How to Prepare Your Power System for Cooler Temperatures

Cooler temperatures are ahead, which means it’s time to ensure that your generator is ready to power through cold-weather challenges. As temperatures drop, your power equipment can experience increased demand and harsher operating conditions. Additionally, winter storms can bring unexpected power disruptions. It’s best to prepare ahead to keep your system reliable and ready to perform when you need it most.

At Valley Power Systems, we want to ensure our customers are prepared for any power situation. Follow these tips to prepare your generator for cooler temperatures.

1. Inspect the Battery

Your generator relies on a properly functioning battery to operate. You should inspect the battery regularly to ensure connections are clean, tight, and free of rust and corrosion. If you notice any power fluctuations, such as slow startups, it could be a sign that your battery may be weakening. You will need to have it tested to confirm voltage and ensure

winter generator maintenance from valley power systems

the battery is still holding a strong charge.

It may be necessary to replace the battery entirely to ensure reliability during the cold weather season. You can count on our team at Valley Power Systems to properly assess your battery and handle the replacement if needed.

2. Have Backup Fuel Ready

If you own a natural gas generator, you won’t have to worry about having a backup fuel supply, barring any disruption in the pipeline. However, if you have a diesel power system, it’s recommended to keep a supply of fuel on-site. This will ensure you stay operational even when the main grid fails. Keep in mind that fuel should be stored only in approved containers in a well-ventilated area away from any heat sources.

3. Check the Coolant Level

Your coolant is essential for regulating the internal temperature of your generator engine. When coolant levels drop too low, your system could overheat, leading to extreme damage. Make sure your coolant is within the recommended level to keep your generator running smoothly this season.

You should also note that generator coolant can degrade over time, making it less effective and more likely to cause issues for your system. Valley Power Systems offers coolant sampling to monitor coolant quality and identify signs of contamination before they lead to engine damage. Our team will let you know when a cooling service may be necessary to protect your engine.

4. Run the Generator

It’s essential to start up your generator periodically to give the battery time to charge. We recommend powering the unit at least once a month for approximately 30 minutes. Operating the unit will also help you identify any noticeable issues with your system, such as power failures, strange noises, leaks, or warning lights. Regularly exercising the generator can help you be more proactive about maintenance needs, reducing repairs and extending the overall lifespan of your system.

5. Clear the Surrounding Area

A clean generator area is crucial to keep your system efficient. Debris can build up in your generator filters, restricting airflow and putting additional stress on the engine. Help keep your equipment clean and performing at its best by conducting weekly inspections of the generator’s surrounding area. Clear away any obvious trash, leaves, and other debris that could block ventilation. Maintaining a clean environment will go a long way toward improving airflow and reducing unnecessary repairs.

You may be tempted to clean the generator as well, but you should exercise caution. Moisture exposure can lead to rust and corrosion of internal parts and components, which can cause premature generator failure. It’s fine to clear dust away from the exterior with a soft cloth, but any major cleaning needs should be completed by a professional. At Valley Power Systems, we have the proper tools, equipment, and knowledge to perform your generator cleaning without damaging the system.

6. Check Air Filters

You should also check your generator’s air filters regularly. These can quickly clog with dust, dirt, and debris, especially during major weather events. Inspect your filters each month this season and clear away any obvious debris. If your filters begin to appear dirty, exchange them for fresh filters to boost performance.

7. Schedule Maintenance Service

One of the best things you can do for your system this season is to schedule a maintenance service with Valley Power Systems. We take a holistic approach to generator maintenance to help maximize the lifespan of your system. Our highly trained technicians will address immediate maintenance needs while also checking the system for signs of wear that could lead to a problem later. If needed, we’ll recommend appropriate repairs to keep your system reliable. Addressing repair needs early can help you prevent major failures later, ultimately saving you time, stress, and money.

At Valley Power Systems, our technicians handle a wide range of generator maintenance needs, such as:

Oil and Filter Changes: Our team will ensure your system receives fresh oil and filters at recommended intervals. Oil changes help keep the various moving parts of your engine properly lubricated, reducing overall wear and tear. Clean filters maximize engine efficiency by preventing dust and debris from circulating through the system.
Coolant Check: We will also check your coolant level and refill it as needed. Keeping up with this task will help prevent high operating temperatures, reducing the risk of costly engine damage.
Battery Inspections: You can also count on our team to conduct a thorough assessment of your generator’s battery. We’ll tighten connections, test voltage, and check terminals for signs of corrosion. Addressing battery issues early can help you avoid power failures later.

Leak Checks: We will also look for any signs of oil, coolant, or fuel leaks in your system. Leaks can have a major impact on generator efficiency, increasing wear as well as operational costs. If we notice any leaks, you can also rely on our team for the repair.
Engine Testing: Our technicians will also evaluate the overall performance of your generator engine. We’ll ensure it powers on smoothly, runs efficiently, and maintains proper load capacity. If we identify any issues with the system, we’ll provide you with cost-effective repair solutions.
And more!

Valley Power Systems: Your Partner in Power

Valley Power Systems is your reliable source for professional generator maintenance and repair services. Our highly experienced technicians can handle everything from oil changes to complete engine overhauls. When it comes time to replace your system, you can count on us to offer the latest power products from trusted manufacturers like Atlas Copco, Blue Star Power Systems, and Waukesha.

Learn more about how you can prepare your power system for cooler temperatures. Be sure to ask about our customized maintenance plans. Contact our friendly staff at Valley Power Systems today!