We’re having a more typical New England winter this year, and many people have had to use their generators at least once. As a NH electrician, we spend a lot of time covering how to prepare your generator for the winter and maintain it after winter is over, but what about during the winter? It’s a relief when your standby generator kicks in for the first time, but you want to ensure that it works every time you need it.
Here are some tips from a NH electrician to keep your generator up and running all winter long.
Set Up Automatic Tests
The best way to ensure that your generator is working properly is to run it periodically. An electrician can set up automatic tests to confirm that your generator is ready to run when you need it. Typically, these tests run for 10 to 15 minutes and occur once a week. If the generator does not turn on for the test or something else goes wrong, your electrician can repair it before the next storm hits.
Use Cold-Weather Fluids
A generator is an engine that requires certain fluids to run, including fuel, oil, and coolant. Cold temperatures and inactivity can affect the performance of the engine and the consistency of these fluids. You should add a stabilizer to the fuel to prevent deterioration and microbial growth. You also want to ensure that you use oil of the correct viscosity and a coolant mixture suitable for cold temperatures.
Check the Transfer Switch
The transfer switch automatically transfers the electrical load from the utility power grid to your backup generator in the event of a power outage. You want to keep an eye out for any loose connections that could prevent the switch from working. Periodically testing the transfer switch will also confirm that it is working properly. If you have any concerns about the transfer switch, it’s best to have an electrician take a look at it.
Licensed NH Electrican | Chamberlin Electric
When you need generator maintenance, you need a generator expert. Chamberlin Electric is a licensed Generac dealer, and all our electricians are trained in installation and maintenance. You won’t find a better or more experienced team in NH or MA for all your generator maintenance needs.
