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Looking to prepare your backup generator before the winter? Many homeowners wonder what steps they should take ahead of the winter to make sure their home backup generator is functioning properly.
From high winds, heavy snow, and ice storms, there are several ways you can prepare to make sure your standby backup generator stays effective.
At Don’s Electric, we’re one of the best backup generator installation companies serving Troy, MI, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to learn more about working with our team.
3 Maintenance Steps for Your Backup Generator Before the Snow Hits
The last problem any property owner wants to deal with in the middle of a power outage is a generator failure. Generator failures during the winter often happen from a lack of preparation for the cold weather.
Frozen components, low oil, and clogged filters are common reasons behind power outages.
To make sure your backup generator starts and runs reliably despite low temperatures, you can take the following steps:
1. Check All Fluids & Filters
The first step to preparing your backup generator for the cold weather is to check all its fluids and filters. Similar to a car, a generator needs fresh oil, the right coolant levels, and a clean filter to run efficiently in cold weather.
In particular, changing the oil is crucial. As oil gets older, it tends to thicken, which makes it harder for the engine to turn over. The more trouble the engine has during startup, the more it can stress out the battery and the starter.
To prevent this from happening, it’s recommended to use synthetic oil specifically designed for sub-freezing temperatures.
In addition, check the coolant level and anti-freeze ratio to prevent engine block damage from freezing water.
2. Inspect Battery & Connection
The battery is the weakest link in any automatic backup generator. Cold temperatures naturally reduce a battery’s performance over time, so it’s important to ensure it’s fully charged and tested before winter approaches.
Check the battery terminals for signs of corrosion. Corrosion will typically show as a white or blue powdery substance. It severely limits the flow of current from the battery despite a full charge. This can prevent the unit from starting.
It’s a good idea to hire an experienced technician to clean the battery, clean the terminals, and check for corrosion. They can also apply an anti-corrosion spray that protects all the terminals and cable connections.
3. Clear the Area & Vents
Generators need a large volume of air to keep the engine cool and dispel exhaust. Snowdrifts and ice buildup can block the vents and exhaust for your backup generator.
If this happens, it can make it dangerous to operate your generator, leading to a total system shutdown. Blocked vents cause the engine to overheat and trip, due to carbon monoxide buildup.
To prevent this, make sure the area at least three to five feet around the generator is clear of snow before and during a storm.
Contact Don’s Electric Today to Prepare Your Backup Generator for Winter
If you need help preparing your backup generator for winter, call our team at Don’s Electric. Our experts provide emergency backup generator services, including installation, repair, and routine maintenance.
With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we’ve built a reputation as one of the best electricians in Metro Detroit. We offer backup generator services in Troy, MI, and the surrounding areas.
Above all, our family-owned company prioritizes excellent customer service. Our team is fully insured, and guarantees our work for one year.
Whether you have a residential or commercial property, we can ensure your backup generator is ready for cold weather.
Want to learn more about working with us? Call (248) 394-2151 or contact us online today for a quote.