12 Jan Is Your Generator Ready for the Winter?

Now that we have experienced our first snow storm on Long Island, (while it may be a bit late), it’s a good time to think about your generator. Ideally this is something that you should be thinking about before the winter months begin. However, now is as good a time as any to make sure that your generator or back up power system is working effectively and efficiently and can be used at a moment’s notice.

According to Todays Homeowner.com, “More and more people today are concerned about emergency power. A portable generator can only backup appliances plugged directly into the generator while an automatic standby generator powers entire circuits and everything on them. A standby generator constantly monitors the utility so when the power goes out, the generator starts itself, and delivers power to your home within seconds. When the utility comes back online, the generator shuts itself off until the next outage.”

Heavy snow and ice (much like the storm we just experienced) are often the main cause of power failures in the winter months on Long Island. Before the lights go out and the heat turns off on a cold and dark night, make sure your back-up power system or generator is working properly. Here are few tips to make sure your back up power options will kick in and you will be prepared in an emergency situation:

Set It Up Properly

Hiring an experienced electrician is your best bet when you first purchase and bring home a generator or back up power system.  They can properly install transfer switches and interlock kits to ensure that your alternate source of power goes on when your main system fails.

Be Prepared

You should familiarize yourself with the generator operation before a power outage, including how you will find your way to the generator safely in the dark.  It is not a bad idea to have a practice run before an emergency so you can see exactly how your generator will work during an emergency.

Check the Oil and Fuel Levels Regularly

Oil is essential to the efficiency and lifespan of your generator. Check the oil levels every time you add fuel. Be sure to keep a few extra quarts on hand for emergencies.

Inspect Your Generator on a Regular Basis

It is a good idea to change serviceable parts such as the air filter, fuel filter and spark plug as recommended in manufacturer’s instructions. Stay on top of necessary maintenance for the best performance and safety. Throughout the winter season, run your generator at least once a month for about twenty minutes at a time to burn off moisture, lubricate parts, and recharge the battery. This simple maintenance task can ensure that it will work properly when you need it.

If you have a generator or back up power system that you want properly set up for the winter months, contact a qualified electrician like Marra Electric. If you need any electrical work performed on your home or business, be sure to call Marra Electric. They are fully licensed and insured and have been providing quality electrical services to residents and businesses throughout Long Island since 2004. Call them at 631-772-8576 to set up an appointment today. The quality, experience and the peace of mind that they provide is well worth the cost.