With the Summer storm season and Field Day right around the corner, now would be a great time to give your portable emergency generator a check-up. Don't wait until you need to use the generator to find out it won't start!
Many users of generators do not take the time to properly store them after use. Many are just put away in the back of the garage or into a storage shed without giving it any thought. Here are some tips on how to store them properly:
- If there is still gas in the tank, either drain the gas or add some fuel stabilizer, such as STA-BIL. This will keep the gasoline from deteriorating and usually will make it last for 18 to 24 months.
- Run the generator with the fuel stabilizer, then shut off the fuel supply valve until the generator stops. This will make sure that no gas remains in the carburetor or fuel line. Change the oil using the manufacturer's recommended oil viscosity. The recommendation is usually SAE HD30 for warmer months, or 10W-30 for colder months.
- Clean the generator with a clean cloth, and cover it with a plastic cover or a tarp.
- If you store any gasoline in an approved storage gas can, make sure you add STA-BIL to it. Better yet, pour the leftover gas into your automobile gas tank. Buy some extra oil and a small funnel so that you can add oil next time you run the generator. It is sometimes hard to get the correct oil in the middle of an emergency, and small engines will burn oil on extended run, causing the low oil shutdown to engage.
- Buy an extra spark plug for the generator.
- Store your electrical extension cords and adapters with the generator so they will be right there when you need them.
- If the generator gave you any problems during the last run, take it to an authorized repair facility to have it looked at. The next emergency is not the time to be playing junior repairman with the generator.
- Keep a tag on the generator noting when it was last used and serviced, along with the age of the stabilized gasoline in the tank. Better yet, keep the gas tank empty.
- Read the generator manufacturer's instruction manual and keep a copy handy for reference!
- Thanks to the Great South Bay Amateur Radio Club's newsletter, The Compass