A standby generator is one of the smartest investments a Tennessee homeowner or business can make — especially with our region’s frequent storms, power outages, and rural grid challenges. But just like any mechanical system, your generator needs regular maintenance to stay reliable when you need it most.

At ACDC Electrical Services, we install and service standby generators across Middle Tennessee, ensuring they’re ready to kick in the moment the lights go out. Here are our top maintenance tips to help you extend the life and reliability of your standby generator.

🔄 1. Run It Regularly (Even Without an Outage)

Your standby generator should run a weekly self-test cycle — usually automated. This keeps the engine lubricated, prevents fuel from stagnating, and allows you to catch small problems before they become big ones.

✅ Tip: Listen for your generator’s weekly test run. If it doesn’t happen, schedule a service check.

🛢️ 2. Change the Oil and Filters on Schedule

Just like a car engine, your generator needs clean oil and air filters to run efficiently.

🛠 Recommended schedule:

• Change the oil and filter every 100–200 hours of use or at least once a year

• Replace air and fuel filters annually

Don’t wait until it runs non-stop during a storm — fresh oil = longer lifespan and better performance.

⚙️ 3. Check the Battery

Your generator’s battery is what starts it up when the power goes out. If it fails, your generator won’t run — even if the rest of the system is fine.

✅ Inspect and test the battery twice per year
✅ Clean any corrosion from the terminals
✅ Replace the battery every 2–3 years, or as recommended by the manufacturer

🔌 4. Keep the Area Around It Clear

Generators need proper airflow and ventilation to run safely. Overgrown plants, leaves, and debris can:

• Block exhaust and intake vents

• Attract rodents or insects

• Increase fire risk

✅ Keep a minimum 2–3 foot clearance around the unit
✅ Trim vegetation and remove any debris after storms

🧯 5. Monitor Fuel Supply and Quality

For natural gas systems, make sure your gas supply is stable and connected.
For propane or diesel generators, check fuel levels regularly and monitor for signs of water contamination or sediment.

🔥 Stale or dirty fuel is a common cause of generator failure — especially during long outages.

🧰 6. Get an Annual Professional Inspection

Even if your generator seems fine, a licensed electrician can catch problems you might miss — like:

• Worn spark plugs

• Valve clearance issues

• Control panel errors

• Transfer switch malfunctions

At ACDC Electrical Services, we provide full-service generator inspections, testing, and repairs to keep your system running smoothly.

🧠 Bonus: Keep a Generator Maintenance Log

Track all maintenance, inspections, and usage in one place. This helps with:

• Warranty claims

• Future service scheduling

• Knowing when it’s time to replace parts

Be Ready When the Power Goes Out

A standby generator isn’t just for convenience — it’s for safety, security, and peace of mind. Keeping it maintained ensures it’ll be ready when your family or business needs it most.

📞 Call ACDC Electrical Services at 931-271-9603 or visit acdcelectricalservicestn.com to schedule your generator maintenance or annual inspection.

We proudly serve homeowners and business owners across Lawrence, Giles, Wayne, Maury, Marshall, Lincoln, Perry, Hickman, and Williamson Counties.