Portable Generator Maintenance
Generators are often out of sight - out of mind, left in the corner of the shed until the power goes out. Unfortunately, because they are often neglected, they tend not to start when you need them most! These little guys can be a real life-saver when you have a long power outage and keeping them in good shape is important!
Generator maintenance is actually very simple. There are a few things you need to do from time to time to keep the unit running well:
1) Exercise the generator regularly. Once a month, start the generator and let it warm up to operating temperature (about 10 minutes). When it is warm, put a load on the generator that is about 1/2 the rated output. This can be a small space heater, a couple of halogen work lamps, etc. Run the generator with the load for another 10 minutes, and then let the engine run without a load for 1 minute to cool down before shutting it off. It is also helpful to use a DVM (voltmeter) to measure the output voltage to make sure the generator is still functioning within the rated specs.
2) Use a fuel-saver. Fuel that sits in the generator's tank for years will likely cause very hard starting, and may in fact not even burn well enough for the engine to run. Using a fuel-additive that keeps the fuel fresh in the tank is one way to make sure that the generator will start more easily and run more smoothly when it's needed. Fuel-saver additives are available for about $5 at most auto parts stores.
3) Regular oil changes. Even if the generator doesn't get used much, you should change the oil once a year. Oil tends to break down over time, and age can affect the lubrication qualities of most oil.
4) Check the air filter, spark arrestor, spark plug, and other serviceable parts at least once a year. Also, give the generator a good visual inspection to make sure nothing is out of place, loose, or damaged. You don't want to find out the fuel line is cracked when you are in the middle of a huge storm!
5) Protect the generator. Keep the generator in your garage or shed - don't leave it outside exposed to the elements unless it has a suitable shelter. Water, snow, humidity, wind, dust, and the sun will cause the generator to wear out very fast and will likely cause it not to operate properly. Treat it like any other valuable piece of equipment you own.
Finally, when you are having a long term power outage (more than 12 hours) be sure to check the oil on the generator often. And never run the generator with a load that is at 100% or more of its rated capacity. You can use the generator to its peak rating for a very short time, and its 100% rating for a little while, but taxing your generator by running large loads on it for extended periods will shorten its life considerably!
I hope you found this article informative and interesting. Hopefully, the next time the power goes out, your little generator will be ready to go!
