Generator Maintenance Tips
A portable generator is a great asset if for whatever reason you cannot rely on the local power grid. However, if the generator itself cannot be relied on, that is a serious problem. Like any machine, a portable generator can be expected to function well so long as the required maintenance is regularly performed. To keep your generator running smoothly, follow these maintenance tips from Roseville Motorsports.
Oil and Filters
Like anything else with an engine, a portable generator will eventually need to have its oil and filters changed. If your model is new, the first oil change will be due after the first 30 hours of usage, with subsequent oil changes every 100 hours. It is also advisable to change the oil at the beginning of a new season, even if less than 100 hours have passed since the last change. Consider stocking up on oil and filters.
Run Your Generator Regularly
If your generator goes unused for long periods of time, oil and lubricant can build up and cause future maintenance problems. To avoid this, you simply need to run your generator for about a half hour every two months to keep all of the components in working order. Obviously, this isn’t necessary if you are actively using your generator, but it is good to keep in mind for the off-season.
Fuel Storage
Storing your fuel properly is also important. Drain your generator’s fuel systems whenever it is not in use to prevent gum deposits from forming on important components. Fuel containing an alcohol blend attracts moisture, and acidic fluid and gas tend to build up and cause damage if the fuel system is not properly drained.
If you are going to store your generator for a month or more, there are steps you can take to ensure it works properly when you get it out. Add a gasoline stabilizer to the fuel tank and run the generator for ten minutes. Then let the engine cool and remove all gasoline from the tank. Restart the generator and let it run until the lack of fuel makes it stop. With all these steps completed, your generator is ready to be stored away!
Ensure Proper Wattage
Every generator has two listed capacity ratings. The first is rated for continuous watts, which is the maximum power the generator can put out on a prolonged basis. This is the rating you should use when picking out a generator. The other, higher rating, called the starting rating, is the extra power the generator can produce when the electric motor starts up. This number can be deceptive because the generator only produces this amount of electricity for a few seconds after startup. If you use the starting rating as a basis for how much power you want your generator to output, it will eventually burn out from overuse.
Generator maintenance can be a difficult task. If you don’t feel confident in your ability to complete a repair, there is no shame in getting help from a trained expert. For more information or to view models, visit Roseville Motorsports at our dealership in Roseville, California. We are proud to serve the central California area, including local communities like Sacramento and Elk Grove.