Generators are a crucial backup power source for homes and businesses, making sure you never have to worry about outages disrupting your life or operations. However, like any piece of equipment, a generator requires regular maintenance to perform efficiently and reliably. Without proper maintenance, even the best generator can let you down when you least expect it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential tips for keeping your generator in top shape, year-round.
Tip #1: Perform Regular Inspections
Keeping an eye on your generator between scheduled maintenance sessions can help catch small issues before they turn into bigger ones. Our technicians will perform a more detailed inspection during your scheduled maintenance visit, but these quick visual checks can help keep things running smoothly in the meantime. Here’s what you can look for:
- Leaks: Look for fuel, coolant, or oil leaks around the unit.
- Corrosion & Rust: Metal components exposed to moisture can degrade over time.
- Loose or Worn Parts: Bolts, belts, and hoses should be secure and in good condition.
Tip #2: Change the Oil and Filters
Just like a car, your generator’s engine oil and filters need to be changed regularly. Dirty oil can cause overheating and excessive wear on internal components. As a general guideline, oil and filter changes should happen every 50 to 200 hours of operation or at least once a year for standby generators, though it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. During your maintenance visit, our technicians will replace the oil, oil filter, and fuel filter to keep your generator in peak condition.
Tip #3: Keep the Battery in Top Condition
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons generators fail to start during an outage. To prevent this, our technicians will:
- Test battery voltage monthly using a multimeter.
- Clean terminals to remove corrosion and ensure a strong connection.
- Replace batteries every 2-3 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Tip #4: Run the Generator Regularly
To keep your generator in good working order, it’s important to run it for 15–30 minutes at least once a month under a load. This helps keep the engine lubricated, prevents fuel system issues, and allows fluids to circulate properly by reaching operating temperature. While it’s running, listen for unusual noises and watch for smoke—both can be signs of potential problems. Regular testing like this ensures your generator is ready to perform when you need it most.
Tip #5: Monitor Coolant and Fuel Levels
Generators need proper coolant and fuel levels to run efficiently. You can check coolant levels monthly and top them off as needed, especially in warmer months. If your generator isn’t used often, it’s important to use fresh fuel and add a stabilizer to prevent buildup or degradation. During scheduled maintenance, our technicians will also inspect the radiator for any blockages or leaks to ensure everything stays in working order.
Tip #6: Keep the Generator Clean and Clear
A clean generator runs more efficiently and is easier to maintain. You can take care of a few simple tasks between service visits or call Commander and we’ll handle it for you:
- Remove debris and dust to prevent overheating.
- Ensure ventilation areas are clear for proper airflow.
- Check the exhaust system for blockages or damage.
- Keep the area free of leaves, snow, and other obstructions.
Tip #7: Schedule Professional Maintenance
While regular DIY maintenance is essential, having a professional inspect your generator ensures optimal performance. Working with a certified technician from Commander Power Systems guarantees that your generator will always be ready to perform. With our maintenance agreement, one of our expert technicians will:
- Perform load bank testing to simulate real-world power needs.
- Inspect internal components and diagnose hidden issues.
- Update firmware or software.
- Ensure compliance with local regulations and safety codes.
A well-maintained generator provides peace of mind, knowing you have reliable backup power during emergencies. At Commander Power Systems, we specialize in professional generator maintenance, servicing residential and commercial clients with expert care and white-glove service. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance service—you’ll thank yourself later!
