Inverter generators need regular maintenance and storage to extend their lifespan. In case of long power outages, you need your inverter generator to work efficiently without any hassle when running the appliances. Blackouts are usually unexpected. So, maintain the generators regularly with a complete stock of fuel, filters, spark plugs, and a well-ventilated area.
Here are some essential tips and tricks for your generator to maintain its long lifespan.
1. Know Your Generator’s Limit
Most inverter generators come with 1000 hours run time. You should check the user manual while running the generator. For example, certain generators run for approximately 24 hours while others work well for 9-10 hours.
If you use the generator at its maximum capacity for a longer duration, it can enhance wear leading to the short life of your generator.
2. Keep Your Portable Generator Clean/Covered When Not in Us
If your portable inverter generator is not in use, make sure to keep it clean, dry, and adequately covered. This way, its electrical components stay safe and secure. The functioning of portable generators includes condensation and dust, which can insulate on-field windings, leading to deterioration and short circuits.
Excessive moisture can cause rust. So, it’s essential to keep the inverted generator properly covered and cleaned. Moreover, generators last long if you properly examine the components and clean them regularly. Make sure to change the oil and remove water from the fuel tank to replace filters.
3.Empty Your Portable Generator’s Tank After Use
It’s essential to empty the tank of your portable generator. Start by putting a gas stabilizer over the fuel within the tank and run it for around 15 minutes.
Next, let its engine cool and then start. Now run the engine till the gas is finished, and it shuts down. If there is enough gas supply in the tank, use the siphon as it’s non-conductive, avoiding any static electricity within the tank.
Make sure to work within well-ventilated areas with a solid, leveled surface. Switch off the engine and disconnect wires and spark plugs.
4. Purchase And Keep Backup Fuel and Filters
If you are new to generators and their maintenance, keep a backup of fuel and filters. As soon as the air filter gets dirty or damaged, opt for a new one. Air filters need to be changed after every 50 hours of usage or once after three months.
Apart from filters, you need backup fuel for your generators. So, you must have extra oil as a backup if you run out of it. Change the fuel every 50 hours of usage to keep an ample oil supply. For the first usage, change the fuel after 25 hours.
5.Fresh Oil, Plug, And Filters
For keeping the portable inverter generators in proper shape and functioning, you need fresh oil, plugs, and filters. In addition, you should change the spark plugs after every 100 hours or after six months.
Along with the spark plug, you need to keep air filters too. If it shows certain signs of damage, replace them immediately to fit well with your generator ensuring continuous operation with the desired efficiency.
The most common reasons for generators not working are usually dirty or bad spark plugs, air filters, or finished fuel.
However, if you are changing the plug, inspect it properly and let it cool down. Next, clean it and try inserting it back using a torque wrench.
Clean the air filters regularly and refill the fuel within the tank. Most of the generators need a complete change of oil after 30 hours of usage initially. Change the fuel after every 100 hours. It’s best to stock up on fuel, air filters, and spark plugs, ensuring the extended lifespan of your generator.
Which Filters Are Best for The Generator?
If your generators cannot breathe and ignite the gas properly, they are useless. Therefore, it’s essential to get your hands on the new air filters and spark plug after 200 hours of usage. A new air filter is the best choice for the generator to efficiently mix fuel and air to run the appliances with an extended lifespan.
You need oil filters too, as oil is mixed with certain impurities, which result in friction and oxidation. For diesel engines, oil filters should be utilized to get rid of impurities.
After How Long Should I Change Filters?
Most new generators can last the filters for around 25 hours. Your new filters will work for about 50-60 hours, after which you need to change them.
Which Spark Plugs Are Best for Portable Generators?
Before buying the spark plug for your portable generator, check the owner’s manual. It gives you complete information about the spark plugs with the model number and specific brand. Next, look at the critical gap while choosing the spark plug, as the recommended gap should be between dual electrodes.
Most of the spark plugs come in sizes 0.028 to 0.031 inches. Lastly, you should invest in high-quality spark plugs rather than affordable ones with low quality.
Here are some of the best spark plugs available:
- Honda 98056-55777 Spark Plug CR5HSB
- NGK Spark Plugs BPR5ES NGK Spark Plug
- ACDelco
- NGK
- BOSCH
- AUTOLITE
- Champion
- Torch
- Dense
How Long Should I Rest My Generator?
Most of the inverter generators are unable to run for more than 24 hours. It’s only because of the small tank as it cannot accommodate enough fuel. However, certain generators in the market can run for 24 hours without even taking a break. Whichever generator you use, it’s best to turn off the generator for around 5-10 minutes.
How Do You Prepare a Generator for Storage?
The generator storage guidelines are usually mentioned in the user manual. Generally, you should store the generator in a cool, dry place. It’s because moisture and dust are great enemies of a generator’s electronic components.
First, drain all its fuel and then lubricate all the internals from the engine.
Make sure everything is dust-free and dry.
Regularly charge your battery.
Pull the recoil starter 4-5 times before you pour oil within the spark plug opening for lubricating its engine.
Pull its cord slowly once you place the spark plug until you experience compression of the cylinder. Ensure closed exhaust and intake valves with proper sealing to protect them against rust.
Lastly, suppose you are not using the generator for a longer duration. In that case, it’s best to run it after every 30 days, so it works properly with complete lubrication of oil.
Conclusion
Hope this guide helps you look after your generator, keeping it fresh and new. Inverter generators are expensive, and you don’t want to ruin their shelf life in terms of battery or charging capability. So, follow these simple steps to keep it running in the best condition.
