.
9. Complete Inspection and Cleaning
We perform a complete inspection, including the generator and transfer switch. Our team looks for loose connections, signs of wear, dirt buildup, abnormalities, and potential leaks. A thorough cleaning ensures everything is in its best possible shape.
10. Battery Testing and Maintenance
Your generator’s battery needs special care, too. We clean and inspect the battery, performing a load test and voltage test to ensure it’s fully charged and ready for action.
Ready to Schedule Your Maintenance?
Start the new year with the confidence that your generator is in prime condition. With Automated Home Generators’ annual maintenance, you can count on your generator to perform when it’s needed most, ensuring your home’s safety and comfort. Contact us today to get started.
