William James
How to Store a Generator
It is fairly simple to use a portable generator if you have one. Simply check the fuel, start the generator, plug in any appliance, and begin using the generator's electricity. If you simply bought a generator to deal with emergencies or infrequent power outages, it will stay inactive for a long time.
What should you do if you do not use the generator? The only choice is to store the generator. But how should the generator be stored while not in use? What precautions should we take when keeping the generator outside? Can we keep generators in our homes?
All of these are critical issues, particularly for first-time or new generator owners. In this guide, we will learn how to properly store a generator when it is not in use, either temporarily or permanently.
How to Properly Store a Generator
When storing your portable generator, there are a few things to keep in mind. These will help ensure that your generator is reliable and starts when you need it. When not in use, here's how to store a generator.It is advisable to store your generator without any gasoline in it for long-term storage. You can empty the fuel tank by running the engine until the tank is empty or by transferring the fuel into an appropriate container. Drain your generator according to the instructions in your owner's manual.
Most portable generators run on the same unleaded gasoline that vehicles do. You might put the gasoline in your automobile to avoid wasting it.
Because gasoline and diesel deteriorate after a few months, your generator may not function if it contains contaminated fuel. Bad gasoline can also degrade internal generator components.
Use an authorized container when storing gasoline or fuel. Red containers are for gasoline, whereas yellow containers are for diesel. Store the fuel in a well-ventilated area away from potential ignition sources, preferably in a shed or detached garage.
To protect the fuel from spoiling, add the appropriate stabilizer for the type of fuel. Fuel will last longer if kept cold and dry.
If you don't want to move the fuel, stabilize it within the generator. Before filling the tank, add a gasoline stabilizer. For a minute, run the generator to spread the stabilizer.Remember to check the oil level in your generator before storing it.
Fill it up if it's running low. While you're at it, look for any damage or leaks in the wires and hoses. Before storing your generator, clean it thoroughly, removing debris from around the muffler, air intakes, and controls.
Your generator should be stored somewhere cool and dry to avoid corrosion caused by moisture. A storage cover can help keep dust and rodents out, but first, make sure the generator is clean, cold, and dry.
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How to Get Your Generator Ready for Storage
You can skip these procedures if you know you'll be utilizing your generator within a week or two. Cleaning, inspection, and maintenance are important procedures in storing a generator if you're ready to store it until the next unanticipated emergency or the next rain or snow season.Begin each step by reading your generator manual to determine what your individual make and model requires. The frequency of cleaning and maintenance for your generator should ideally coincide with when you choose to use and store it.
Step 1: Clean your generator before storing it
Your owner's manual will most likely cover some basic topics concerning internal and external generator cleaning. These are some examples:Examine for and remove any debris or dirt accumulation.
Clean the carburetor, cooling air slots, engine controls, muffler, and springs using a damp cloth.
Remove any oil or fuel from surfaces.
Leaving dirt, oil, or gas on surfaces while storing your generator can cause corrosion to seals and switches, as well as increase the possibility of fumes and flammability in the storage location.
Step 2: Examine Your Generator
Get into the habit of evaluating various features and pieces before storing them, using your owner's manual as a guide. While cleaning the unit, keep an eye out for any oil or fuel leaks. Then, check for signs of wear and tear or damage to:Cords and hoses
Handles and wheels
Switches and controls
Tank of gasoline
The spark arrestor
Deterioration or damage to any of these generator parts can develop during storage, so if you notice anything suspicious, call a repair technician.
Step 3: Perform Pre-Storage Maintenance
Check your owner's manual to determine if an annual tune-up is something you can do yourself. If not, a competent technician can be found at a small engine or lawn mower repair shop.Before storing your generator, you should execute the following annual maintenance steps:
- Changing the air filter
- Changing the spark plug
- Changing the generator oil
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