You may not give your generator a second thought until a power outage leaves you in the dark. Taking the time to inspect your generator on a sunny spring Saturday will prepare you for any outages ahead.
Check the Fuel for Hidden Dangers
Look at the fuel that has been sitting in the tank all winter long. Gasoline can actually start to break down and turn into a sticky mess in as little as 30 days. This can clog up the internal parts of your engine. If you try to run your generator with old, gummy fuel, the engine might stall or run unevenly. This can create a fire hazard if the unit starts to overheat. You should check to see if you added a stabilizer back in the fall. If the gas smells like sour paint, it is time to drain it and start fresh.
Clear Away the Nesting Residents
As spring really takes hold, the mice, spiders, and other critters will be in search of a place to make themselves at home. The generator housing is like a luxury hotel for them. This is dangerous because these small animals like to chew on the wire insulation, or they will pack nesting materials into the cooling vents. Trying to start the generator in this condition could create a fire hazard.
If you check inside the machine and notice unwanted guests that made themselves at home, call a professional for help straight away. They can repair the damage.
Test the Oil and Spark Plugs
A generator needs fresh oil. Over the winter, moisture can get inside the engine and mix with the oil. It will look like milky coffee instead of the clear amber liquid it should be. Running an engine with bad oil causes the metal parts to grind together. This creates enough friction to permanently damage the motor. You should also pull out the spark plug to see if it is covered in black soot or if the gap at the tip is burnt away. If your spark plug is dirty, the engine will struggle to start.
Find the Right Spot for Safe Operation
Check the area around your generator to see if anything is interfering with its operation. For instance, bushes may have grown too much, or firewood may be piled up too close to the machine, which will interfere with its ability to dissipate exhaust fumes. You need at least 5 feet of open space all around the unit so that the poisonous gases can blow away into the yard instead of seeping into your open windows. If you notice that your generator is sitting in a low spot where puddles can form, move it to a higher, drier location to avoid any risk of electric shock.
If you have concerns or require generator maintenance, contact Pioneer Generators in Nashville, TN.