Storing Your Generator
Living in Florida, generators are a must for both homeowners and businesses during hurricane season. Florida’s weather can be very dangerous and has a reputation of leaving its residences without electricity for extended periods of time. On the other hand, you don’t need a generator on hand for everyday use. Here at Anchor Electric, we would like to keep you informed on how to safely store your generators so that they will be ready for use when needed:
- Check the oil monthly. During checking the oil levels, be sure to note if there are any oil leaks from your generator. Your oil levels should be topped off which usually only requires a couple of teaspoons.
- Before you store your generator away, empty the tank from gas. It can be a major fire hazard to store your generator with the flammable substance. Gasoline also has the ability to damage the engine of the generator when it spoils from staying inside it for prolonged periods of time. Once you empty your fuel tank, it is important to pour about a cup of non-ethanol and start the generator and let it run out. This will ensure that there isn’t a harmful gas residue left behind.
- A monthly inspection of any damaged parts is important in maintaining your generator. If you notice anything that may be damaged, it is crucial to repair the part right away. If you don’t repair it, the damage could become worse than it already is and make your generator unusable or dangerous. The parts that you should check monthly include:
-
- Switches
- Fuel tank
- Hoses
- Handles
- Wheels
- Spark arrestor
When storing your generator, make sure you clean it off of any debris or dirt build up. Areas to wipe down would include the carburetor, cooling air slots, engine controls, muffler, and springs. Your generator should be free of any oil or fuel on the surfaces. If your generator is stored without being cleaned first, it can lead to corrosion and increase the likelihood of catching on fire when you use it at a later date.
Here at Anchor Electric, safety is always our top priority. If you are unsure of how to properly care for your generator, we offer a maintenance free option for your portable generators. Our program will include installing the correct outlet, storing your generator for you, monthly maintenance, and hooking it up within 24 hours of being called. If this option sounds like something that will suit your needs, spaces are filling up fast so call the office today at 386-313-6211 to find out more!