Snow storms and freezing rain can result in lost power. Which can be especially dangerous when temperatures are low and you find yourself unable to provide warmth to your family.
Is your emergency generator ready for winter?
Emergency generators need to be adequately maintained and carefully inspected before use. Your generator may have a difficult time getting up and running in cold weather because of a cold engine. Oil becomes thicker and fuel doesn’t burn as efficiently in cold environments, which can also lead to problems when you’re trying to get your generator going. But with a bit of regular maintenance, you can ensure that emergency generator will work when you need it most.
Tips for getting your emergency generator winter ready:
If your generator is new
Homeowners are encouraged to seek help from an electrian, like A-Abel, if they have a new generator. An electrician can help you connect your generator safely.
Familiarize Yourself With Your Generator
Understand how your generator operates so you don’t have to fumble around trying to get it started in the dark.
Keep fuel on stand-by
During an emergency, fuel may be in short supply. You may need more than a small supply to get you by if a bad storm hits and the roads become dangerous. Remember to add fuel stabilizer to fuel that will sit unused for over 30 days – stabilizer will help prevent old fuel from damaging your generator and allows fuel to last up to 1 year. Stabilizer also removes the need to drain the tank when you’re done.
Check and change your oil often
Oil is important to the efficiency and lifespan of your emergency generator. Check oil levels whenever you add fuel. Make sure to change the oil after the first 5 hours when you use your generator for the first time. Then remember to change out the oil about 1,000 hours after each use. Be sure to have a few quarts available for emergencies.
Know where your generator is
Plan ahead on where you want to put your generator. Though you can store a generator just about anywhere, you should NEVER run your emergency generator indoors. An open door or fan isn’t enough to protect you from the carbon monoxide that can quickly build-up and linger when your generator is running. Make sure to operate your generator outdoors, away from doors, windows, vents, and other openings to your home.
Are you ready for winter? For more information and help with setting up your generator, contact the electrical experts at A-Abel, today.
