How to Maintain Your Generator – Pro Tips from Able Sales Experts

Generators are one of those things you don't always think about until you need them. But when that time comes, you'll want to be sure your generator is ready to go. Whether you've got it for your home, business, or even a backup power source for emergencies, proper maintenance is key to making sure it's there when you need it. For those of you living in Townsville, Able Sales offers a range of reliable diesel generators that are built to handle our tough local conditions. You can check them out at https://www.ablesales.com.au/diesel-generators-townsville.html

1. Oil: The Lifeblood of Your Generator
Oil plays a big part in your generator's performance. It keeps the engine running smoothly, reducing wear and tear on all the moving parts. The thing to remember is, if you don't check the oil regularly and change it when needed, you might end up with an engine that just won't work when you need it most.

Every 100-200 hours of operation (or as suggested by your generator's manual), make sure to change the oil. If you check it and it's dark, gritty, or low, it's time for a change. Fresh oil helps keep things running smoothly, prevents overheating, and ultimately extends the life of your engine.

2. Air Filter Care: Keep it Clean
It might not always be on your radar, but the air filter in your generator is crucial to keeping the engine working at its best. If it gets clogged with dirt or dust, which happens quite quickly in dry, dusty places like Townsville, it makes the engine work harder than it needs to. This can lead to poor performance and even overheating.

It's an easy fix, though. If you've got a reusable filter, just clean it with soap and water, let it dry, and pop it back in. If it's a disposable one, replace it as needed. Regularly cleaning or replacing the air filter helps your engine breathe easier, which keeps it running at peak efficiency.

3. Fuel System: Don't Let It Sit
Fuel quality can make or break your generator. Over time, especially if your generator's been sitting unused for a while, the fuel can break down or develop moisture. This can lead to all kinds of issues, from difficulty starting up to poor performance.

Check your fuel lines and tank regularly for leaks, rust, or any signs of damage. If you're not using the generator for a while, it's best to drain the fuel or add a stabilizer. If the fuel sits too long, it can go stale and cause problems down the road. So, stay on top of it!

4. Battery Maintenance: Keep It Charged
Many modern generators come with batteries to make starting a lot easier. But if you don't keep that battery in check, it can be a real hassle when it's time to use the generator. Make sure to check the charge every so often, and keep the battery terminals clean and free from corrosion.

If you notice the battery isn't holding a charge or it's struggling to start the generator, it might be time to replace it. A simple check-up here can save you from a frustrating situation when the power goes out.

5. Use It or Lose It
Generators, like any machine, prefer regular use. Even if you don't need to use it all the time, running your generator for 15-20 minutes once a month is a great way to keep everything in good working order. This prevents the engine from getting stiff and the battery from losing charge.

Even though you might not need it often, letting it sit idle can lead to all sorts of issues. Just start it up every now and then to keep the system lubricated and ensure everything's ready for when you really need it.

6. Keep Your Generator Clean
This one's easy, but it goes a long way. A clean generator is a happy generator. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can build up, especially if you're using your generator outdoors. Left unchecked, this debris can clog up vents, which makes the generator work harder than it should.

Wipe it down every now and then with a damp cloth, or use a brush to clear off dirt and dust. If the generator's stored outside, give it a good cleaning to keep everything running efficiently. A little cleaning here and there goes a long way in preventing issues later on.

7. Stick to the Maintenance Schedule
Every generator has a maintenance schedule in the manual, and it's worth sticking to it. I know it's easy to put off maintenance until something breaks, but keeping up with the regular check-ups can save you a ton of hassle and money in the long run. The manual will tell you when it's time for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other important tasks.

A good rule of thumb is to keep a log of the work you've done, so you know when things were last checked. It'll make it much easier to stay on track, and you'll never be caught off guard by a breakdown.

8. Store It Right
If you're not using the generator for an extended period, proper storage is essential. Make sure to store it in a dry, cool place, and cover it to protect it from rain or dust. If you're storing it long-term, drain the fuel tank and carburetor to avoid any issues with stale fuel.

Before putting it away, give it a good clean and make sure it's dry. When it's time to pull it out of storage, a little bit of maintenance to make sure everything's in working order will make the startup much smoother.

Wrapping It Up
Maintaining your generator doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Regular oil checks, air filter cleaning, and fuel system inspections are simple tasks that will keep your generator running smoothly when you need it most. Just a little care goes a long way in preventing bigger problems and ensuring the generator is ready when the lights go out.

If you're in Townsville and looking for a new diesel generator, or you just need some advice on maintenance, Able Sales is your go-to place. Keeping up with these basic maintenance tips will help you get the most out of your generator, so it's ready whenever you need it.