Winter is right around the corner and there is a good chance that you will need to use your generator. While the cold temperatures can take a toll on machinery, there are some tips and tricks you can use to make sure that your generator is running when you need it most.
Clear the Are around Your Generator
Make sure that you keep the area around your generator clear of leaves, snow and other debris. This will prevent the vents from becoming clogged, which can also lead to overheating. It is also a good idea to clear a path to the generator, especially if it snows, so that you can easily complete any maintenance or repairs.
Change the Oil
Oil can accumulate all sorts of buildup, which is why you want to change it regularly and replace the filter. As a general rule, consider changing the oil after every 50 hours of operation.
Periodically Run Your Generator
Again, the cold can be hard on all types of machinery from your car to your generator. It is a good idea to allow it to warm up and run for a few minutes at regular intervals. This will help keep the parts properly lubricated and prevent them from becoming locked up.
Invest in Regular Maintenance
You probably don’t have to use your generator very often, which makes it easy to become an out of sight, out of mind piece of equipment that doesn’t get much attention. If you really want to prepare for the winter and make sure your generator is running at an optimal level, it is a good idea to have a professional inspect and clean your generator.
If you want help preparing your generator for the winter so that you are totally ready for any outages caused by severe weather or problems with the power grid, contact the professionals at Alternative Power. We offer a wide range of services for commercial and residential generators.
