Be Hurricane-Ready: How to Prepare Your Generator for Inclement Weather

Inspect your generator for signs of wear and tear or damage. You must have corroded and impaired components repaired or replaced. Screw bolts tightly and secure loose or frayed fuel and electrical lines. Also, clear out dust, dirt, and debris from the air filters. If they accumulate, your unit could suffer clogs or overheating.

Home standby generators require ample airflow to work optimally. So, ensure your unit is located in a well-ventilated area and is at least three feet away from walls and combustible materials.

Drain your generator’s old oil and fuel and fill it with new, clean ones to the proper level for smooth engine operation. Check the condition of your oil and fuel filters and change them if necessary. Keep extra oil and filters on hand, in case roadways are impassable. 

Remove the spark plug and inspect it for damage or carbon buildup. If it's impaired or dirty, change it immediately, as it is critical to the ignition process.

Ensure the battery terminal is free of rust and your battery still works. Functional batteries generally last up to two years. If yours is several years old, test it to see if it can hold a charge or needs replacing. 

Check your generator’s indicator light. If it’s green, your unit is in good condition and ready for outages. If it’s red, your unit is offline and likely has issues that require professional repair.

Stockpile days’ worth of food and water before grocery stores and pet food shops close. You can also get frozen goods, as your in-house generator can supply your fridge’s power during an outage.

Prepare a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, and medication for sudden injuries and medical issues.

Have a fire extinguisher at home and ensure all family members know how to use it. Check its expiration date to see if it needs replacing.

Locate and store documents like IDs, insurance papers, and medical and financial records in a waterproof case or digital format to prevent water damage and ensure easy access when needed.