Preparing your generator for winter storms is a key part of staying warm in Massachusetts. You never know when a winter storm will hit, so you need to prepare for the worst-case scenario and be ready. There are several steps to take to ensure your generator is ready to keep you warm when the temperatures drop.
We’re professional electricians in Milton, MA, Crowe Electric, and we want to keep you and your family safe. Keep reading to learn how to prepare for cold weather.
Prepare for Winter in Milton, MA, With a Maintenance Check
The best way to start preparing your generator for winter storms is to schedule a maintenance check with a trusted electrician. Even if you inspect your generator yourself, you should still seek a professional’s opinion so they can ensure there won’t be any mishaps or malfunctions. An electrician can spot signs of damage that you might miss since they know the ins and outs of generators.
Look for Damage and Wear and Tear
If you choose to inspect your generator yourself, start by looking for signs of wear and tear. This will include:
- Cracks and other damage
- Broken or missing pieces
- Rust or other corrosion
- Excessive dust
- Debris build-up
Removing debris should be easy, but call an electrician for everything else, as they may need to repair or replace parts.
Change Out Dirty Filters and Oil
Before revving up the generator for signs of life, be sure to change out filters and oil first. Dirty filters render inefficient machines, and they won’t accomplish much, but a clean filter gives the system a clean slate with which to work.
Generators can’t work with dirty oil, so change it out before winter arrives. It’s dirty work, but an electrician can do it for you on a maintenance visit if you don’t want to do it yourself. Make sure you have a low-viscosity oil for the best winter performance.
Plug It in and Check the Power
Make sure you know how to use generators and heaters safely before you run yours. Check to make sure all the parts are in good condition and that you’ve changed the oil and filter and removed debris and dust before turning it on.
If the generator struggles to sputter to life, you will need to call an electrician to assess the issue and repair it.
Stock Up on Winter-Approved Fuel
A crucial component of preparing your generator for winter storms in Milton, MA, includes procuring winter-friendly fuel. Whether you use diesel, propane, or natural gas, there are winter versions that are more resistant to cold weather and will function much better than the regular version.
In addition to fuel, don’t forget stabilizers. Stabilizers keep your fuel in good condition while it sits idle, so if the power-killing storm doesn’t arrive until February, you can be confident that your generator will be ready to go. Always keep fuel and stabilizers in storage so you aren’t caught off guard when the roads are covered by snow.
Protect the Generator From Milton, MA, Winters
There are a few extra steps you can take to ensure your generator can hold up to the cold weather, including:
- Cleaning out the exhaust system: Electricians can handle this on maintenance checks, but be sure to do it if you check the system yourself. Built-up exhaust, snow, or other debris can lead to carbon monoxide backing up into your home.
- Using heaters and cold weather kits: Anything exposed to the elements is at risk of freezing over. Battery warmers and engine block heaters will prevent your system from freezing up.
- Testing the generator in the cold: Give your system a test run in cold weather to ensure it runs smoothly before it’s put to the test.
- Clearing the path: Keep dead leaves and snow cleared away from your generator so it doesn’t get clogged or frozen.
Set Up Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Even with proper maintenance and preparation, carbon monoxide leaks and poisoning are valid concerns you should always be aware of. Install detectors in your home near the generator so they will go off when they detect a leak. If you have a clean exhaust system and had your generator checked by an electrician, there shouldn’t be any complications, but it doesn’t hurt to stay careful.
Preparing Your Generator for Winter Storms With Crowe Electric
Preparing your generator for winter storms is the key to staying safe this winter in Milton, MA. Whether you need help preparing for the cold or fixing exposed electrical wires, the professionals at Crowe Electric are here to help, so reach out now.