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It’s that time of year again. Hurricane season is here, and we Floridians know the drill: stock up on water,
board the windows, and make sure your generator is ready to go. From swaying palms to sideways rain
and sudden power outages, hurricane season can turn dark fast. That’s why a working generator is a
must-have, not a maybe.

Like any other piece of machinery, generators require regular maintenance to ensure uninterrupted
service when you need it the most.

Storms don’t wait, and neither should you. Learn about the maintenance tasks you can perform on your
own and when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Generator Best Practices

You don’t just have us install a standby generator and forget about it until the power goes out.
Maintenance of your unit is essential to keeping your generator in tip-top shape. The point of investing
in it was to have peace of mind when the unexpected happens, right?

Here’s what our local pros suggest:

Practice #1: Embrace regular testing. By running your generator periodically, you ensure it’s ready to
perform when you need it to.

Practice #2: Keep the generator’s environment clean and clear. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate,
potentially leading to blockages or overheating. A tidy setup not only enhances performance but also
prolongs your generator’s lifespan.

Practice #3: Develop a proactive maintenance schedule that takes into account how often you use your
generator, as well as the manufacturer’s recommendations.

By adhering to these best practices, you’re investing in your generator’s longevity and reliability.

Signs That Your Generator Needs Maintenance

Keeping an eye on your generator’s behavior is crucial to identifying when maintenance is needed. Here are some red flags that shouldn’t be ignored!

Unusual Noises: If your generator makes peculiar sounds, it could indicate an internal issue that
requires attention. Listen for any clunking, knocking, or whining that deviates from normal operation.

Slow Start-Up: A generator that hesitates to start or struggles to reach full power may be experiencing
mechanical or electrical issues.

Visible Wear and Tear: Inspect your generator for any visible signs of wear, such as unsecured wires,
rust, or damaged components. Addressing these issues early can prevent more serious problems. Now,
over time, there could be issues that aren’t visible to your eye; don’t live on the edge – call Ridge for an
affordable inspection by a pro.

Fluid Leaks: Check for any leaks, as leaking fluid might suggest a broken seal or connection.

Exhaust Smoke: Smoke or fumes from the exhaust can indicate an engine problem. Different colors of
smoke may point to varying issues; for example, blue smoke often relates to oil combustion.

Frequent Power Fluctuations: If your generator is unable to deliver a stable output, resulting in power fluctuations
dips or surges, it could be an indication of an electrical issue needing expertise.

If you notice any of these issues, protect your comfort and consult a professional technician.

Generator Maintenance: Prolonging Lifespan (and Power)

Proper maintenance ensures that your generator is ready to get into gear whenever you need it,
reducing the risk of unexpected power outages.

By conducting regular inspections, you are actively investing in your peace of mind and identifying and
addressing potential issues before they evolve into serious problems. Not only does simple maintenance
help to sustain your generator’s efficiency, but it also extends its lifespan. This investment is invaluable
during emergencies, ensuring you never lose your power.

Ultimately, committing to a proactive maintenance schedule mitigates the risk of being left in the dark.
It empowers you with the assurance that your generator is ready to keep the lights on and essential
appliances running, regardless of external power conditions.

Have Your Generator Ready for Emergencies

Adopting a structured maintenance routine is crucial to ensuring your generator is prepared to save the
day in an emergency.

You’ll want to start by establishing a comprehensive maintenance checklist. This roadmap will not only
aid you in keeping track of necessary tasks, but also prevent any crucial steps from being overlooked.

Here’s an easy-to-follow guideline that our professional electricians recommend:

Visual Inspections: Conduct a visual inspection of your generator’s exterior components, looking for any
signs of wear or leaks. Monitor fluid level, ensuring it meets the manufacturer’s recommended
specifications.

Monthly Maintenance: It’s vital to run your generator at least once a month. This exercise not only
verifies operational readiness but also helps lubricate the engine’s components.

Seasonal Checks: When necessary, replace your filters and check the battery condition and terminals.
Batteries can often be the silent troublemakers that prevent a generator from starting during an outage.

Regular Professional Servicing: An expert can perform diagnostics and intricate tests, evaluating
operational parameters such as voltage, current, and frequency output.

Integrating these maintenance activities into your routine will ensure reliability and peak performance
during unforeseen power outages, keeping your home a comfortable place to be during pesky power outages.

Keep your worries at bay and get expert generator servicing at Ridge Heating and Air Conditioning- your
trusted team of technicians keeping Panama City comfortable for over 40 years. Contact us today!