Tropical storms and the inevitable blackouts that follow them pose a constant threat to all of Florida during the hurricane season (June 1st to November 30th), but with the surprise formation of Hurricane Alex in the Atlantic just last month, it’s now more apparent than ever that there really is no way of knowing where and when the next 2016 storm will appear. So, while backup generators may be considered a luxury in some places, they should be considered an absolute necessity for Florida homes. With your backup generator being the star of your backup power system, making sure that it is well-maintained and working properly at all times is of utmost importance to ensure the protection of your family, your home, and your business during a sudden emergency.
For the most part, backup generators don’t often experience technical issues since, unlike other appliances, generators remain dormant most of the year until they are actually needed. However, this irregular usage can make it difficult to recognize when repairs are needed. Having a technician perform a maintenance check at least once or twice a year (as well as after any major storms) is highly recommended by professionals. Luckily, there are a few red flags you can look for if you suspect your generator is in need of a tune up.
Alert
Alerts are the most immediately obvious red flags used to warn you that something in your backup generator needs attention or repair. Thankfully, the vast majority of modern generators —residential and commercial—can perform automatic weekly self-tests, warning you if there is any deviation from optimal functionality. However, if your generator is not equipped with the self-test feature, you should run manual tests as regularly as possible and call a technician if you discover anything unusual.
Wear and Tear
Visible damage done to a generator is another immediate sign that it is in need of repair. Generators don’t typically fall victim to any notable wear and tear within the early years of their lifespan (if at all), but it is possible. Anything from weather conditions to human error could cause damage to the main frame, so checking for visible signs of damage is always a good idea. Even if it appears minor, any damage to the outside of the generator—cracks, dents, water damage or bare/loose wiring—could cause an interior malfunction, so if you come across any such damages you should call a technician for possible repair.
Leaks
Backup generators, like any major piece of machinery, are likely to experience some sort of complication after decades of use. Leaks can occur on older generators and are one of the hardest issues to spot since they can spring from practically anywhere. Depending on the type of generator you have, the leak could be diesel fuel, oil, natural gas, coolant, or some combination. In any case, leakages not only weaken the performance of the generator but also pose a serious safety hazard if gathered in puddles around the generator. Check regularly for leaks or puddles, and if you spot any, call a technician immediately.
Tattered Electrical Components
Close examination of the electrical workings like wiring, buttons, connectors, switches, and the battery is a vital part of any manual inspection, especially if you notice anything odd like unusual noises coming from your generator. Having any weak points in your generator’s electrical system immediately repaired should always be a top priority in the upkeep of your generator’s operability. If you’re relying on your backup generator, faulty electrical components exposed to bad weather and any other damaging conditions could cost you your backup power in the middle of a heavy storm.
Start-Up Trouble
During inspections, it’s also important to make sure there is no delay in your generator’s startup. If there is, or if it doesn’t start at all, there’s a strong chance that either the engine is damaged or the battery was drained as a result of long periods of dormancy. In addition, if the problem is the battery, getting it repaired as quickly as possible will prevent any (further) damage to the engine. Backup generators must run smoothly and effortlessly, and anything less than that should be brought to the attention of a technician.
It is of the utmost importance that your backup generator is not only operational but in perfect working condition inside and out so that in the event of a blackout, storm, or other emergency, you and your family can enjoy the comfort of uninterrupted power. If you come across any of these red flags in your personal generator inspections, call Assurance Power Systems at 561-867-4041 to set up an appointment to immediately fix these issues!