Abacus Austin / Alan's Blog

October 30, 2024
By Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electrical
Posted In: House Generators

Storm season can bring unpredictable weather, power outages, and other disruptions that make having a reliable backup generator essential. At Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning, and Electrical, we know how important it is to have your Generac generator ready when severe weather strikes. Preparing your generator now ensures it will be in top condition to keep your home powered, safe, and comfortable through any storm. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare your Generac generator for storm season, covering everything from maintenance to testing and safety.

1) Inspect the Generator Thoroughly

The first step in preparing your Generac generator for storm season is a thorough inspection. This will help you catch any potential issues before they turn into costly repairs or affect the generator’s performance during a storm.

What to Check:

• Examine the exterior for any visible signs of damage, such as dents, rust, or loose panels.
• Inspect fuel lines for any signs of wear, cracks, or corrosion.
• Look at electrical connections and wires, checking for any fraying or loose connections.
• Review the battery connections and cables for signs of corrosion, as this can impact the generator’s ability to start.

If you notice any of these issues, address them promptly or schedule a service with one of our professional technicians to ensure your generator is in optimal condition.

2) Test the Battery and Replace if Needed

The battery is essential to start the generator, especially in automatic models like many Generac units. Before storm season, test the battery to ensure it’s fully charged and functioning properly.

How to Check the Battery:

• Use a multimeter to test the battery voltage. It should be at or above 12.6 volts for most models.
• If the voltage is low or if the battery is over three years old, it may be time to replace it.

A weak battery can lead to startup issues right when you need the generator most, so it’s best to replace it proactively if it shows any signs of wear.

3) Change the Oil and Filters

Like any engine, a Generac generator requires regular oil changes and new filters to keep running smoothly. Fresh oil and clean filters reduce engine wear and help your generator perform at its best.

Steps for Changing Oil and Filters:

• Check the oil level and top it off if it’s low.
• Refer to the manufacturer’s guide to determine the type and amount of oil needed.
• Replace the oil filter at least once a year or sooner if recommended in your owner’s manual.
• Check and replace the air filter as needed, especially if the generator has been running frequently.

Changing the oil and filters not only extends the generator’s lifespan but also ensures it will run without interruption during an emergency.

4) Check Fuel Levels and Stabilize the Fuel

Keeping your generator fueled and ready to go is critical during storm season. Generac generators can run on various fuel types, so it’s essential to ensure your fuel source is prepared.

For Gasoline Generators:

• Make sure the fuel tank is full, and add a fuel stabilizer if the fuel has been stored for a long period.
• If the fuel is more than a month old and hasn’t been stabilized, consider draining and replacing it to prevent engine issues.

For Propane or Natural Gas Generators:

• Check the gas lines and connections for leaks or wear, and ensure there’s an adequate fuel supply.
• Schedule a refill if needed, or confirm your connection to the home’s natural gas line is intact.

Fuel stabilizers are particularly important, as stale fuel can cause performance issues and even damage your generator’s engine.

5) Test the Generator's Auto-Start Function

Generac generators are often equipped with an automatic start feature, which kicks in as soon as the main power goes out. Testing this function is essential to ensure it activates properly during a storm.

Steps to Test Auto-Start:

• Switch off the main circuit breaker in your home to simulate a power outage.
• Wait for the generator to automatically start, which should happen within seconds.
• Once running, reconnect the main power to confirm the generator shuts off automatically as well.

This test ensures the auto-start feature is functioning properly, preventing surprises when the power goes out.

6) Run a Full-System Test

To ensure that your Generac generator can handle your home’s power demands during an outage, you must conduct a full load test. This involves running the generator while powering your home to see how well it performs under typical storm load conditions.

How to Run a Full-System Test:

• Start the generator and gradually add electrical loads by turning on appliances, lights, and other essential devices.
• Monitor the generator to ensure it powers everything smoothly without issues.
• Listen for any unusual sounds, like knocking or sputtering, and check the system for signs of overheating.

This test can reveal any issues with the generator’s load capacity, helping you avoid disruptions when you need reliable power the most.

7) Keep the Surrounding Area Clear

Your generator’s surroundings play a significant role in its performance. Ensure that the area around the generator is free of debris, leaves, and other obstructions that could impede airflow or pose a fire risk.

What to Do:

• Clear away any debris, overgrown grass, or vegetation that might block the generator’s vents.
• If the generator is housed in an enclosure, make sure the vents are unobstructed for proper cooling and ventilation.
• Consider adding a weatherproof cover to protect the generator from heavy rain or flying debris, but avoid covering it too tightly to ensure proper ventilation.

A clear and clean area around the generator keeps it safe and allows it to function at peak efficiency, even during rough weather.

8) Schedule Professional Maintenance

While you can handle many maintenance tasks yourself, scheduling a professional maintenance check with Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning, and Electrical provides additional peace of mind. Our technicians can perform a thorough inspection, troubleshoot potential issues, and complete any needed repairs to ensure your Generac generator is fully prepared for storm season.

What a Professional Maintenance Check Includes:

• Full inspection of all electrical connections and components
• Testing of the automatic transfer switch (ATS) and other essential systems
• Comprehensive load testing and fuel assessment
• Battery health check and replacement if needed

Routine professional maintenance can extend the life of your generator and keep it in top working order when you need it most.

9) Test Regularly and Update Your Plan

Once your generator is storm-ready, remember to test it regularly throughout the season. A monthly checkup keeps everything in top shape. It helps you catch issues early, giving you the confidence that your home is protected.

Additionally, consider creating an emergency plan for your family that includes your generator operation instructions, essential contacts, and steps to take in case of prolonged outages. Having a plan in place brings peace of mind and helps your household handle storm situations with ease.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your Generac generator for storm season takes a little effort, but it’s worth it when you know your home will stay powered during unexpected outages. By following these steps and performing regular maintenance, you can count on your generator to perform when it matters most. For any questions or professional assistance, Abacus Plumbing, Air Conditioning, and Electrical is here to help keep your generator in peak condition. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance check or learn more about our backup generator services.