1. The weekly test isn’t running

Standby generators are set to start themselves for a short test each week. You won’t necessarily hear it every time. Many units have a quiet test mode, and you may not be home when it runs. But if no one has heard it in weeks, that’s a reason to confirm whether the test runs, and if it doesn’t, to have the generator looked at.

2. A warning light, display message or phone alert

Sometimes the signs are subtle that your generator needs servicing, but this isn’t one of them. It’s the generator asking for service in the most direct way possible. On a Generac, an amber yellow indicator light or a Wi-Fi notification signals that service is due. On a Champion, check the aXis display. If your Wi-Fi drops, alerts may not reach your phone, so it’s wise to check the unit itself now and then.

3. It’s been a year or more since its last servicing

Manufacturers set different schedules for professional maintenance. Depending on the model, service is due every 1 to 2 years or every 100 to 200 hours of running, whichever comes first, so check your owner’s manual for yours. We recommend at least a yearly service, and our Ottawa winters are a good reason not to stretch it.

You don’t need a symptom to be due. A generator that has never had to run in an outage still needs service. It runs its test every week, and its oil, filters and battery age whether or not the power grid ever fails.

4. Slow starts

A generator that struggles to start is often fighting a tired battery or a fuel delivery problem. Generator batteries typically last about 3 to 5 years, and cold winters can shorten that. If yours is three years old or more, it’s worth having a checkup.

5. Uneven power

Lights that flicker or surge while the generator is running, or appliances that behave oddly, can point to a problem with the alternator or the fuel regulator. If the generator runs but some or all of your home stays dark, or it shuts down when a large appliance starts, the problem could be in the generator, the transfer switch or the wiring.

6. New noises or vibration

Rattling, knocking or shaking that wasn’t there before can mean a mechanical problem or a part that has come out of balance. An engine that keeps speeding up and slowing down while it runs is also worth having checked. The weekly test is a good time to notice any of this. If it’s louder or rougher than usual, or shuts off early, something has changed.

7. Oil or fluid under the unit

A wet patch or fresh drip under the generator is worth getting checked, unless it’s clearly rain or condensation. Look to see if the fluid appears oily. Low oil can make a generator shut itself down to protect the engine, and it may not run when you need it.

8. A fuel smell or leak

A fuel smell or leak can be a serious safety problem. If you notice one, follow the emergency instructions in your generator’s owner’s manual and the guidance from your gas supplier. Once you’re out of danger, call us. A fuel smell or leak means the generator needs to be serviced and checked before it’s used again.

9. Signs of animal activity

Mice, birds and other animals can be attracted to the shelter of a generator enclosure. They can chew wires, clog vents, build nests, and otherwise damage the generator. We’re experienced at removing animal debris.

10. After a storm or lightning strike

A lightning hit on the grid can damage the transfer switch, the part that moves your home from grid to generator power. You might not notice a problem until the next outage, when the switch needs to work and doesn’t. If a storm hit close to your home, or your power surged or cut out during one, have your generator and transfer switch checked.

Spotted one of these signs?

Nous service et réparer Generac, Champion and most other standby generators across the Ottawa Valley, including after hours. For emergencies we’re available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Forecast calling for an ice storm or high winds? Don’t wait for the outage to find out whether your generator is ready. Contact Powers Servicing us and we’ll check it over.