You just got a brand new generator and are now prepared for power loss in any event. Your next step? Make sure to take good care of your investment, so that your generator is ready for use when you need it most. To help you, here are three basic best practices for caring for your generator and helping to maintain its highest levels of performance in providing backup or emergency power:

1. Fire it up regularly. The best way to ensure there are no problems with your generator is to simply fire it up when you don’t need it. Then, take it a step further by hitting the transfer switch and letting your generator run at 50% load. Do this every few months or, at a minimum, twice per year. It will help you to discover any problems in advance of an emergency.
2. Perform recommended maintenance. Look over its various components to ensure no damage; check and change your oil, if needed; and clean your generator. Do whatever your owner’s manual says you should do, whenever your manufacturer suggests you do it.
3. Take care of your fuel. Old fuel can wreak havoc on your generator’s components, so it’s a good idea to drain all fuel from your generator when you know you won’t need it for a while. However, because there are times when you may need your generator often, like extreme weather seasons, keep the fuel in the generator, but add a fuel stabilizer to help your fuel stay in tip top shape.

A great way to get yourself in the routine of caring for your generator is to purchase a maintenance kit up front. Manufacturers often package them specific to their individual generators, so that users have the exact supplies necessary, including fuel filters, an oil filter, and more, for their recommended maintenance procedure. AP Electric & Generators offers maintenance kits for most of the generators we supply. Shop our selection here.

Should you need further assistance with your generator from AP Electric & Generators, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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