
You hope you won’t ever need to use your generator, but when the power goes out, you need it to work reliably. Like most machines, generators don’t like sitting idle, so it’s crucial to run weekly tests to ensure they start up. If generators aren’t well-maintained or allowed to sit idle for weeks or months, things can quickly go wrong.
Battery corrosion and fuel system issues are two common reasons for calling a generator maintenance service technician, but other things can go wrong, too. If you’ve noticed any of the following signs, it’s time to call in a professional.
A bad battery is the most likely reason for starting problems, although clogged filters and dirty spark plugs can also be culprits. If the generator is under warranty, call out the professionals. If the warranty has expired and you feel comfortable tinkering with the engine, here’s what to look at:
If you don’t feel comfortable performing repairs or have never repaired a generator before, it’s critical to call a professional.
A noise you haven’t heard before is a sign your generator needs some attention. A light rattling might be caused by a loose screw or cover, but it could also indicate a more significant problem. If a component has worked loose, tighten it up. If you find the problem comes back after a few weeks or months, schedule an inspection.
Deeper or louder grinding or knocking noises are definite indicators of problems and should be addressed immediately, as they could mean a bearing is failing or that the engine is low on oil. If you check the oil level and find it okay, it’s time to have a professional take a closer look.
If the natural gas or propane bill is higher than expected, it may be that your standby generator’s fuel consumption is rising. Assuming it’s not running longer and you haven’t increased the electrical load on the alternator, the most likely reason is a blocked air filter, causing it to run rich. A second possibility is dirty or fouled spark plugs, which can also be caused by a blocked air filter.
Less often, increased fuel consumption can be caused by problems with the fuel pressure regulator, the engine running at the wrong speed, or leaks in the inlet or exhaust systems. It’s also possible for sensor faults to lead to increased fuel consumption.
If you’re comfortable replacing the air filter, start there. If that doesn’t solve the problem, or you’re unsure how to repair it, call the professionals.
Leaks can be either oil or water/coolant, depending on whether the generator is liquid-cooled. In both cases, leaks are bad news, and using the generator could cause serious damage. Call for professional help immediately!
Before our homes were filled with delicate electronics, unstable output from a generator would show up as bulbs brightening or dimming unexpectedly. Today, while this remains a symptom of generator problems, fluctuating voltage and current can cause costly damage and even pose a fire risk.
The most likely cause of unstable output is a faulty voltage regulator. Fuel system faults are the runner-up, but problems with the controls are also a possibility. These can all be difficult to troubleshoot, so if your generator is misbehaving like this, have an expert take a look.
Unusual smells often result from overheating. This overheating may result from something rubbing against a moving part, which you may be able to see and fix yourself, but it’s more likely to come from increased internal friction.
If there’s no obvious cause, shut down the generator and call for service.
A standby generator needs regular servicing to keep it running efficiently, reliably, and safely. Scheduling generator maintenance once a year means an experienced technician will perform a thorough inspection and replace filters, oil, and any other failing or near-failing components.
Sometimes we get asked if this is necessary if the generator hasn’t run in a while. The answer is an emphatic yes!
Machines like to be used. If they stand idle, parts can start to corrode, fluids can break down, and seals can dry out. Then, when you find you need the generator, it might refuse to start. So, by scheduling regular generator service, you can be confident it will start when needed.
Most big problems start out small. When you find them early, they’re easier and less expensive to fix. That’s why, if anything about your generator looks, sounds, or smells abnormal, you need to get it looked at sooner rather than later. Additionally, annual maintenance is required to ensure your warranty isn’t voided.
If you need maintenance or aren’t sure when your Generac generator was last maintained, Budget Electric is here to help. We’ve been in business for over 30 years, and we always put the customer at the center of everything we do. Our technicians are well-trained, highly experienced, and licensed, so you can trust us for honest advice.
We offer two renewable Generac generator maintenance plans, and if you’re an avid DIYer, we even sell maintenance kits with all components necessary for maintaining your own generator.
Contact us today to purchase a maintenance plan. If you’re experiencing an emergency, please call (586) 925-9187, and we’ll send a technician out immediately.