The current social distancing rules in California mean that reliable home electricity matters more than ever. Remote work, family entertainment, and connection to the outside world now require reliable 24/7 home electricity.
Unfortunately, California’s electric infrastructure is not the most reliable; many Californians have experienced the increasing number and length of recent blackouts.
That means it’s time to ensure that your standby generator is in good condition and ready to go when you need it most.
Most of these are monthly recommendations for generator owners. If you’ve let a few months (or more) go by without checking these off your blackout checklist, your time is now:
1. __ Verify Weekly Self-Testing
Most standby generators should perform a self-test every week. If yours isn’t doing so, set it to auto-mode.
2. __ Check Alarm or Warning Buttons
If any alarm or warning buttons are flashing on the dashboard, call your generator service.
3. __ Keep Enclosure and Surroundings Clean and Clear of Debris
You want easy access to your generator and its main parts at all times — and no tiny creatures making their homes under its enclosure.
4. __ Maintain Oil and Coolant Levels
Your generator oil and coolant tanks will each have a recommended line. If either fluid is below that line, slowly fill the tank to the recommended line.
If your existing oil is dirty, schedule a visit from your generator technician.
5. __ Check Air Filter
If your generator’s air filter is dusty or clogged up, replace it.
6. __ Check Spark Plug
If your spark plug is rusty, replace it.
7. __ Check Batteries and Wiring
Call your technician if you see any loose wires or corrosion.
8. __ Let Generator Cool after 48 Hours of Use
This will avoid any risk of overheating.
9. __ Have Your Generator Serviced Every 6 Months
If it’s been longer than six months, have your standby generator checked & serviced as soon as possible.
Generator services are considered an essential service by the State of California, so they remain open and able to make service calls. To ensure customers’ well-being, our entire team consistently practices all current CDC hygiene and social distancing recommendations:
- All our office employees are working remotely.
- All of our technicians are still available to meet with you if needed, but will maintain a 6-foot distance. Whenever possible, they will communicate with you by video or phone instead.
- All of our employees have been consistently following CDC handwashing and hygiene guidelines since the beginning of March.
In fact, your technician may be able to service your standby generator while talking with you on the phone, eliminating any need for a physical meeting.
Thinking About a Backup Generator?
It’s true that for many, work and daily life depend even more on reliable home electricity and internet access than they did just two months ago. If you don’t have a generator yet but are interested in a no-fail source of backup home power, call us at (866)838-7962 or email homegeneratorsales@duthiepower.com to talk with an experienced professional about our cost-efficient home generator options.
