Your standby generator’s engine is very similar to a car engine. Just like you wouldn’t expect your car to run smoothly without regular maintenance, your generator needs regular maintenance to run efficiently every time it starts.

The saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” definitely applies to generators. It is almost always cheaper, easier, and less stressful to maintain your generator than it is to repair a problem due to neglect. A scheduled generator maintenance program can be tailored to your needs and help give you peace of mind that your generator will be ready to go when you need it.

A generator maintenance program includes regularly-scheduled inspections during which a generator technician is able to identify minor problems with equipment and correct them before they cause major damage. This ensures your backup power supply is ready to perform when you need it most. Poorly maintained standby generators are more prone to failure, as with any mechanical system. This is why manufacturers require proper maintenance as a condition of the warranty. After all, what good is having backup power if it doesn’t work when you need it?

How to Choose a Generator Maintenance Program

How often do you need your generator?

If you live in an area with severe weather, infrastructure problems, or frequent blackouts, you likely use your generator somewhat often. The more frequently your generator starts and the longer it is in operation, greater the need for more frequent maintenance. For example, a customer who only uses their generator a few days out of the year may only need to service their generator annually, whereas a customer whose generator is used a few days a month may need to service their generator quarterly.

Is your generator for your home or your business?

If your generator is for your home, you want to ensure your safety and comfort when the power goes out. However, local or national codes may apply to commercial businesses with generators. For instance, many facilities fall under NFPA 110 guidelines. This standard covers electrical power in buildings and facilities in the event of a power failure. NFPA 110 covers installation, maintenance, operation, and testing requirements as they pertain to the performance of the emergency or standby power supply system (EPSS). If your business is required to follow specific codes, your maintenance agreement should be more comprehensive and include additional services such as load banking, fuel testing, and automatic transfer switch maintenance.

Generators providing power for healthcare services, data infrastructure, or security likely hold a higher liability if the power fails. These types of industries may need more frequent maintenance. This will help uphold a reputation and prevent a liability claim.

Who will perform the maintenance service?

The quality of the service is only as good as the technician performing the services. Generator technicians should be licensed electricians who receive continuous training and have the ability to service all types of generators. They should be able to respond to the most challenging onsite conditions.

The friendly professionals at Midwest Generator Solutions are experts in not only the installation and repair of generators, but also in the codes that govern their installation, so you can rest assured the job will be done quickly, affordably, and most of all, safely. As an authorized dealer of Generac generators, Briggs & Stratton generators, and Kohler generators, Midwest Generator Solutions brings you peace of mind with a full line of reliable products backed by world-class service and support. Don’t wait until the next storm hits. Let Midwest Generator Solutions help protect your business, home, and family with a generator maintenance program. Contact us today to get started!

A generator maintenance program from Midwest Generator Solutions includes:

• Replacement of the oil and air filters
• Replacement of spark plugs
• Inspection of the battery and replacement as needed
• Oil inspection and change
• Transfer switch test
• Testing of the static battery voltage
• Inspection of valves and adjustment as needed
• Flex connector inspection
• Inspection of battery cables and electrolyte level
• Cleaning of generator unit
• Verification of proper overall operation