Floridas Climate makes it an especially enjoyable place to live. However, along with the beautiful weather comes certain challenges. Because the area is prone to experiencing storms and hurricanes, electrical outages can be a concern.
This is why a generator is such a great investment for local property owners. During a blackout, you’ll certainly appreciate having a backup power solution. So, how long do generators typically last? While generators are often rated from the factory to last between 15 to 30 years, there are several factors that can affect the unit’s lifespan.
Factors That Affect Generator Longevity in Florida
- Frequency of Use: The majority of people will only be operating their generator a couple of times a year at most. This means the unit won’t wear down nearly as quickly. If you need to run your generator near total capacity for days at a time, you can naturally expect it to have a shorter lifespan.
- Maintenance: To get the most life out of a generator, it’s critical to keep up with its recommended service schedule. Oil changes, tune-ups, and filter replacements are all important. When maintenance is neglected, even the most durable generator can fail.
- Environmental Conditions: Floridas Climate can cause generators to degrade sooner than expected. Excessive heat and humidity can certainly stress electrical parts. If you happen to live near the beach, salt air may also contribute to corrosion.
- Quality of Installation: Don’t allow an untrained amateur to install your generator. To avoid premature failure, everything needs to be set up correctly. Professional installation is well worth the peace of mind.
- Fuel Type: On average, diesel-powered generators tend to last longer than gasoline and propane units. Regardless of what type of generator you have, always use high-quality fuel.
How to Extend Generator Life
Regular Oil and Filter Changes
To ensure that the internal parts remain properly lubricated, a generator needs routine oil changes. It’s just as important to replace the filter, which captures damaging debris.
Install a Weatherproof Enclosure
A weatherproof enclosure gives your generator an extra degree of protection against Floridas Climate. It effectively shields the unit from the natural elements, including rain and debris.
Schedule Annual Inspections
It’s a good idea to have your generator professionally inspected every year. By performing a full inspection, a certified technician can confidently assess the unit’s overall health. From examining the electrical connections to checking for signs of wear and tear, they will perform several important observations. Any necessary repairs can then be made ahead of time.
Battery Care
During a power outage, the performance of a generator’s battery is crucial. To be on the safe side, have the battery tested every three to six months. Because corrosion can prevent a generator from starting, you should also clean the battery terminals every so often.
Test-Run Your Generator Monthly
Even if the weather forecast calls for sunny conditions, it’s still a good idea to test-run the generator monthly. This simple step helps keep the parts lubricated and ensures the unit is in good working order.
Signs Your Generator Needs to Be Replaced
Can’t Handle the Power Load
When a generator can no longer handle the home’s power load, it’s time to invest in a replacement. Complete failure is right around the corner.
Frequent Repairs Needed
Generators are engineered to deliver a reliable, trouble-free performance. Frequent repairs should raise a red flag. At this point, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a new unit.
Your Unit Is Getting Old
If you’ve had your generator for more than 15 years, consider upgrading to a new system. There’s a good chance its technology is outdated. Newer generators are more efficient, quieter, and more reliable.
Nothing beats having an expert in your corner. Don’t put up with any malarky, call Mister Sparky. From generator installation to electrical repairs, we offer a wide range of services. You can trust our licensed electricians to get the job done right. If you have any questions or need to book an appointment, feel free to give us a call.
