Hazardous Signs Your Generator Needs Repair

Homeowners install home generators for a variety of reasons. Often, they want protection for critical appliances to continue running when their power goes out, like during a storm or when squirrels and critters have damaged electrical equipment. For example, a generator ensures sump pumps work, avoiding flood damage. Moreover, just keeping the lights on will keep everyone calm and provide peace of mind. However, all this requires your generator to be in working order at all times, so it's ready when you least expect and need it, in case an unprotected electrical wire goes down. You need to routinely check and maintain your generator, in case it needs repair.

Generators are built tough and can withstand a lot of use. If you follow a regular maintenance schedule and treat your equipment well, you will experience fewer needs for repair. Nonetheless, problems can still emerge over time. The last thing you want is to be caught unprepared and [literally] powerless. Check for these signs of generator problems:

1. Visual Damage – Look for any outward damage to the generator. Dents and cracks are possible signs of internal damage. Small damages may worsen over time, so be cautious and wary.
2. Electrical Problems – Over time, electrical wiring will become worn or corroded, buttons malfunction, and connections loosen. It is important to regularly inspect your unit, else it may even become a fire hazard.
3. Leaks – The older your generator gets, developing a gas or fluid leak is possible, either from the gas line or the unit itself. This will impact your generator's efficiency, functionality, and can become a toxic hazard to run. 
4. Start-Up Trouble – If your generator has problems starting, or struggles running, your generator may be facing wear and tear from aging or use that will degrade the unit.
5. Self-Test Alert – Today's generators can perform weekly self-tests and alert if there are problems with the unit that need attention. If your generator does not include this feature, it is important to run frequent manual tests, so you can fix problems early.

Generators are great when they work when the power goes out due to rodents, squirrels, and other critters getting into and damaging unprotected electrical lines and utility poles. For more information on protecting your electrical equipment to prevent blackouts in the first place, contact us today.