Snow isn’t the only kind of winter weather that can cause trouble in Winston-Salem. Ice can weigh down tree limbs and power lines, leaving homes and businesses without electricity. That’s when you need your backup generator to start and supply power when you need it.

Checking the system before winter gives you time to fix problems before a storm arrives. LOGAN Heating and Cooling can help you prepare with professional generator maintenance, repairs, and electrical services.

Why Is Generator Maintenance Important Before Winter?

A generator can develop problems even when it rarely runs. Batteries weaken, parts wear, and leaks may go unnoticed between outages. Cold weather can make starting harder, especially if the battery is already weak.

Routine generator maintenance helps find these issues before you lose power. It also gives a professional time to order parts and make repairs.

For a Winston-Salem household, that preparation can help keep essential equipment running during an ice storm. For a business, it can help protect the equipment and services connected to backup power.

Inspect Your Generator for Visible Damage

Start by looking at the generator and the ground around it. Watch for rust, dents, loose panels, fluid spots, or damage from fallen branches. Don’t open electrical compartments or reach near moving parts.

Clear loose leaves and debris from around the unit, following the manufacturer’s clearance requirements. In tree-lined Winston-Salem yards, fall leaves can collect around generators before winter weather arrives.

After a storm, check for snow and ice blocking airflow or access. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for clearing them, and never cover a running generator.

Check Generator Oil, Filters, and Other Fluids

Your generator’s engine needs the right oil at the correct level. Some models also use coolant. Low fluid levels, old oil, or dirty filters can lead to overheating, wear, or shutdowns.

Check the maintenance records to see when the generator last received service. Oil changes and filter replacements may be due based on time, operating hours, or both.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any owner checks, including shutting the unit down and letting it cool. Leave fluid changes and other servicing to a professional if you’re unsure of the procedure.

Make Sure Your Generator’s Battery Is Ready

A generator may have enough fuel and still fail to start because of a weak battery. Cold temperatures reduce battery performance, making an existing problem more noticeable.

During professional maintenance, a technician can test the battery, check its connections, and confirm that the charging system works. Corrosion or loose connections may also need attention.

Mention slow starting or recent failed startup attempts when scheduling service. A generator that struggled during its last test should be checked before Winston-Salem’s next freezing rain forecast.

Verify Fuel Supply and Generator Connections

Confirm that your generator has access to the fuel it needs before severe weather arrives.

Natural gas generators depend on a working gas supply. Propane systems need enough fuel in the tank for the expected use. Diesel systems need an adequate supply of fuel that meets the manufacturer’s storage and cold-weather requirements.

If you rely on deliveries, plan rather than waiting until roads become icy. Fuel use depends on the generator and how much equipment it powers.

Have a professional inspect fuel lines and connections. Leaks, damaged fittings, or fuel odors need prompt attention. Don’t attempt fuel-line repairs yourself.

Test Your Backup Generator Before a Power Outage

Many standby generators run automatic exercise cycles. These short runs can help reveal starting problems, but they don’t prove that the system will power your property during an outage.

Check that scheduled exercise cycles occur and report warning messages or missed starts. Follow the owner’s manual, and don’t change settings without guidance.

A professional can also test the automatic transfer switch, which moves the connected circuits from utility power to generator power. This helps confirm that the generator and switch work together. LOGAN’s generator services can help you prepare the system before winter.

What Are the Signs Your Generator Needs Professional Repair?

Arrange generator repair if you notice:

• Difficulty starting or repeated failed starts
• Unusual noises or strong vibration
• Warning lights or error codes
• Fluid leaks or visible corrosion
• Unexpected shutdowns while running
• Failure to transfer power during a professionally supervised test

Write down error codes and explain when the problem happens. These details can help a professional find the cause.

Don’t wait for a storm to see whether the issue returns. Wiring or connected electrical equipment problems may also require electrical repairs.

How Often Should You Schedule Professional Generator Maintenance?

The schedule depends on the generator type, operating hours, manufacturer’s instructions, and conditions around the unit. Arrange an inspection before winter, and check service requirements after an outage.

A generator that runs for several days may need attention sooner than its usual yearly visit. Maintenance can include battery testing, electrical checks, oil and filter changes, and operating tests.

Prepare Your Backup Generator for Winter With LOGAN Heating and Cooling

Preventive maintenance helps reduce the chance of backup power failure when ice brings down utility lines. LOGAN installs Generac generators and provides electrical services for local properties.

Contact LOGAN to schedule generator maintenance or repair for your Winston-Salem home or business before winter storms arrive.