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Many Commerce, MI, homeowners wonder how to prepare their Generac generators ahead of the winter. Michigan’s harsh winters can present unique challenges for generators.
Ice storms, heavy snow, and extreme low temperatures mean power outages are a common occurrence, which means keeping your Generac generator functioning is essential to maintaining your safety and comfort.
At Don’s Electric, we specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing Generac home generators. Our professional electricians serve Commerce, MI, and the surrounding areas, and can help your home stay powered throughout the winter. Contact us today to learn more about working with our team for your Generac generator.
3 Critical Generac Generator Maintenance Tasks To Do Before Winter
Generac standby generators are an investment, and it’s important to protect them to make sure they stay functional throughout their lifespan.
Like any appliance, Generac generators require routine maintenance to ensure the automatic transfer switch and engine are functioning properly. That way, you can be confident that your generator will be reliable in the next power outage.
To prepare your Generac generator before the winter, there are three main things you need to do:
1. Change Oil & Filter
Changing a Generac generator’s oil and filter before winter is crucial. Old, dirty oil can thicken in cold temperatures, which impacts the performance of the machine. Engine strain and premature wear on internal components are common issues that arise from old oil.
When it comes to Generac generators, they require specific oil formulations to function properly. The correct grade of synthetic oil is crucial, since it’s designed to get the generator’s engine running in extreme cold weather conditions. This type of oil provides instant lubrication, even when temperatures are below freezing.
Similarly, it’s important to change the oil filter to keep your engine functioning. A clogged filter reduces the engine’s overall efficiency, and forces it to consume more fuel while it produces less power. As a result, you’ll end up paying higher operating costs.
2. Inspect Battery & Connection
A faulty battery is one of the most common reasons a Generac generator fails to start. A battery is the weakest link in the engine system, and is significantly affected by cold weather.
Extreme cold reduces a battery’s charge and power output, and exacerbates any existing weaknesses it has.
To make sure your battery is ready for the winter, hire a certified technician to perform an inspection. An inspector will test the battery’s specific gravity and voltage. They use specialized tools to go beyond surface voltage and check the internal health and capacity of the battery.
They’ll also clean and lubricate the terminals to prevent corrosion, and if your Generac generator has a battery warmer pad, they’ll check to make sure it’s working effectively.
3. Test Automatic Transfer Switch
The most important component of a Generac automatic standby generator is the automatic transfer switch (ATS). The ATS is responsible for monitoring utility power, and tells the generator to start if the power goes out. It safely switches your home’s electrical load to the generator, without the risk of back-feeding the grid.
Before the winter, it’s a good idea to hire a certified technician to test the ATS and make sure it’s properly calibrated. An expert can make sure the delay settings and voltage readings are accurate, and test to make sure the system starts up and cools down efficiently.
Contact Our Expert Generac Generator Installers in Commerce, MI
Need help with your Generac generator ahead of the winter? Our team at Don’s Electric serves homeowners and businesses in Commerce, MI, and the surrounding areas.
With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we’ve built a reputation as one of the best electricians in Metro Detroit. Our team is committed to providing you with reliable Generac home backup power, and can help with any of your generator needs, whether it’s a new installation, routine maintenance, or repair.
Above all, our family-owned company prioritizes excellent customer service. Our team is fully insured, and guarantees our work for one year.
Ready to get started with our Generac generator experts in Commerce, MI? Call (248) 394-2151 or contact us online today for a quote.