When the power goes out, your home’s generator becomes the unsung hero, keeping the lights on, the refrigerator running, and your family safe and comfortable. But like any major appliance, your generator requires regular care to perform reliably, especially during peak storm seasons. With a little routine maintenance and some expert support when needed, you can ensure your backup power system is always ready when it counts.
Here’s everything homeowners should know about maintaining their generator and when to call in the professionals.
DIY Generator Maintenance Tasks You Can Handle
Regular upkeep doesn’t always require a professional. There are several key steps homeowners can take to maintain their generators and spot problems early.
1. Run It Regularly
Just like a car, generators should be run occasionally to keep parts lubricated and batteries charged. A good rule of thumb is to run your generator for about 15-20 minutes once a month. This ensures it’s ready for action and alerts you to any startup issues before an emergency hits.
2. Check and Change the Oil
Oil is essential for keeping the engine cool and running smoothly. Check the oil level before and after each use, especially during extended outages. Most generators require an oil change every 50 to 100 hours of use, but consult your owner’s manual for specifics. Always use the oil type recommended by the manufacturer.
3. Inspect for Leaks and Corrosion
Make a habit of inspecting your generator for fuel, oil, or coolant leaks, and check for signs of corrosion on the battery terminals or electrical connections. Spotting these early can prevent major issues down the road.
4. Clean or Replace Air Filters
Dirty air filters can reduce your generator’s efficiency and performance. Inspect the air filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed. This is especially important if you live in a dusty area or use the generator frequently.
5. Keep It Clean and Clear
Wipe down the unit and ensure it’s free from debris, leaves, or nests—especially if it’s stored outside. Ensure there is at least a few feet of clearance around the unit to ensure proper ventilation.
6. Test the Transfer Switch (For Standby Generators)
If you have a home standby generator, it likely includes an automatic transfer switch. While you may not be able to test every part of this system yourself, it’s smart to monitor whether the switch activates correctly during a utility outage or your monthly test run.
Signs Your Generator May Need Professional Help
While homeowners can handle basic upkeep, certain warning signs call for expert attention. Ignoring them can result in breakdowns during a critical outage.
Watch out for:
- Inconsistent startup or failure to run
- Unusual noises or vibrations
- The smell of gas, burning plastic, or melted wiring
- Visible damage, frayed wires, or leaking fluids
- Carbon monoxide detector activation near the generator
- Fluctuating power or system shutdowns.
If your generator shows any of these symptoms, it’s time to call a professional for a diagnostic and repair.
When to Call In the Experts
Even with the best DIY efforts, your generator needs professional maintenance to stay in top shape, especially before storm season or after extended use. That’s where A-Abel’s certified technicians come in.
At A-Abel, we offer comprehensive generator services in Dayton, Ohio, including installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance for all major brands and models. Whether it’s routine servicing or an emergency repair, our licensed team responds quickly — often within 48 hours.
Here’s what our professional maintenance includes:
- Full diagnostic checkup
- Factory-authorized parts and repairs
- Same-day service when available
- Upfront pricing and warranty-compliant support
- Seasonal performance testing and calibration.
We also carry an extensive parts inventory, so our team can often repair your generator on the spot without waiting for parts.
Protecting Your Investment
A backup generator is a major investment, and protecting that investment is key to long-term reliability. At A-Abel, we help you extend your generator’s life and performance through regular checkups and priority maintenance scheduling.
You’ll benefit from:
- Preventative service plans
- Extended warranty protection
- Expert advice on upgrades and replacements
- Professional training in system operation
- Seasonal inspection reminders
And if your generator shows signs of age or inefficiency, our team can help you explore energy-efficient replacements tailored to your home’s needs.
Book Generator Maintenance in Dayton Today
Whether you own a portable generator or a whole-home standby system, regular maintenance is the key to peace of mind. With over 80 years of trusted service, A-Abel is Dayton’s go-to expert for generator maintenance, installation, and emergency repairs.
Don’t wait for the lights to go out. Book your generator service today and ensure your home is powered, protected, and ready for anything.
