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July 18, 2025
When a storm is on the horizon, your backup generator quickly becomes one of the most important tools in your home or business. But finding out that it doesn’t work after the power goes out is the worst time to discover a problem. At Premier Plus Electric, we encourage every customer to be proactive. Here’s how you can test your generator before a storm hits, ensuring it’s ready when you need it most.
Storms can bring extended outages, and even the most reliable generators can fail without regular checks. Pre-storm generator testing gives you peace of mind, helps identify small issues before they become expensive repairs, and ensures your generator will respond when the power cuts out.
Begin by looking over your generator carefully. Check for any signs of leaks around the fuel lines or under the unit. Look for frayed wires, corrosion on battery terminals, or damage caused by pests or debris. Make sure the air intake and exhaust aren’t blocked by leaves, dirt, or nests.
Verify that your fuel tank is full and that the fuel hasn’t gone stale, especially if you haven’t used the generator in a while. If you have a diesel or gasoline unit, make sure the fuel is clean and fresh. Also, check the oil level. Low or old oil can prevent your generator from starting or cause it to run poorly.
Most standby generators rely on a battery to start. If the battery is more than a few years old, it’s wise to test its voltage or replace it as part of routine maintenance. Weak or dead batteries are one of the most common reasons generators fail to start during an outage.
Manually start your generator and let it run for about 10–15 minutes. Listen for unusual noises like sputtering, knocking, or whining. Pay attention to any warning lights on the control panel. If your generator powers up but doesn’t deliver electricity to your circuits, it could be a sign of a deeper issue like a failed transfer switch or electrical connection.
If you’re comfortable doing so—or if you’ve had professional training—you can simulate a real power outage by transferring a load to the generator. This ensures it can handle the power demands of your home or critical systems. If you're unsure how to do this safely, we recommend contacting our team at Premier Plus Electric. We can perform a full load bank test to assess your generator’s performance under pressure.
If your generator fails to start, makes odd noises, or shows any kind of error message, don’t wait until the storm arrives. Call our licensed technicians at Premier Plus Electric. We offer fast, reliable generator service, repairs, and preventive maintenance to keep you powered through any storm.
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