Does Your Home’s Generator Need to Be Repaired?

Oak Ridge, NC is no stranger to strong storms and other events that lead to power outages. A backup generator keeps your essential appliances and heating and air conditioning system going even if the electricity is out. Although whole-home generators are built to be durable and long-lasting, they may need the occasional repair. Here are some signs that your backup power system needs a prompt generator repairs from our expert service technicians.

Slow to Start

Your home’s generator should start within a few minutes of a power outage. A common cause of a slow generator is low fuel. However, if you have a natural gas generator, it should start quickly. If it takes a while to start, it may need a generator repair.

Power Fluctuations

As soon as your generator turns on, all the appliances demanding electricity will trigger a demand surge. The generator needs to be able to accommodate that surge. Once all the appliances are turned on, the generator won’t have to supply as much power. If you notice that the lights in your home blink while on generator power, or some appliances only intermittently work, this could be from power fluctuations. The generator might not have enough capacity, or it could be overheating. According to the Department of Energy, this could require an urgent generator repair or lead to a generator failure.

Excessive Fuel Use

A properly functioning generator should use fuel at the rate specified by the manufacturer. If you notice that its diesel fuel tank empties faster than what you expected for the amount of power it produced, or your natural gas bill drastically goes up during the time you’re using the generator, you may need a generator repair or maintenance visit. Excessive fuel use is associated with dirty filters, malfunctioning burners, and leaks.

For more information about the signs your home needs a generator repair, take a look at Total Heating & Cooling, Inc.’s generator repair services, or contact our expert service technicians today.