The typical lifespan for residential standby generators is 25 to 30 years. How long your generator lasts depends on how many hours you use it, but generally speaking, home generators are expected to work anywhere between 10,000 and 30,000 hours. Properly maintained generators can last longer, but you’ll likely notice an increase in breakdowns and repairs at some point, no matter how well you maintain them.
With Florida’s hurricane and storm season always looming, now’s the time to consider whether your generator is in good enough shape to perform through another summer or if you’re better off replacing it just to be safe.
The Importance of Generator Maintenance & Repairs
Your generator won’t last the expected 25 to 30 years if you’re not maintaining it properly. Generator maintenance and repairs are crucial for ensuring the efficient operation of your generator. Here are some key reasons highlighting the importance of generator maintenance:
- Warranty Compliance: Some generator warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid. Failing to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule may void the warranty, leaving you responsible for repair or replacement costs.
- Cost Savings: Investing in annual maintenance is often more cost-effective than dealing with emergency repairs or replacing a failed generator. Routine checks and preventive measures can help identify small issues early on.
- Fuel Efficiency: Well-maintained generators tend to operate more efficiently, leading to lower fuel consumption. Regular servicing ensures that all components are in optimal condition, reducing energy waste and operating costs over time.
Common Problems With Generators
Reliable Power Systems installs, repairs, and maintains only the finest home standby generators, including industry leaders like Generac. But even the best home generators start to wear out over time, and older equipment naturally experiences more problems than newer models, thus requiring a generator repair.
Three of the most common symptoms of an aging generator are:
- Problems Turning the Unit On: There could be multiple reasons why your generator is not turning on. It could be due to battery failure, low coolant levels, or a bad fuel mix. Another common mistake that will sometimes cause the generator not to start is when it’s not in auto mode.
- Electrical Wiring and Connection Issues: Loose connections or corrosion can happen due to regular use. A qualified technician will tighten all wires and connections during your annual maintenance check.
- Fuel Leaks: Fuel leaks can occur when the tank has been overfilled, which can happen when the fuel pump system malfunctions, or just casual human error.
Batteries can also become old and worn out, causing your generator to fail when you need it most. The older your generator gets, the more parts you’ll likely have to repair or replace, such as broken cords, busted tanks, and inoperable buttons.
Repairing your generator’s minor issues is usually worth the costs entailed. But, if you find your generator has problems or breaks down every time you use it, it’s probably time to invest in a new one.
Repairing vs. Replacing Your Generator
The average cost to repair or maintain a generator can run up to several hundred dollars. The newer the equipment and the smaller the repair, the less you’ll pay. Complex repairs can set you back for a considerable sum. Generator parts can run anywhere from tens to thousands of dollars.
At some point, the costs associated with repairing or retrofitting your standby generator will outweigh the price of a new generator.
Advantages of Replacing Your Standby Generator
There are many benefits to replacing your older standby generator instead of repairing it, as you can:
- Invest in a generator better suited to your home’s current needs.
- Reconsider the fuel source you want to use.
- Enjoy modern features like automatic start systems, system status lights, and corrosion-resistant enclosures.
When you’re trying to decide if the time is right to invest in a new generator, ask yourself these questions:
- Is your generator too old?
- Is it using excessive fuel?
- Is the generator slow to start?
- Does the power fluctuate when the generator is running?
- Are you spending considerable money on more frequent repairs?
While you can undoubtedly keep paying to repair your generator, you’re likely just delaying the inevitable fact that it will be past its due date. It could be time to put the money you’re pouring into repairs toward a new generator, eliminating the stress and worry of whether your equipment will work during a power emergency.
Reliable Power Systems is dedicated to helping South Florida homeowners maintain their standby generators. We’ll help you determine if your residential generator needs repairs or if it’s truly time to replace it. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us online or call us at 239-214-0342.
