Portable generators can power your outdoor lawn equipment and keep your lights on in an emergency. While today’s generators are extremely reliable, they do require diligent maintenance to keep running at peak capacity. Below are a few tips for getting the most out of your electric generator.

How to Care for Your Portable Generator

1. Keep Up With Oil Changes

The oil lubricates fast-moving parts, reducing friction and flushing out debris that can cause excessive wear and tear. Fresh oil is also the proper viscosity to disperse heat, which can prevent overheating that can quickly destroy your generator.

Most generators will need their first oil change after just 30 hours of use. After that, you’ll need to change the lubricant after every 100 hours you put on your generator.

2. Empty the Tank Before Storage

Fuel will collect condensation and dust, so it’s best to empty the generator completely if you plan on storing it for more than 30 days. If there’s a small amount of fuel, run the device until it’s out of gas. Larger quantities can be siphoned out and used for something else. Just be sure to use a nonconductive siphon that won’t create static electricity inside the tank.

3. Turn the Generator On Periodically

During the winter and the hottest part of the summer, you may not use your generator very often. However, taking it out and running it in the off-season will help extend its useful life and ensure it’s ready for use when you need it most.

Every 30 days, put a little fuel in your generator and run it for 20 to 30 minutes. This will circulate lubricant through the engine, which prevents corrosion and other damage.

Whether you’re looking for a new generator or need new lawn equipment, Fackler Kubota Tractor has it! They pride themselves on serving home and business owners throughout Mansfield, Mt. Vernon, and Granville, OH, and offer a comprehensive selection of high-quality products from some of the industry’s leading manufacturers. To reach their shop in Mt. Vernon, call (740) 397-4400, or dial (419) 526-1300 to speak with someone in Mansfield. For their store in Granville, call (740) 522-3128.