A backup generator helps you and your family stay safe, comfortable and connected in case of an electrical outage. But, like many devices in your home, a backup generator needs regular maintenance and repair to operate properly.

The frequency of maintenance depends on your location and the amount of time your generator spends running during power outages. It is best to create a scheduled maintenance schedule for your generator.
Oil Change

One of the most important aspects of regular backup generator repair is changing the oil. This is because a generator engine needs to have the proper lubrication that reduces friction, which in turn decreases the heat.

This helps prevent overheating and wear, which can result in a breakdown in the engine. This can lead to failure during a power outage.

During the generator service process a professional technician will inspect and change the oil. This will help keep the engine clean and functioning properly, and increase the life of the generator.

If your generator has been used a lot during a power outage, you may need to change the oil more frequently than normal. This will depend on the atmosphere in which your generator runs, as airborne particles can cause the oil to become dirty more quickly.
Battery Inspection

Battery inspection is one of the most important parts of backup generator repair. It involves an assessment of the overall appearance and physical characteristics of the battery, connections and wires.

When a battery fails, it limits the ability of your backup generator to operate when needed. This is why regular testing and inspection of the battery is essential for preventing future issues.

During battery inspection, our factory trained technicians will look for cracks around the positive and negative posts as well as any growth on the battery case itself. These signs can be a sign of corrosion or a post seal failure.

Battery inspection also helps to catch any flaws in the construction of the battery that may compromise its performance and life expectancy. Internal flaws like delamination, variation in the cathode or anode thickness and anode overlap can reduce the capacity of a battery and lead to its failure.
Air Intake & Exhaust

Changing out your air intake and exhaust is a great way to make a big boost to your generator’s power. However, it’s important to get the right components and know what to look for when upgrading your system.

There are several recognizable brands that manufacture aftermarket products for your air intake and exhaust systems. Some of the more popular ones include MagnaFlow and AEM.

Air intake systems are the main part of your car’s engine that works to bring in oxygen and regulate how much it mixes with the burning fuel. Without this vital component, your vehicle would not be able to run and it could not produce enough power to propel you.

Exhaust systems also need to be treated properly for safety and environmental stewardship. This includes directing the exhaust away from combustible areas, and ensuring that the system is properly installed with vent terminals that are not obstructed.
Visual Inspection

When it comes to backup generator repair, visual inspection is an essential part of the process. It can help you ensure your equipment will work properly in an emergency, allowing you to continue operating until power is restored.

A visual inspection is a common quality control technique used by trained safety and quality inspectors, and can be performed at regular intervals to detect issues with equipment before they become expensive and difficult to fix.

Unlike more technologically advanced methods, visual inspection does not require any specialized equipment or specialized technicians. It focuses on looking for the smallest flaws that the human eye can see, making it an effective and affordable quality control method.

When it comes to performing a visual inspection, it’s important to document any defects you find so that you can ensure you’re taking all necessary steps to prevent them from happening again in the future. Luckily, you can easily use checklists and templates to make this process seamless.