Generators are essential for providing backup power during outages, but using them correctly ensures safety, efficiency, and longevity. By following these 12 generator tips, you can ensure that your generator is ready to provide power when you need it.
1. Proper Generator Sizing is Key
Select a generator size that meets your specific power needs. Make a list of all appliances and devices you plan to run and calculate their total wattage. Ensure the generator can handle the startup and running wattage of these devices. Using a generator that is too small can lead to overloading, while one that is too large may save fuel and be unnecessarily costly.
2. Regular Generator Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your generator running smoothly. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, which typically includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks. Keeping these components in good condition helps prevent breakdowns and extends the life of your generator.
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3. Use Fresh Fuel in Your Generator
Always use fresh fuel and consider adding a fuel stabilizer if the generator will be stored for more than a month. Old or stale fuel can clog the carburetor and cause starting issues. Using fresh, stabilized fuel ensures optimal performance and reduces the likelihood of engine problems.
Fuel needs to be treated or stabilized when it is fresh from the pump. Old or stale fuel cannot be made fresh with the addition of additives. Fuel can go bad within days if not stabilized or treated. Non-Ethanol Fuel is recommended for generators and small engines. Ethanol attracts moisture and is corrosive. It will damage metal surfaces and rubber fuel hoses over time.
4. Store Your Generator Safely
Store your generator in a dry, well-ventilated area away from potential fire hazards. Ensure it is easily accessible in case of an emergency, but keep it protected from moisture, which can cause rust and electrical issues. A generator cover can provide extra protection from dust and weather.
5. Always Operate Generators Outdoors
Generators produce carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that is odorless and colorless. Always operate your generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from windows, doors, and vents, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Place it at least 20 feet away from your home and use a carbon monoxide detector inside your house for added safety.
6. Manage Your Generator's Electrical Load
Avoid overloading the generator by managing the electrical load carefully. Start by turning on high-wattage appliances first, then add other devices gradually. Understanding the power draw of each appliance helps in balancing the load and prevents tripping the generator's circuit breaker.
7. Fuel Shutoff Before Storing Your Generator
Before storing your generator, use the fuel shutoff valve to run the carburetor dry. This prevents fuel from gumming up the carburetor, which can cause starting problems after extended periods of inactivity. Draining the fuel from the tank can also help reduce the risk of fuel-related issues.
If the carburetor bowl has a drain plug, drain the fuel from the bowl after shutting off the fuel supply. Even though the fuel supply is shut off, some fuel can remain in the carburetor bowl. This remaining fuel can cause future issues if not removed before storage of longer than 30 days.
The Fuel Drain Plug is usually mounted at a 45-degree angle. Do Not Remove the bolt that is directly underneath the carb bowl at the center. This holds the bowl to the upper portion of the carburetor and the carburetor gasket. If not properly reinstalled, fuel can leak from the bowl when the fuel supply is turned on. Seek professional assistance before removing the carburetor bowl if you are not sure you are doing this correctly.
8. Check the Generator's Oil Level
Regularly check the oil level before each use. Running a generator with low oil can cause severe engine damage. Keep spare oil on hand and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for oil type and viscosity. Some generators have a low-oil shutdown feature to prevent damage—make sure yours does.
If you are running a Natural Gas or Propane operated engine, the oil needs to be changed more often because these fuels burn hotter than gasoline. You also have a 20% reduction in output power with Natural Gas and a 15% reduction in output power with Propane. This needs to be considered when correctly sizing your generator.
9. Practice Safe Refueling of Your Generator
Always turn off the generator and let it cool down before refueling to prevent any risk of fire or explosion. Refueling a hot generator can ignite spilled fuel. Use a proper fuel container and take care to avoid overfilling the tank.
10. Test Run Your Generator Regularly
Even if you do not need it, run your generator every few months to keep it in good working order. A regular test run keeps the battery charged, ensures the engine remains lubricated, and helps identify any potential problems before you need the generator for an emergency.
11. Consider Generator Noise Levels
Generators can be noisy, so it is a good idea to place them in a location where the noise will not disturb you or your neighbors. Many generators have noise reduction features, but placing the generator on a solid surface or using a sound-dampening enclosure can further reduce noise.
12. Repair Your Generator With Genuine Parts
When performing repairs or replacing generator parts, use genuine parts recommended by the generator manufacturer. Using the correct parts helps maintain the generator's performance, reliability, and safety. This applies to everything from oil filters to spark plugs and air filters.
For more than 50 years, Bozeman Distributors has proudly served as Baton Rouge's leading provider of quiet and environmentally friendly Honda and Winco generators. Our expert sales team is here to help you choose the perfect generator to meet your specific needs. We provide support with setup, servicing, and safe operation. As a Honda Premier Dealership, we offer unmatched expertise and top-tier performance training to ensure you receive the best service possible.