It is critical to have a portable generator on hand in case of a power outage. However, simply acquiring one is not enough. Routine maintenance on your portable generator is also required, with both scheduled and unpredictable blackouts.
When you want to use your portable generator, you want to ensure it’s working correctly and that no problems obstruct electricity distribution.
As a homeowner, cordless power tools can get you out of a bind, especially when the power is out. These fantastic tools allow you to work outside, during a power outage, or in areas that do not have electricity.
How to maintain a portable generator the right way? These tips will ensure you can keep your generator in good working order.
#1 Keep Your Generator Clean And Covered When Not In Use
If your generator sits for days (weeks or months) in a shed or garage uncovered, it can become dusty and dirty. If pollutants (such as dust, mold, or debris) collect on your generator, they may penetrate essential components. As a result, you’ll need to keep your portable generator clean and protected to keep it in good working order.
The best practice to keep your portable generator clean is to buy a generator covering from your local hardware retailer. These covers can protect your portable generator and may have additional features such as water resistance or weatherproofing. However, they act as insulation, so remove them before starting your generator to minimize overheating.
If you are not interested in a covering for your generator, you will need to conduct a monthly cleaning to keep your device in good working order.
#2 Empty The Tank After Use
When your portable generator has completed its task, drain its tank into a fuel container. Although we recommend having enough gasoline for your generator, you should not store it idly in the fuel system. Ensuring gas is stored correctly will provide the best results and longer shelf life.
Idle fuel can result in gum deposits, which occur when gas adheres to metal surfaces and chambers of the portable generator. Gum buildup can inhibit its performance. As a result, it’s best to keep the gasoline in your portable generator in a separate container after each usage.
#3 Change The Oil Regularly
Like any motor with moving parts, a generator needs oil to ensure internal components are lubricated and working correctly. For new generators, experts recommend an oil change after the first 25 hours of running.
After that, your generator can operate for extended periods (up to 100 hours after the first few oil changes) before needing an oil change.
#4 Run It Periodically
You might not have experienced a need to run your generator for a time, but running it is essential. Operate it often for 30-60 minutes (not overnight) to keep the fluids fresh and the gears greased.
Intermittently starting your generator will keep the battery charged and help you spot any problems with the starter or other gears. If something does need to be repaired, downtime is an ideal moment to do so.
These maintenance tips will keep your generator in impeccable condition.
How to Maintain a Portable Generator
Leave a Reply