Standby generator maintenance

Why maintenance matters

A home generator might sit quietly for months, then need to run for days without a break. Oil breaks down, batteries weaken and filters clog even when the engine runs only for its weekly or periodic self-test. Most manufacturers list a maintenance schedule in the owner's manual, and following it is often a condition of the warranty. Keep records of every service visit.

What a typical service visit covers

Exact steps depend on the brand and model, but a standard service usually includes the following.

• Oil and oil filter change
• Air filter and spark plug inspection or replacement
• Battery test and terminal check
• Review of the controller's fault and run history
• Check of fuel connections for leaks, by a qualified technician
• Transfer switch inspection and a test under load
• Clearing leaves, mulch, snow or nests from around the enclosure

After a long outage

If your generator ran for several days, it may be due for an oil change sooner than the calendar says. Many manuals give run-hour intervals as well as yearly ones. A long storm is a good reason to book a check, even if the unit seems fine.

What you can do between visits

Keep plants, mulch, firewood and snow away from the unit so it can breathe and so a technician can reach it. Look at the status light now and then, or check the app if your model has one. Make sure the area around the exhaust stays clear. Leave anything inside the enclosure and anything to do with fuel or wiring to a qualified technician.

Winter and storm season in Westchester

Northern Westchester gets snow and ice in winter and strong summer and fall storms, and both can bring down trees on overhead lines. Before winter, make sure snow will not pile up against the enclosure or block the exhaust, and ask your technician whether a cold weather kit or battery warmer makes sense for your model. Before summer, clear growth around the unit so air can move freely. A generator that has been serviced on schedule is far more likely to start when you need it.

If your generator is older, ask the technician at each visit how it is holding up and what parts are likely to need attention in the next year or two. That gives you time to budget instead of being caught out in the middle of a long outage.

Service plans

Some contractors and manufacturers offer yearly service plans. Before you sign one, ask what visits are included, whether parts are covered, and whether repairs found during a visit are discounted. Compare that with paying for one visit a year. We pass your request to an independent local contractor who can explain their options.

Typical maintenance costs

Published ranges for home standby generators.

Ranges are national averages from the source below, not quotes. Your price depends on the model, its size and what parts are due.

Sources: Angi, cost to run a standby generator