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Generator Tips & Tricks
7/15/2019 (Permalink)
Generators are very useful when a storm strikes and your power goes out. Generators can keep heaters running and refrigerators going which can make life a lot tolerable until your power gets turned back on. Generator maintenance is very important to ensure that your generator works. Here are some helpful tips to avoid common mistakes:
1. Don't Get Burned by Wattage Ratings
Every generator lists two capacity ratings. The first is “rated” or “continuous” watts. That’s the maximum power the generator will put out on an extended basis. And it’s the only rating you should rely on when buying a generator. The higher “maximum” or “starting” rating refers to how much extra power the generator can put out for a few seconds when an electric motor—like the one in your fridge or furnace—starts up.
2. Stock Up on Oil and Filters
Most new generators need their first oil change after just 25 hours. Beyond that, you’ll have to dump the old stuff and refill every 50 or 60 hours. So you need to store up enough oil and factory filters to last a few days (at least!). Running around town searching for the right oil and filter is the last thing you want to be doing right after a big storm.
3. Chill Out Before You Refill
Let your generator engine cool before you refill with gasoline. Generator fuel tanks are always on the top of the engine so they can “gravity-feed” gasoline. If you spill gas when refueling a hot generator, you are putting yourself and others at risk of fire. Always make sure your generator is cooled down before refilling.
4. Running Out of Gas Can Cost You
Some generators, especially low-cost models, can be damaged by running out of gas. They keep putting out power while coming to a stop, and the electrical load in your house drains the magnetic field from the generator coils. When you restart, the generator will run fine, but it won’t generate power. You’ll have to haul it into a repair shop, where you’ll pay about $40 to re-energize the generator coils. So keep the tank filled and always remove the electrical load before you shut down.
5. Old Fuel is Your Worst Enemy
Always use fresh, stabilized gas in your generator. Stale fuel is the number one cause of generator starting problems. Once storm season is over, run your generator until all the fuel is used up, this will prevent any issues when you go to start your generator next storm season.
6. Backfeeding Kills
Backfeeding is never completely safe, no matter what the internet says. If you want to prevent a bunch of extension cords around your house, hire an electrician to install a transfer switch. Backfeeding can (and does) kill family members, neighbors and power company lineman every year.
7. Store Gasoline Safely
Generator tanks don’t hold that much gasoline. Instead of buying a large gas can, buy two high quality 5-gallon cans. This will decrease your chances of overfilling the tank.
8. Lock It Down
The only thing worse than the rumbling sound of an engine outside your bedroom window is the sound of silence after someone steals your expensive generator. If you are leaving your generator out overnight, sure to make sure it is secure and can’t be easily stolen. Make sure you are combining both electrical and security safety when securing your generator.
9. Use A Heavy-Duty Cord
Generators are loud, so most people park them as far away from the house as possible. (Be considerate of your neighbors, though.) That’s OK as long as you use heavy-duty 12-gauge cords and limit the run to 100 ft. Lighter cords or longer runs mean more voltage drop. And decreased voltage can cause premature appliance motor burnout.
10. Exercise Your Generator
Try and exercise your generator at least once a month. This practice will prolong the life of your generator and keep it in tip-top shape.
Resources:
https://www.familyhandyman.com/smart-homeowner/generator-maintenance-tips/
http://www.nyelectriccompany.com/why-should-i-exercise-my-generator/