If you know how to choose a home generator, it’s time to learn some essential tips to keep it in good and well-maintained condition. It’s true that no matter which one you buy, a generator is always a little expensive, but at the same time, there’s good news: if you keep it maintained, it can last for you for decades.

Most people don’t opt for portable generators because they fear the added expenses, especially the ones for repairs and replacements. However, what these people don’t understand is that if they take care of their generators correctly and invest some time in maintenance, they won’t have to worry about those added expenses.

With unpredictable weather and potential power outages, choosing from a wide selection of portable generators is essential to provide emergency power when you need it most - keeping your home appliances running and lighting up both indoor and outdoor spaces during blackouts.

1- Purchase a backup or warranty generator

This is quite understandable, and most of you know already that investing in a warranty is essential to save yourself from spending any money if something goes wrong with the generator. Understand the coverage you are getting; it can be complete or partial. Furthermore, if you want to control your overall home insurance cost, you should also opt for a backup generator.

2- Prevent the motor from burning out

Lighter cords increase the voltage, leading to the risk of your motor burning out. You need to make sure that you are using heavy-duty cords for lesser voltage, and the cord needs to belong too, especially if you don’t want the generator to make a lot of noise then you need to invest in a longer cord because that’s the only way you can get uninterrupted sleep.

3- Power up your generator after every three months

The manufacturers of all the generators recommend that people charge up the battery and power it with electric shock at least every three months. You need to ensure that your electric starter is working because the last thing on Earth would be that you discover that it isn’t working when you need it in an emergency.

4- Filling up the tank

One of the most important things you need to do to avoid damage to your generator is to keep it filled with gas at any cost. When your generator runs out of gas, all the problems start. You don’t have to let that stage come when the electric load in your home sucks the magnetic field from the generator all by itself. So, on and off, keep checking that there’s enough gas in your generator to start correctly without any hassle.

5- Always buy from a reputable company

It’s not a maintenance tip as such, but yes, it does matter a lot. The company that you buy the generator from should be a reputable one, and it must provide you a quality generator that justifies the money that you will be paying. Several companies out there manufacture generators, but not all of them are worth your trust and money. So be careful, do your homework and buy from the right place.

 Here are some tips for maintaining a portable generator:

Check the air filter

Air filters vary by engine, but when they get dirty and can't draw enough clean air, it's time to replace them.

Check the fuel system

Regularly check the supply lines, return lines, and filters. Make sure the lines aren't rubbing against anything.

Check the spark plugs

Gas-powered generators won't start if the spark plug doesn't fire properly. Check for buildup and damage on the spark plug.

Check the engine oil

It's a good idea to check the engine oil before starting the generator.

Stock up on extra oil

For small standby generators, you'll need replacement oil after 24 hours of continuous use. After that, you'll need replacement oil every 50–60 hours of operating time.

Use heavy-duty extension cords

Generators create a lot of energy, so make sure the cords are heavy-duty and have a thick enough wire gauge to handle the generator's current.

Change the oil regularly

Fresh oil cools, cleans, and lubricates the engine so that all of its parts can work together efficiently.

Store the generator carefully

After each use, empty the fuel tank and double-check that the fuel lines are also empty. Store the generator in a cool, dry place to decrease rusting and extend its life. 

Here are some other tips for maintaining a portable generator:

  • Keep the generator clean and covered when not in use
  • Purchase and keep backup fuel and filters
  • Monitor the generator's wattage capacity 

Conclusion

With all these tips in your mind and a little investment of your time, you will be able to keep your generator in the best possible condition for a long time. Just charge the battery properly, take care of the plugs and filters and fill up the gas tank on and off if it’s in use.