A standby generator is an ideal resource to have on hand in a Mid-Western region like Dayton, OH. Local professional electrical contractors, Jeff Bonham Electric Inc. know that these handy machines can get you through power outages caused by seasonal storms. With a little bit of regular maintenance, you can keep your standby generator in great shape and limit the need to call a 24-hour electrician for last minute repairs. Here are a few basic tips from the experts at Jeff Bonham Electric Inc. to help you keep you generator in working order. 

Plan For Regular Oil Changes

Similar to the engine on your car, you'll want to empty and replace the oil in your generator after every 200 hours of use, or every 2 years, whichever comes first. Most engines will require approximately two quarts, so it’s wise to keep this on hand in preparation for a big storm or outage. You should also plan to change the oil filter at this time. Make sure to consult the owner's manual that came with your generator to ensure you're using the correct oil for the engine. If possible, try using synthetic oil, as this can perform better in a range of temperatures, including cold starting situations. Luckily, if you've lost the manual, several manufacturers now provide downloadable manuals available online or through customer support. 

Allow The Engine To Cool Down During Extended Use

In the event that you use your generator for several hours at a time, it will get hot. Just like your car, you'll want to give the motor a chance to periodically cool down. The break period will reduce stress on the motor and other moving parts. 

Replace The Spark Plugs

The spark plugs on your home generator are designed to ignite the mixture of fuel and air in the engine's cylinder, allowing power to transfer into the motor. Similar to a car, these parts become worn over time and need to be replaced to ensure your motor is running at full efficiency. 

Replace The Air Filter

Over time, air filters collect dust, dirt, and debris, preventing the fan in your generator from running at optimal capacity. Fortunately, buying and replacing the air filter is easy and does not require any special equipment or disposal practices, as does an oil change. 

If you don’t have time to put towards the maintenance of your generator, contact the reliable local commercial electrical contractors at Jeff Bonham Electric Inc. Give them a call at (937) 233-7662 for more information on all of their services, or check out their website for more information. Don't be left out in the cold!