A generator is a fantastic investment to prevent losing power during outages. Not only can you stay comfortable, but you can also ensure that you don’t lose food if a power outage lasts for several days. But even these fantastic appliances can need repairs from time to time.
But if you aren’t using your generator constantly, how can you identify when you need to invest in generator repair in Sterling, VA? Keep reading to learn more about how you can complete monthly check-ups on your generator and what signs you should watch for that can indicate something is wrong.
Difficulty Starting
If your generator is having trouble starting, that can indicate that you need to call for generator service. You can go entire seasons, and even years without needing your generator so it is important to do maintenance checks regularly. This ensures that your generator is in great condition for when those emergency power outages do happen.
Reasons that your generator can have trouble starting include:
- The battery is dead.
- Oil levels are low.
- The choke is open instead of closed.
- The fuel valve is dirty.
- Spark plugs need to be cleaned or replaced.
- The air filter needs to be replaced.
If you troubleshoot any of these problems, and still cannot get your generator to start, give our team a call. We can get to the root cause of the problem, fix it, and even give you tips to prevent it from happening again in the future.
Lack of Power
If your generator is struggling to meet your power needs, there may be an issue with the electrical connections. You may be tempted to let the problem slide until the next time you need to use your generator, but by then the problem will only get worse.
Your generator may not offer any power at all by the time you need to use it again. You can look for signs of electrical problems, like frayed wires, knobs that are cracked, or loose connectors. But don’t try to make any electrical repairs yourself. Do you need a certified electrician to handle any electrical repair needs.
Leaks
It’s possible that your generator will leak out oil or coolant. When this happens, you will notice spots around the generator that indicate the leak. Don’t ignore these signs or you can do even more damage to the system. It is important to refill oil and coolant, as well as repair any holes in the lines that are causing a leak.
Exterior Damage
If there are noticeable signs of damage to the outside of your generator, then there is a good chance that there is damage inside, too. If you notice dents, cracks, or other damage, give our team a call to check it out, even if you don’t have generator problems yet. Then, make sure that you keep the space around your generator clear to prevent damage again in the future.
B&B Air Conditioning & Heating Service. We are always there when you need us. Schedule an appointment today for generator maintenance or repair service.
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