Generator Maintenance

7016309225 • June 12, 2024

Ensuring Safety Through Proper Generator Maintenance

Generators are essential devices that provide power during emergencies or in areas where electricity supply is limited. However, owning a generator comes with the responsibility of ensuring its proper maintenance to ensure safety for both the equipment and those around it.

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep a generator running efficiently and to prevent accidents. Here are some key maintenance tips to prioritize safety when it comes to generator operation:

Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of the generator, including checking for leaks, loose connections, and any signs of wear and tear. Addressing issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into serious problems.

Fuel System Maintenance: The fuel system of a generator should be kept clean and free of any debris or contaminants. Regularly inspect the fuel lines, filters, and tank for any signs of damage. Stale fuel should be replaced with fresh fuel to ensure optimal performance.

Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are essential to keep the engine running smoothly. Dirty or old oil can affect the performance of the generator and lead to breakdowns. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the type and frequency of oil changes.

Battery Care: The generator's battery plays a crucial role in starting the engine. Ensure that the battery is kept charged and free of corrosion. Regularly test the battery and replace it if necessary to avoid unexpected failures.

Cooling System Maintenance: The cooling system of the generator is responsible for regulating the engine temperature. Check the coolant levels regularly and inspect the hoses and connections for any leaks or damage. Overheating can lead to serious damage to the engine.

Exhaust System Inspection: The exhaust system of the generator should be inspected for any blockages or leaks. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. Ensure that the exhaust is directed away from buildings and living areas.

Load Testing: Periodically test the generator under load to ensure that it can handle the required electrical load. This will help identify any potential issues with the generator's performance and capacity.

Safety Measures: Always follow safety protocols when operating the generator, such as keeping it outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials. Install carbon monoxide detectors in the vicinity to alert you to any dangerous levels of gas.

Training and Awareness: Ensure that anyone who may need to operate the generator is properly trained in its use and safety procedures. Make sure they are aware of the risks associated with improper operation and maintenance.

Emergency Preparedness: Have a plan in place for emergencies, including power outages and generator failures. Regularly test the generator and review the emergency procedures with all relevant personnel.

By following these maintenance tips and prioritizing safety, you can ensure that your generator remains reliable and safe to use. Proper maintenance not only enhances the performance and lifespan of the generator but also reduces the risk of accidents and hazards. Stay safe and keep your power supply secure by staying on top of generator maintenance.

Click here to read why you should invest in a standby generator for your home or business.

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History of Electrical Breakers

By 7016309225 • January 17, 2026

Every time a circuit breaker trips in your home, it’s doing something incredibly important—protecting you and your electrical system from danger. But have you ever wondered where these little safety devices came from, or how we protected homes before they existed? Here’s a quick look at the evolution of electrical breakers, and why they’re one of the most important inventions in modern electrical safety. ⚙️ Before Breakers: The Age of Fuses (Late 1800s – Early 1900s) Before circuit breakers became common, homes used fuses to prevent electrical overloads. A fuse contains a thin wire that melts when too much current flows through it, stopping the circuit. The problem? Once a fuse blows, it has to be replaced—every single time. Fuses worked, but they were: Inconvenient Easy to install incorrectly Prone to over-fusing (dangerously replacing with a higher-rated fuse) ⚡ Enter the Breaker: Early 20th Century Innovation The concept of the resettable circuit breaker emerged in the early 1900s, offering a reusable, more reliable solution. The first patent for a circuit breaker came in 1924 by Hugo Stotz (working with Siemens), whose design used a bimetallic strip to detect overcurrent. Breakers gained popularity throughout the 1930s–50s, especially in industrial and commercial buildings. Why they caught on: Could be reset instead of replaced More precise at detecting electrical faults Better suited for growing electrical demands 🏠 Breakers in the Modern Home (1960s–Present) By the 1960s and 70s, circuit breakers became the standard in new residential construction across the U.S. and many parts of the world, replacing fuse boxes entirely. Modern home panels include: Standard breakers – for basic overcurrent protection GFCI breakers – to protect against shock (especially near water) AFCI breakers – to prevent electrical fires from arc faults Dual-function breakers – offering both GFCI and AFCI protection These advanced breakers are required by modern electrical codes in many areas, and they’ve drastically reduced electrical fires and injuries. 🔌 Why Breakers Matter More Than Ever Today’s homes use far more electricity than they did 50 years ago. With more appliances, electronics, EV chargers, and smart tech, the demand on your electrical panel is greater than ever. Circuit breakers are the unsung heroes, silently monitoring every circuit to: Prevent overloads Stop short circuits Protect people and property 🧑‍🔧 Should You Upgrade Your Breaker Panel? If your home still has an old fuse box or outdated breaker panel, it might be time for an upgrade—especially if you’re: Experiencing frequent tripped breakers (check out our blog about troubleshooting electrical circuit tripping ) Adding new appliances or renovations Living in a home over 30–40 years old Find you need to upgrade your panel? Give us a call and we can give you a free estimate to upgrade your electrical panel

Flickering Lights?

By 7016309225 • December 17, 2025

Noticing your lights flickering lately? Whether it's just a quick blink or a persistent issue, flickering lights aren't something to ignore. While some causes are harmless, others can be a sign of a much bigger electrical problem lurking behind your walls. We believe in addressing electrical issues early—before they turn into safety hazards. Here’s what flickering lights could mean, and when it’s time to call in a professional: ⚠️ Loose or Faulty Bulbs Let’s start simple. Sometimes, flickering is just a matter of: A loose bulb in the socket An incompatible bulb, especially with dimmer switches A bad connection between the bulb and socket contacts 🛠️ Try turning the bulb off, tightening it, or replacing it with a fresh one. If the problem stops—great! If not, keep reading. ⚡Overloaded Circuits Do your lights dim or flicker when you run the microwave, HVAC system, or vacuum cleaner? This could mean: A circuit is overloaded and struggling to supply enough power Your electrical panel may be undersized or outdated for your current energy needs ⚡ Solution: An electrician can evaluate your system and recommend upgrades, such as a panel replacement or circuit expansion. 🔌Faulty Switches or Loose Wiring Flickering in a single fixture—especially when touched or adjusted—may point to: A loose connection in the light switch Frayed or deteriorating wires behind the wall A faulty fixture that’s wearing out 🔥 Loose wires can generate heat and even lead to electrical fires—don’t delay an inspection if this sounds familiar. 🏡 Whole-House Flickering Lights flickering throughout your home? This could signal: Issues with your electrical panel or main service line A failing main breaker Problems with the utility company’s supply line This is a more serious issue that requires a licensed electrician’s immediate attention. ⚠️ Never ignore widespread flickering—it’s often a sign of a potentially dangerous voltage problem. 🌩️Power Grid Fluctuations or Storm Impact Sometimes flickering comes from outside your home. Storms, power line damage, or utility equipment issues can all cause fluctuations in your service. We have a blog about how to set your house up for stormy weather. Check it out here ! While these may resolve on their own, frequent or prolonged issues should still be evaluated to protect sensitive electronics and ensure safety. 🧑‍🔧 When to Call a Pro If flickering lights happen often, are unpredictable, or are accompanied by: Burning smells Buzzing from outlets or panels Warm switches or outlets Tripping breakers 👉 It’s time to call a licensed electrician.