With longer, warmer days, spring is the perfect time for home maintenance, and this includes taking the time to ensure your backup power system is in prime condition. Timely generator maintenance will reduce the need for repairs, extend the lifespan of your equipment, and ensure that you have backup power when you need it most. While there are some things you can perform yourself, it’s also important to call in the professionals to take care of the following maintenance tasks.
Oil, Fuel, and Coolant Checks
Regular oil changes are crucial to your generator’s longevity. Dirty oil can lead to engine wear and premature failure, so your spring maintenance needs to include an oil and filter check. If necessary, your electrician can change both.
Diesel and gasoline generators also need fuel system checks as part of their spring maintenance. These checks can identify any leaks or other issues in the fuel system. A technician will also ensure that the fuel filter is still good and provide a replacement if necessary.
Coolant is another critical fluid for backup generators. While it needs to be replaced less frequently than oil or gas, your technician will check the generator’s coolant levels and quality. Keeping coolant levels topped off ensures that your generator does not overheat during operation, which could lead to serious motor issues.
Automatic Transfer Switch Testing
Trained electricians can also test your automatic transfer switch, or ATS. This process involves simulating a power outage to verify that there is a seamless transition between the utility power and the backup power supply. They will check to ensure that the ATS is performing correctly and that it toggles back to the utility power supply properly.
Clean Air Vents and Cooling Systems
Spring generator maintenance will also include an inspection of the ventilation system. Professionals will remove the debris and dust that accumulates inside your air vents and cooling fans. This will prevent overheating and maintain the proper circulation of air throughout your system. Optimal operating temperatures and ventilation will be tested and regulated. We use compressed air to blow out any accumulated dust from the vents and fans of your generator.
Load Bank Testing
Your maintenance team will conduct a load bank test on your backup power system. During this test, they will apply a simulated load that matches or exceeds the typical electrical load the system would handle in operation. This process helps identify any potential issues, ensuring the system can reliably support the required power load. Carefully evaluating how the system performs under these stress conditions can guarantee its readiness and efficiency.
Update Software and Firmware
Modern generators may also need software and firmware updates as part of routine maintenance in the spring. Your technician will check for updates on the firmware and software systems that control the backup power supply. By installing the most recent versions, the software will be optimized for monitoring and managing your uninterruptible power supply. This process is typically done through the manufacturer’s website to ensure that the downloads and installations are completed correctly.
Spring Cleaning for Electrical Systems
Take time this spring to invest in your backup power supply with professional generator maintenance. Keeping your generator in top shape will ensure that it lasts as long as possible and is ready to keep you powered up in an emergency. If you’re in Rochester, MN, contact the team at Paxton Electric to schedule generator service today.
