Having a backup generator is great when your home suddenly loses power and for camping. However, if you don’t use the generator for a while, ensure you store it in a clean, dark, dry place, whether short- or long-term. Here are some other safe methods for storing your portable generator.
Empty the Tank Before You Store It
Drain your generator of remaining fuel before storing it long-term, as storing your generator with old gas in it could damage its internal parts and become a fire hazard. Instead, safely transfer the gas to your car’s tank. Generators also use untreated gas, so there’s no cross-contamination.
Crank It Up Every 30 Days
Temporary storage is good to do if you own a business that needs consistent power or if you live off the grid and need power running daily. Regardless of your situation, the proper storage methods don’t change.
You could store it in a box or storage shed until you’re ready to use it again. Ensure you maintain it by dusting, cleaning, and cranking it up every 30 days.
Keep It Safe
Long-term storage is good if you often travel during the warmer months and take breaks between autumn and early spring. The preferred place for your generator is a cool dark place with sufficient ventilation.
Homeowners looking to store their generators long-term might also battle with the possibility of robbery. The best tip for protecting a generator from theft is to use a ventilated, lockable box if you don’t have a proper storage unit. The box easily fits around the shape of the machine, keeping moisture out and preventing others from messing with it and stealing parts or the entire thing.
Inspection Tips To Follow Before Storing a Generator
Consider these inspection tips, in addition to our safe methods for storing a generator, before you place it in storage. Following these suggestions saves you time and energy, reducing any maintenance problems you might experience later.
When inspecting the generator, check for loose or frayed wires. The damaged wires prevent the generator’s motor from powering up after taking it out of storage. Run your generator and listen for any odd sounds. Take your generator in for repairs before storing it if you hear anything interesting.
This information will help build your knowledge of storing a generator properly. You will continue seeing more days with fewer maintenance problems if you store it in a box or storage unit with good ventilation.
