Keeping your generator maintained can prolong its life and avoid expensive repairs. Read about generator maintenance and the signs yours needs servicing.

Did you know the US generator sales market is expected to be worth almost $7 billion by 2028?

With so many options available, it can seem easy to simply buy a new generator whenever yours begins acting up, but what if you didn't have to? What if, with the proper generator maintenance, you could simply repair the one you already have? Not only can you save time, but also money and a lot of headaches.

Read on to learn seven of the biggest warning signs to be on the lookout for.

1. Trouble Starting

If you're having difficulty starting your generator, that could be a major sign of it needing maintenance. If it's your first time using it in a while, it's natural to assume some kind of difficulty, but if you notice it becoming a constant issue, it's smart to look into the problem further. It's usually something simple, like changing the oil or replacing a damaged part.

2. Low Power

When's the last time you checked on your generator's power flow?

If it's not providing as much power as it should, it might mean an issue with the master phase selector or the control panel.

This isn't a repair you can make on your own, though. It's best to call in a professional to take a look at the problem so you can get things up and running quickly.

3. Leaking Fluid

This one is pretty easy to spot. You'll either notice puddles of fluid with a film on top, or you might even hear dripping from the generator itself.

That filmy liquid is more than likely gas, so if you notice it it's important to take a few initial steps. First, move it to a well-ventilated area. Then, check all your hoses and fuel lines for cracking, tearing, or punctures to make sure everything is sound.

If all of these are good to go, then you should also check your storage pan. If that's gone faulty, it can sometimes cause leaks.

It's dangerous to operate a leaky generator, so finding the cause immediately is important.

4. Damaged or Faulty Parts

If your generator has been in storage for a long time, it's important to check all your components before turning the machine on.

Exterior damage is easy to spot, but you shouldn't assume everything is good to go with one glance. Start with checking your hoses, and then move to the wires and fuel lines to search for signs of rubbing or tearing. If you notice anything out of place, work to get it repaired before you turn everything on.

If you don't know the basics, OSHA's guide to portable generator safety is a good place to start.

If you're stuck in the middle of a storm, power outage, or another emergency, having your generator malfunction in the middle of it isn't going to be fun. Taking those few steps before you need it is going to be a big help later down the line.

Ideally, you should check your generator and perform necessary maintenance every six months.

If you need help making any repairs, don't hesitate to call out a professional.

5. Strange Sounds

Most generators are naturally loud, so it can be hard to distinguish which noises are normal versus uncommon, but it's still possible.

The noise you want to look out for the most is a rattling sound, as this can mean loose or broken components. Other noises to be cautious of are metal-on-metal sounds, loud banging, or a sputtering engine. To play things safe, just turn to a local professional anytime you notice a noise that sticks out among the rest.

It's always better to be safe than sorry.

6. Higher Upkeep Costs

If your generator is older, you're going to start noticing higher upkeep costs. This is simply because your generator is starting to lose its efficiency. The quality of mechanical components, like gears, belts, and other essential parts begins to deteriorate, and you're stuck with higher fuel costs.

Fuel efficiency is a great indicator of your generator's performance. If you find yourself constantly filling it up, this is a huge sign that your generator needs maintenance.

An experienced electrician or technician can easily find, diagnose, and fix all of the issues you're having, meaning decreased fuel costs and higher efficiency all around.

7. Age

The most obvious sign that your generator needs maintenance, though, is its age. Naturally, you can experience wear and tear as your machine ages, so it's important to keep up with regular maintenance costs.

If you have an older machine that's been neglected, you might be wary of replacing it altogether, but you might find that it's necessary. Once you have a new generator, though, you'll know what needs to be done to keep your machine up and running for many years to come.

It can also be helpful to schedule regular maintenance appointments with a professional as soon as you get the machine so you don't have to worry about it later. Then, as soon as the six-month point rolls around, you'll know that you're taken care of.

Don't Neglect Generator Maintenance

Generator maintenance might not seem that crucial, but you'd be mistaken. Proper upkeep is the single best way to help your generator last as long as possible and to help keep your home powered when an emergency strikes. Luckily, keeping an eye out for these signs can help you do exactly that.

If you notice problems arising with your generator, finding a Generac Dealer in Springfield, VA can be a big help. Contact us today to get started.

< Older Post Newer Post >

How Generac Generators Keep Your Home Running

By Vance Electric • February 28, 2025

Is there anything as disruptive as a power outage? Whether there's an issue with the power grid or a powerful storm, a blackout can prevent you from enjoying the comfort of your home and adversely affect your work. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that about one in four American households experience a power outage annually. Acquiring a Generac generator is a necessity if you want to avoid the inconvenience caused by an outage. Standby generators automatically detect outages, ensuring you don't sit in the dark or have the food in your freezer go bad. Let's explore Generac generators and why you need one in your home. How Generac Generators Work Installing a Generac standby generator ensures your home has backup power whenever necessary. The main types of generators are standby and portable. Generac generators function in the following ways: Detecting Power Outages These generators can come with a transfer switch that automatically monitors the flow of electricity in your home. When there is a power outage, the generator kicks in, supplying power to your home. A home Generac generator doesn't need you to connect any cables or physically switch it on. It will automatically supply your house with electricity, ensuring your appliances keep running. Continuous Running and Automatic Shutdown As a new generator owner , you'll realize that Generac generators run continuously as long as the power outage lasts. The generators are specifically designed to handle long run times and provide power for an extended period. They automatically shut down when the grid comes back on and go back to standby mode, acting as a reliable energy solution for future outages. Benefits of a Generac Generator Owning a Generac generator offers more benefits than just a continuous power supply. These generators can start running when the lights go out in under 30 seconds. The automatic function means you don't have to be home to turn it on. So, you will not incur any losses as your business or home will continue running smoothly. A Generac generator also adds value to your property and can help you get a high resale price if you decide to sell. Having a Generac generator can also reduce your homeowners' insurance premiums . Here are a few tips to extend your generator's life and optimize its benefits: Make preventive repairs Regularly inspect the battery Exercise the generator Test and replace the fuel Features of Generac Generators The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that Americans experienced about five and a half hours of power interruptions in 2022. Unexpected power outages can result in heavy financial losses resulting from missed work and perishable goods going bad . These features of Generac generators enhance their reliability and efficiency: User-friendly control features All-weather features Fuel efficiency and durability Smart monitoring with some generators having features such as Wi-Fi Further, modern generators minimize sound output, reducing noise pollution in your house. Talking with one of the best Generac dealers in Springfield can help you understand the features of any unit prior to the purchase. Generac generators run on liquid propane or natural gas; you don't need to refuel them since they will connect directly to your house's fuel line. This feature also makes them less expensive to maintain than generators that run on gas. How Long Do Generac Generators Run As a business or homeowner, nothing comes close to the disruption of a power outage. Although weather conditions are the leading cause of outages, the power grid can go down for various reasons. Consequently, having a standby or home generator guarantees continuous, uninterrupted power. They don't run on gasoline, meaning you don't have to continually refuel them when the power grid is off for a prolonged period. The main factors that determine how long a Generac generator will last include: The generator model The load capacity Fuel type Natural gas generators, such as Generac generators, can last indefinitely. The continuous gas supply from your home's fuel line keeps the generator running as long as necessary. However, portable generators may not run continuously as standby models. One of the reasons to buy a Generac standby generator is that it can run 24/7 regardless of weather conditions. Maintenance Tips for Generac Generators Generator maintenance is necessary for smooth, continuous running when you need backup energy. One of the first maintenance tips you should follow is to get maintenance service from a reputable commercial dealer . But how can you know that a company has a good reputation? Some of the indicators of a great dealer are: Great online reviews from previous customers Level of experience Certifications and qualifications of individual vendors Referrals and level of customer service The maintenance needs of generators will vary depending on the type or model. A Generac vendor can help you understand the warning signs your generator needs maintenance. However, you shouldn't wait for visible signs to appear before getting your generators regularly serviced. Some of the signs your generator needs maintenance work include: Low power output Difficulty starting Fluid leakage Strange noise and faulty parts Age is another sign that your generator needs maintenance. Like other machines, generators experience wear and tear, so it's only normal that they'll need greater maintenance as they get older. Who Needs Generac Generators According to the Climate Central Organization, power outages are more common across the United States. The main reason behind this is the changing climate, which caused approximately 83% of all power outages from 2000 to 2021. Getting a Generac generator is a priority for any homeowner or businessman. You need to understand that there are different types of generators , such as: Backup generators Portable generators Standby generators Industrial generators Choose a generator that can meet your needs. Backup generators are ideal if you experience short-term blackouts, whereas standby generators are better suited if you need a continuous power supply . Keep Your Home Running With Generac Generators Today Generac generators are the best bet if you want an uninterrupted power supply for your home or business. A standby generator can run for weeks and even months if necessary. Vancelectric has experience dating back to 1998, and we've gained a reputation built on providing high-quality Generac generators . We also offer installation and maintenance services to keep your unit running smoothly. Check out our website today to see all our energy solutions.