Generators are among those appliances you hope you never have to use but make you glad when the time’s come. Unpredictable weather conditions and technical instabilities often lead to power off. So having a generator in hand prevents uncertainty and makes you work continuously. Yet, generators are not used as frequently, and nobody uses them all the time so storing a generator is important.
However, storing a generator is not that simple. It would be best if you determined all the safety measures before storing it to enhance the generator’s longevity. Therefore, coming next, you’ll see all the essentials before putting your generator to rest. So without any further delay, let’s get straight into it.
Table of Contents
Short Term Storage
If you frequently use generators throughout the season and want to store a generator for the short term, things are easy for you. All you have to do is switch off the generator and wipe the fuel stains and debris. Later, place the generator in a cool and dry place from where you can easily pull it out for the next use.
Long Term Storage
Well, the process is a bit more for long-term generator storage. Since buying a generator is a big investment, proper maintenance before storage is mandatory to increase its longevity. And if you’re not going to use your generator before the next season, it is ideal for storing it safely.
Therefore, we’ve enlisted some essentials to store your generator.
- Level Up The Oil
- Put Gas Stabilizer
- Annual Maintenance
- Replace Damaged Parts
- Clean
Level Up The Oil
Before storing your generator, it is essential to level up oil in your generator’s tank. Oil level determines your generator’s performance and its life expectancy. So before storing the generator, level up the oil to the highest. Most generators require a couple of teaspoons, and regular engine oil can be used for it.
A certain level of oil prevents the generator’s carburetor and other sensitive parts from rusting. Similarly, it makes the generator ready to use for the next time, so do level up the oil.
Put Gas Stabilizer
Leaving a tank full of gas in a generator is extremely hazardous. The flammable elements of gas could create a risk of setting the fire. So it is crucial to empty the gas before storing the generator. But if you cannot run the generator out of gas, put a fuel stabilizer in it.
A stabilizer prevents the gasoline from eroding the rubber and plastic parts of the engine. Similarly, it prevents the gas from penetrating the carburetor and damaging it.
So leaving untreated gasoline in the generator is not an option; you must stabilize it carefully.
Annual Maintenance
Although generators require low maintenance, single annual maintenance can increase the life expectancy up to years. So make sure you maintain your generator once a year by doing the following things,
- Replacing air filters
- Replacing spark plug
These things are easy and quick and can significantly contribute to the generator’s performance. So the next time you need to use your generator, it’ll be in its ideal state.
Replace Damaged Parts
Apart from fuel and engine oil, you need to do a thorough inspection all over before storing the generator. So make sure you check all the internal and external parts of the generator closely. Any part showing wear and tear should be replaced immediately. Because storing the generator with damaged parts could do much worse with your generator, make sure you remove them immediately.
Here are some of the parts you need to inspect and replace carefully
- Switches
- Wheels
- Hoses
- Spark Arrest
- Handles
- Fuel Tank
If any of these parts seems replaceable, replace them immediately without a second thought.
Clean
Here is the last and the most basic essential before storing your generator. Cleaning the debris and dirt prevents the filth from eating the switches and seals. Make sure you wipe out all the fuel from the surface and preserve it cleanly.
Doing so can increase the shelf life of your generator.
Related: Where Are Honda Generators Made?
FAQ’s
Can You Store A Generator With Gas In It?
Storing the generator with untreated gas can be risky. Most of the generators use regular fuel; hence it is recommended to empty the gasoline before storing it. However, yes, you can store the gas using a stabilizer but not for more than 30 days.
Where Should Generators Be Stored?
The generator contains hazardous and flammable elements, which are dangerous to store indoors. So the ideal storage place is cool and dry outdoors.
How Far Should Be A Generator From The House?
Your generator must be kept at least 20 feet away from your house. The generator emits toxic gasses that can cause breathing problems, so keeping it 20 feet away from your house is ideal.
How Much Ventilation Does A Portable Generator Need?
Portable generators release carbon monoxide; hence OHSA states that there should be at least 4 feet of space with adequate ventilation.
When To Fill The Oil In Generator After Using?
Oil should not be filled immediately after using a generator. Let it cool down for a while before filling oil in it because the mixture of hot generators with oil is not a good option.
What Can Damage Generator?
Numerous factors, including overloading the generator, faulty winding insulation, and inadequate bearing oil lubrication, can contribute to overheating. If the issue isn’t resolved immediately, an overheated generator will have a shorter lifespan and may even be destroyed.
When Should I Ground My Generator?
Suppose the portable generator provides electric power to a structure by connection via a transfer switch to a structure (home, office, shop, trailer, or similar). In that case, it must be connected to a grounding electrode system, such as a driven ground rod.
Related: Where Are Champion Generators Made?
Wrap Up
So storing your generator is not a difficult process. You’re all set to store the Generac generator stress-free with a few preventive measures.
Whether you keep the gas within the generator or outdoors, empty it appropriately.
It will be there when you need it if you take extra precautions to keep your generator securely and appropriately. Additionally, it will help the generator last longer.
