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Generator Maintenance in Summer: Avoid Heat-Related Failures

Keep Your Backup Power Ready When You Need It Most

Summer in Middle Tennessee brings more than just sunshine and cookouts—it also brings thunderstorms, heatwaves, and the risk of sudden power outages. That’s why many homeowners across Lawrenceburg, Pulaski, Waynesboro, and beyond rely on whole-home generators to keep the lights (and the AC) on when the grid goes down.

But here’s the thing—your generator needs attention, especially in the summer. Just like any engine, hot weather and high use can wear it down if it’s not maintained properly.

At AC/DC Electrical Services, we specialize in generator installation, repair, and maintenance to make sure your backup power is ready when you need it most. If you own a standby generator, here’s what you should know this summer.


☀️ Why Summer Is Hard on Generators

Generators generate heat—add Tennessee’s humidity and rising temperatures to the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for wear and tear.
Common issues we see in the summer include:

  • Battery failure due to high temps

  • Low coolant or overheating

  • Clogged air filters

  • Oil breakdown

  • Overload from running multiple appliances during a blackout

Whether your generator runs on natural gas, propane, or diesel, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding summer breakdowns.


🛠️ Summer Generator Maintenance Checklist

Here are the basics to keep your system in top shape:

Check the Oil

Heat breaks down oil faster—especially if the generator runs during long outages. Change it according to your manufacturer’s schedule or after every 50-100 hours of runtime.

Inspect the Battery

Hot weather can reduce battery life. Look for corrosion, check voltage, and replace older batteries before they leave you in the dark.

Clean or Replace Air Filters

Dust, pollen, and debris clog filters faster in the summer. A clean filter keeps your engine breathing easy and running cooler.

Check Coolant Levels

Coolant prevents overheating—top it off and inspect for leaks, especially if your generator runs frequently.

Test Run Weekly

Let the generator run under load briefly to make sure it operates properly and powers essential circuits. Listen for unusual sounds or warning lights.

Review Your Transfer Switch

Make sure the automatic transfer switch is working. This component detects outages and tells your generator when to kick on—if it fails, the generator won’t do its job.


🔧 We Offer Summer Generator Tune-Ups & Inspections

If you’re not sure when your generator was last serviced, now is the time to schedule a professional tune-up. Our team at AC/DC Electrical Services offers full inspections, maintenance, and minor repairs to keep your system ready for summer storms and blackouts.

We work with all major brands and service homes and farms throughout Lawrence, Giles, Wayne, Maury, Lincoln, and surrounding counties.


⚡ Don’t Get Left in the Heat

The worst time to find out your generator isn’t working is in the middle of a power outage. A quick summer service call now can save you hours—or even days—of discomfort later.

📞 Call AC/DC Electrical Services today for expert generator maintenance!