Power outages are disruptive and inconvenient, but they can be especially painful during severe weather events like storms or winter freezes. A home standby generator provides peace of mind, ensuring your lights stay on, your food stays fresh, and your essential appliances continue to run. But just like any piece of machinery, your generator needs regular maintenance to ensure it’s ready when you need it most. At Washington Generators, we understand the importance of reliable power, and we’re here to help you keep your Generac generator in top condition.
Why is Generator Maintenance So Important?
Generator maintenance isn’t just a good idea – it’s essential for continued functionality and reliability. Think of it as preventative care for your power system. Regular maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they escalate, preventing unexpected failures during a power outage. Investing in maintenance is an investment in your comfort, safety, and the longevity of your generator.
Here’s why regular maintenance is crucial:
- Optimal Performance: Regular servicing ensures your generator runs efficiently, delivering consistent power output when you need it. This is especially important during prolonged outages.
- Longevity: Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your generator, protecting your investment and ensuring it remains operational for years to come. With proper maintenance, we’ve seen generators over 20 years old still running reliably!
- Reliability: Addressing potential problems early dramatically increases the reliability of your Generac generator, reducing the risk of a frustrating and potentially dangerous failure. You don’t want to discover your generator isn’t working during a snow storm or bomb cyclone!
- Fuel Efficiency: A well-maintained generator operates more fuel efficiently, saving you money on operating costs.
- Readiness: Regular checks ensure your generator is ready to go at a moment’s notice, providing a dependable power source when the main grid fails. This is particularly important before storm season or the winter months.
- Warranty Eligibility: Regular maintenance is often required to maintain your warranty coverage. Don’t risk voiding your warranty by neglecting necessary upkeep.
What's Included in a Typical Maintenance Service?
While specific services may vary slightly between Generac Certified Professionals, a typical maintenance visit with Washington Generators includes:
- Performance test
- Oil and filter change
- Spark plug check and replacement
- Valve clearance check and adjustment
- Air filter check and replacement
- Firmware update
- Battery charge state check and cleaning
- Gas fitting inspection
- Vibration, noise, and leakage check
- Fuel plenum inspection (if applicable – older units)
- Enclosure louver cleaning
DIY Maintenance: Proceed with Caution
While some homeowners may prefer to perform maintenance themselves, Generac strongly recommend using a Generac Certified Service Professional such as Washington Generators. These professionals have the expertise and training to ensure the job is done correctly. If you choose the DIY route, always consult your owner’s manual and understand the potential risks.
- Maintenance Kits: You can purchase maintenance kits at generac.ordertree.com.
- Individual Parts: Individual parts like spark plugs and air filters are available at generacpowerproducts.com.
Maintenance and Your Warranty
Regular maintenance is not only crucial for reliability but also for maintaining your warranty. Keep records of all maintenance performed, as proof of service may be required for warranty claims. Generac warranties cover defects and premature part replacement, but some issues may fall under your homeowner’s insurance. Contact your insurance provider to ensure your generator is covered. If you’re unsure about your warranty level, check your Mobile Link account or contact Washington Generator’s service department.
Don’t wait for the next power outage! Schedule your generator maintenance today and ensure your home stays powered, no matter what. Contact Washington Generators for all your generator needs.