Having a whole-home generator that works reliably can be a literal lifesaver during power outages and emergency situations, especially if someone in the home relies on electrically powered medical equipment. Scheduling an annual inspection is one of the best ways to make sure your generator stays in good condition. A professional technician can look at the system’s critical components and perform tests to see whether it needs maintenance or repairs. Still, there may come a time when the unit needs attention before the next inspection. Here are the four top signs that indicate you need maintenance services.
The Unit Doesn’t Turn on During Outages
The first major clue to watch for is a generator that doesn’t turn on during an outage. The possible culprits for this type of problem can range from simple power connection issues to more serious electrical faults like a failed transfer switch. An electrician will be able to determine the exact cause using advanced diagnostic equipment and years of industry expertise.
You See Oil or Fuel Leaking From the Unit
The generator should never leak fuel or oil, and if it does, this most likely means it has a cracked hose, a degraded rubber seal or a failing gasket. Even if it’s just a drop or two, you need to call for service. If left unaddressed, an oil leak may eventually cause the engine to seize. Fuel leaks can create dangerous safety hazards by allowing flammable vapors to accumulate around the unit. An electrician will know whether to patch the leak or replace the faulty component.
The Warning Lights Are Flashing
Many of the generators manufactured today come with helpful warning lights that tell you when something is wrong. When you see one flashing, schedule service as soon as possible. If it’s an oil pressure or engine temperature light, turn the generator off. When you try to use the unit while it’s overheating or running with low oil pressure, this can cause severe damage to the engine. An electrician can hook the generator up to diagnostic equipment to determine the underlying cause of the warning light and determine how to best fix it.
The Unit Runs But Sputters
When the generator kicks on during an outage, it’s completely normal to hear a humming or steady engine sound. You may even notice a clicking noise; this is from the automatic transfer switch engaging. What you shouldn’t hear is sputtering or backfiring. These noises point to a clogged fuel line or dirty fuel filter, both of which have the potential to create erratic, dangerous drops in power that affect your home’s sensitive electronics and appliances. With this in mind, if the generator turns on but sputters, you should turn it off and schedule service.
Since generators connect to your home’s main electrical panel, most maintenance and repair work should be left to a professional. You don’t want to risk electrocuting yourself or accidentally damaging the electrical system. With regular upkeep, many whole-home generators can last up to 20 to 30 years or longer. When you need generator services in Flint, MI, contact Design Electric.
