Tips For Getting Your Generator Ready For Winter

If you own a generator, the winter months may be when it is put to use. This is because storms and icy conditions can cause your power to go out. However, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is setting your generator aside and forgetting about it until you need it. A generator needs care and maintenance in order to properly function. If yours has been sitting, here are a few tips to get it ready for use this winter season. 

Change the Oil 

Just like a car, the oil in your generator needs to be changed. And this is especially true after it has been sitting for some time. If the oil has been sitting, it can thicken with the help of dirt, dust and other residue that sits in your garage or generator storage area. Changing the oil helps to ensure the oil is not caked with residue, helping the oil to flow through the machine as it should. 

Replace the Air Filter

Every generator has one or more air filters. These filters should be replaced after your generator has been sitting for some time. Once again, dirt and dust are the reason why. Dirt and dust can clog an air filter, which can cause yours to not get the air it needs. Generators use air to help the unit function and remain cool. If yours cannot pull in air because of a dirty air filter, it can overheat, which can leave you without a generator to use should the power go out. 

Add Fuel

It is recommended that you drain the fuel out of your generator when storing the generator during the spring and summer months. As such, before winter hits, you will need to add fuel. However, if you neglected to drain the fuel, you may need to drain it now and add a fuel stabilizer when adding in new fuel. This helps to remove liquid from the lines that can be present thanks to the stale gas that has been sitting in the generator. After you add fuel, you will want to turn your generator on and allow it to run for about an hour or so. This helps cycle the fuel through the machine and helps you verify that your generator is working as it should. 

The last thing that you want is to turn on your generator when the power goes out only to discover that yours is not working. Preparing it for winter can help you avoid this potential problem. For more information, contact a business such as Northwest Power Services Inc.


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