A Simple Tune-Up Is Your Best Defense Against a Power Outage
As the summer sun fades and the crisp Vermont air settles in, our thoughts naturally turn toward fall cleanup and preparing for the colder months ahead. While you’re raking leaves and stowing away the lawn furniture, there’s one critical item on your checklist that you should never overlook: your generator’s annual tune-up.
You might assume that because your standby generator sits quietly, it doesn’t need much attention. However, like any engine, a generator requires regular maintenance to ensure it’s ready when you need it most. Skipping this crucial step could lead to costly breakdowns and, worse, leave you without power when you’re counting on it.
What’s Included in a Professional Tune-Up?
A professional fall generator tune-up is about far more than a quick inspection. It’s a comprehensive service designed to catch potential problems before they become an emergency. At Brook Field Service, a professional tune-up typically includes:
- Engine Oil and Filter Change: Over time, oil degrades and collects contaminants. Fresh, clean oil lubricates your engine’s moving parts, preventing premature wear and tear.
- Battery Inspection and Load Test: Your generator’s battery is the single most common reason for a system to fail to start. We’ll test its voltage and health, and check for corrosion to ensure it has enough power for a flawless start—even on the coldest mornings.
- Fuel System Check: We inspect fuel lines for leaks and ensure your fuel system is clean and clear to guarantee a steady supply.
- Air and Spark Plug Replacement: Clean air and new spark plugs are essential for efficient combustion. These simple replacements can improve performance and fuel efficiency.
- Simulated Power Outage: We’ll perform a full test of the generator, including a simulated power failure. This ensures your automatic transfer switch works correctly and that the generator kicks on and provides stable power to your home or business.
- A Full Diagnostic Report: We’ll document all our findings, giving you a complete overview of your system’s health.
Why You Can’t Afford to Skip It
Neglecting regular maintenance doesn’t save you money; it almost always leads to more expensive repairs down the line. A proactive tune-up can:
- Prevent Costly Breakdowns: A minor issue, like a clogged fuel filter or a corroded battery cable, can prevent your entire system from starting. A tune-up identifies and fixes these small problems before they lead to a major repair.
- Ensure Reliability: When a storm hits, you need to know your generator will kick in seamlessly. A professional tune-up provides the peace of mind that your system is “tested in the cold” and ready for anything.
- Protect Your Warranty: Most manufacturer warranties require annual maintenance. A fall generator tune-up helps ensure your warranty remains valid, protecting your investment.
Don’t wait until the lights go out to find out your generator isn’t ready. Schedule your fall tune-up today and stay ahead of the next outage.
