Essential Generator Maintenance Tasks For Winter

Everything You Should Do Before the First Storm Hits

When the wind picks up and heavy rain or snow starts falling across Bellevue or the surrounding region, one of the last things any homeowner wants is to lose power. Whole-home generators provide reliable protection against unexpected outages, but only when they’re properly maintained.

Seasonal care keeps your system ready to perform when you need it most. If you haven’t scheduled your winter maintenance yet, now’s the time to make sure your generator is in peak condition before the first big storm arrives. Keep reading to learn how to do that.

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Does Winter Maintenance Matter? Yes!

Your generator is like any hardworking piece of equipment: it needs routine maintenance and attention to stay dependable. During the colder months, it faces additional challenges, including moisture, freezing temperatures, and heavier power demands.

Seasonal maintenance helps identify potential issues before they become emergencies. A well-maintained generator starts quickly, runs efficiently, and powers your Pacific Northwest home safely throughout extended winter outages.

1. Clear the Area Around the Generator

Before the next storm hits, take a few minutes to check the space around your generator. Debris, leaves, and snow can block airflow or create fire hazards.

Maintain at least two to three feet of clearance on all sides. Trim shrubs, clear away clutter, and keep the area dry. This not only maintains proper ventilation but also allows service technicians easy access to the equipment during maintenance or repairs.

2. Inspect and Test Regularly

A generator that hasn’t been run in months can develop performance issues when it’s suddenly called into action. Running your system periodically helps prevent problems like fuel degradation or battery failure.

Here’s what you can safely check on your own:

• Run a short test cycle once every few weeks.
• Listen for unusual noises or vibrations.
• Check for visible damage or corrosion on the housing and connections.

If you notice anything unusual, schedule an inspection before the weather worsens.

3. Check the Fuel and Fluids

Fuel systems perform best when clean and stabilized. For generators powered by natural gas, make sure gas lines are unobstructed and valves are in good condition. For propane or diesel systems, inspect fuel quality and levels, as old or contaminated fuel can cause startup problems.

Also, review coolant, oil, and filter conditions. Many homeowners prefer to have these items replaced during fall service appointments so the system runs smoothly throughout winter.

For homes using battery backup systems, check charge levels and confirm the system is ready before storm season. Clear any dust or debris around the battery cabinet, inspect connections for corrosion, and confirm your system’s monitoring app or indicator lights show optimal performance.

4. Keep Safety First

Safety should always be the top priority when maintaining or operating a generator. Carbon monoxide and fire risks increase when systems are obstructed or poorly ventilated.

• Never operate a generator inside an enclosed space or near windows or vents.
• Make sure the exhaust area is completely clear.
• Test your carbon monoxide detectors regularly during the winter months.

We recommend a professional inspection for any system showing inconsistent performance or delayed startup. Our expert technicians can check electrical connections, voltage output, and internal components that aren’t accessible without training.

5. Schedule Professional Service for Older or Standby Generators

Generators that have been in place for several years benefit significantly from an annual professional inspection. Components such as batteries, spark plugs, and wiring can degrade over time, especially in systems exposed to weather conditions.

Our trained technicians evaluate all major brands and models. During your service appointment, the team will test your system under load, replace worn parts, and confirm it’s ready for extended operation.

If you’re considering upgrading your existing setup, our team can also provide a free generator estimate to help you plan ahead.

Schedule Generator Maintenance Before the First Storm

When winter storms hit, reliable backup power offers priceless peace of mind. Don’t wait until the next outage to discover your generator needs attention. Schedule your seasonal maintenance now and keep your home ready for anything the weather brings.

Call 1-800-840-3346, schedule service, or request a free generator estimate with Bob’s Heating & Air Conditioning here.