How Often Do I Need Backup Generator Maintenance Service? | Dillon, SC
Whether it’s powerful winds or a big storm that takes out the electricity in your home, it’s important to have a backup plan for how you’ll power essential appliances and keep the lights on. A backup generator, also called a standby or home generator, can provide the solution. At Mister Sparky Generators in Dillon, SC, we provide backup generator maintenance service to ensure that your generator is there when you need it the most.
What Does My Generator Do?
The generator hooks into your electric panel box and powers your home if the electricity goes out. You won’t have to think about it since it turns on automatically during a power outage. These systems power up an onboard alternator that sends electrical current throughout your home. They typically use gas and have outlets where you can plug in extension cords for convenience. Find out more about when you need backup generator maintenance service and what that entails.
Standby generators can help you return to life as normal during a power outage. They allow you to continue operating the refrigerator, heating and cooling systems, and lighting in your home. Generators convert mechanical energy into electricity if you are suddenly off the grid due to an outage. The same process is used to produce electricity for your city. A powerful engine spins a shaft to create a magnetic field. This is then converted into electrical force.
How Often Do I Need Generator Maintenance?
Although generators are designed to require little attention, there are critical maintenance tasks to keep in mind. Depending on the make and model that you choose, the maintenance needs vary. You can contact Mister Sparky Generators to determine when you require backup generator maintenance service. When we install new generators, our technicians will let you know when to schedule maintenance to keep your unit up and running in an emergency.
So, how often do you need backup generator maintenance service? That depends on how often you use the generator. At a minimum, it’s important to ask our technicians to replenish the oil and check the oil and fuel lines every two years. It’s equally important to inspect the louvers for dirt and debris that accumulate when you run the system. If more than one power outage occurs per year, we recommend an annual inspection to prolong the life of the unit and make sure that it’s working when the lights go out again.
Although it varies per unit, most generators require a complete inspection after 200 to 400 hours of operation. Our electricians can look at the manufacturer’s specifications, so you know when to schedule the next maintenance.
We also know how to install generators and make any necessary repairs. So, if we see something that doesn’t look right, we’ll let you know.
It’s important to maintain compliance with all state and local laws and to keep your family safe. So, schedule frequent maintenance service to prevent a power outage. This is particularly true if you have family members who rely on mechanical devices such as oxygen or CPAP machines.
If you live in an area where power outages are common, do not delay backup generator maintenance service.
What’s Included in Maintenance?
Maintenance services for home standby generators include changing the air filter to prevent clogs. We also change the oil and oil filter to prevent gunk from building up in the engine. We also check the spark plugs, battery charge, valve clearance, sediment traps, and ensure there are no major defects in the shell of the unit. If you have an older generator and it doesn’t respond to testing, we may recommend that you upgrade to a newer, more reliable model.
What Are the Benefits?
Scheduling a backup generator maintenance service gives you peace of mind that the experts can diagnose and repair any small problems they can stop your generator from working. This prevents larger, more expensive repairs down the road. Regular maintenance can also result in significant savings due to spoiled food and other problems that arise from losing your electricity. Early intervention helps to contain future repair costs and can result in early detection of issues that can put your family in danger.
What Are the Critical Components of Backup Generator Maintenance?
Mister Sparky Generators of Dillon, SC offers numerous maintenance services specific to the type of generator you have. They can range from a general inspection after a power outage to a more detailed inspection every two to four years.
Here are some of the main components of backup generator maintenance service:
- General condition checks to make sure the electrical and mechanical systems are working properly.
- Inspection of the cooling system which includes pulleys, pumps, hoses, and other components.
- We also inspect the lubrication system, noting oil levels, and ensuring all openings are free and clear of debris.
- Your generator also has an air system that includes air filters, piping and housing. We inspect these components as part of the service.
- We’ll also notice whether you need any work done on the fuel transfer system which includes the filter, tank and control linkage.
- Other systems included in the inspection include the exhaust system consisting of the manifold, silencer and piping.
- Our electricians will also inspect the main breaker box, power cables and other electrical components that power the generator.
Best Generator Maintenance Service
To ensure the safety of your home or business, it’s important to work with the experts when scheduling backup generator maintenance service. Mister Sparky Generators is a top electrical contractor specializing in standby generators and all related services. Planned maintenance can prevent operational failure that can leave your family in the dark.
It’s better to air on the side of caution when it comes to backup generator maintenance service. Contact Mister Sparky Generators today to schedule an appointment for generator installation, service and maintenance in Dillon, SC.
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