If they are working properly, whole-home generators only power on when there is no electrical service in your home, which means it can be difficult to tell if there is an issue with the unit. Many generators do have a self-test feature, which could alert you if there are any problems with the unit. However, we still recommend that homeowners schedule regular professional maintenance for their generators in order to prevent problems from occurring when you really need the system to work. Here’s what you can do on your own to keep your standby generator maintained, and how to tell you should call in a professional.
What You Can Do on Your Own
After a storm, it’s so important to check on the state of your generator and see if it requires service. You should look for frayed wires, water damage, or any signs of external damage to the system, and call a technician if you notice anything seems off. Be sure to check on your system periodically to ensure the self-test feature is working as well.
Periodic oil and filter changes may be something you can do on your own as well. Check your owner’s manual for more information, or call an electrician if you are having trouble doing this on your own. A technician may also be able to complete these tasks during an annual maintenance visit.
When to Call in a Professional
If you notice anything unusual with your generator, you should make an appointment with an electrician right away. A generator is a major investment, and it is no good to you if it cannot run during a power outage. For the same reason, we recommend that you schedule annual maintenance regardless of the outward appearance of your generator. A quick tune-up and inspection can help you feel confident that you will have power when you need it most.
ACI Northwest is here to help with your home comfort needs or concerns in the Post Falls area. Please do not hesitate to contact us for helpful advice.