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When you initially invested in a generator, you were counting on it to provide reliable service and protection against unexpected power outages, and your generator delivered. But just as all things don’t perform as well when they age – cars, computers, and your great uncle Morty’s memory – your generator is no exception. And if your generator is no longer protecting you, that means it’s no longer serving its purpose, and it’s time to find one that will. Follow our five tips to determine if it’s time for a generator replacement.

 

1 – Problems Starting Up

One of the first signs that your generator is nearing the end is difficulty starting up. Electric generators are designed to turn on automatically when your home loses power, so if it’s not an issue of a transfer switch not working properly, the likelihood is, your generator has reached the end of the line.

 

2 – Excessive Fuel Use

If your generator is burning through fuel more quickly than usual, that means it’s not operating efficiently and this probably means it’s time to say goodbye. The longer you allow your generator to keep burning through fuel, the more it’s costing you to keep it running. Similar to your car, generator efficiency will diminish over time, and if it’s becoming more expensive to run than to use your normal power supply, it’s time to consider an upgrade.

 

3 – Faltering Appliances  

If your generator is running but your appliances aren’t receiving a steady flow of electricity or your lights start flickering, this could signify that your generator is no longer operating at its maximum capacity. The whole purpose of having a generator is to keep your appliances running and the lights on, so you’re doing yourself a disservice by continuing to operate a piece of machinery that is no longer performing adequately.

 

4 – Constant Repairs

Do you find that your generator is constantly in need of repair? If you’re repeatedly spending money to repair your generator, you’re likely throwing away money that would serve you better toward an investment in a new, working generator.

Think of it like a car after an accident. When you bring your car in to be fixed, you’ll get an estimate on the cost to repair damages – or, you’ll be told the car is irreparable, and it’s time for a new one. It’s exactly the same for your generator.

 

5 – Carbon Monoxide Emissions

Generators that have reached the end of their working life may emit carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that is potentially deadly, so if your carbon monoxide detector detects any, do not continue operating your generator for any amount of time. The health risks are incredibly dangerous and the last thing you want to do is exacerbate the issue. At this point, there couldn’t be a more obvious sign that it’s time for a replacement.

While replacing your generator might seem like a hassle, the reality is that it’s not a difficult process. Having a reliable generator will ensure that you and your family will have power when you need it and that your health and safety aren’t compromised.

 

Kristopher Schwind is the proud owner of National Standby Repair.