Winter, with all its festivities, is a busy, wonderful time for fun with family and friends. However, it is also when the weather can bring unexpected power outages. When the snow or freezing rain hits, and the electricity goes out, being prepared with a working home generator makes a huge difference. You can keep the oven hot, the fridge cold and the lights on, which is why taking a little time and effort to check your generator now is such a smart move. Since you want to avoid a hassle that could ruin your fun, let’s make sure your backup system is good to go.

Check to Make Sure All Is Well With the Fuel and Oil

The most important step in preparing your generator for the winter months ahead is checking the fuel. If your generator runs on gasoline, make sure the tank is full. If you stored that fuel for a long time, it’s a good idea to add a fuel stabilizer, so the gas doesn’t separate and clog the engine when you must operate it. For models that use natural gas or propane, make certain that your supply lines are clear and that you have enough fuel in your tank to last through a long outage. Winter storms can knock out utility services for days at a time.

Checking All the Battery and Connection Points

Even if the engine and fuel are in perfect shape, your generator will not start if the battery is dead. So, checking battery health is critical to ensure that the generator will not leave you in the lurch during an emergency.

Sometimes, batteries lose their charge just from sitting idle. Connecting your battery to a trickle charger for a day or two before the weather turns bad keeps it topped up and ready for instant use. If you use a portable generator, you also need to inspect the extension cords you plan to use. Check that they are heavy duty and rated for outdoor use, so they can safely carry electricity from the generator to your appliances inside the house.

Schedule a Service Call With a Licensed Electrician

To avoid significant trouble when the cold hits, you must have an inspection from a professional. A licensed electrician will thoroughly inspect and clean all components and test the machinery to make sure it works as designed. They will check that the oil is clean and change it if it’s dirty. If they spot any problems, they will let you know about them and work with you to make repairs.

Don’t risk an emergency that could put a damper on your holiday fun. Call Ambition Electric to get your generator ready to help keep your Lincoln, NE home comfortable this winter.