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    Your generator needs to be ready before the power goes out, not after. Regular maintenance helps keep important parts in good condition and gives you a chance to catch problems before your system is called on during a storm or outage. While you might be most familiar with small, portable generators, a whole-home generator is a much bigger and more powerful unit. As its name implies, a generator can keep everything in your house running.

    All in all, a generator can be a very versatile appliance for homeowners. This is why it’s important to install and maintain a good generator on your property.

    What Does Generator Maintenance Include?

    A standby generator can sit unused for long periods between outages, but that does not mean nothing is happening inside the system. Batteries can weaken, filters can become dirty, fluids may need attention, and small problems can develop without being obvious.

    During generator maintenance, our team checks the parts that help the system start and operate properly when power is lost. The exact service will depend on your generator and its condition.

    Generator maintenance may include:
    • Checking and changing oil
    • Replacing air and oil filters
    • Inspecting spark plugs
    • Testing the battery
    • Checking fuel lines and connections
    • Inspecting for leaks or corrosion
    • Testing the automatic transfer switch
    • Checking overall generator operation

    How Often Should You Service Your Generator?

    For most standby generators, professional maintenance should be scheduled at least once a year. A system that runs frequently or has been used through a long outage may need service sooner.

    It is also a good idea to have the generator checked before periods when outages are more likely. Simmons often recommends spring or fall maintenance so there is time to take care of any problems before severe weather arrives.

    When Generator Maintenance Turns Into a Repair

    Routine maintenance can catch many problems early, but some issues require more than a tune-up. If your generator is struggling to start, leaking fluid, shutting down, or showing warning lights, it may be time for a repair.

    Signs your generator may need repair include:
    • Delayed or failed startup
    • Fluid leaks
    • Unusual sounds or smells
    • Power interruptions
    • Increased fuel use
    • Warning lights or visible damage

    If something is not working the way it should, learn more about our generator repair services in Chesapeake.

    Prepare Your Generator Before Chesapeake Storms

    Strong thunderstorms, tropical weather, and winter storms can all lead to unexpected power outages in Chesapeake and across Hampton Roads. If your generator has not run for months, an outage is a bad time to find out that the battery is weak or the system is not starting properly.

    Scheduling generator maintenance before storm season gives you time to address worn parts, low fluids, battery issues, or other concerns before you need backup power. A little preparation can make a big difference when utility power goes down.

    Quality Generator Maintenance in Chesapeake

    At Simmons Heating & Cooling, we understand the importance of having backup power in case of emergencies. That’s why we offer fast and affordable maintenance services for whole-home generators. We’ve been in the business since 1964. Our firm is a family-owned and -operated organization that wants to treat you like the neighbor that you are.

    Call Simmons Heating & Cooling today to learn more about generator servicing options in Chesapeake.

    Generator Maintenance FAQs

    How often should a standby generator be maintained?
    Most standby generators should be professionally maintained at least once a year, though systems that run often may need service sooner. Maintenance helps check the engine, battery, oil, filters, fuel system, electrical connections, and transfer switch so the generator is ready when an outage happens.
    What happens if I skip generator maintenance?
    Skipping generator maintenance can lead to dead batteries, dirty filters, low oil, fuel delivery problems, transfer switch issues, or startup failure during an outage. Routine service helps catch these problems before storm season or unexpected power loss leaves your home or business without backup power.
    Can maintenance help my generator start automatically during an outage?
    Yes, maintenance helps verify that the generator, battery, controls, fuel supply, and automatic transfer switch are working correctly. These parts all matter when the system needs to detect an outage, start on its own, and safely provide power to selected circuits or the whole property.
    Should generator maintenance be scheduled before hurricane season?
    Scheduling generator maintenance before hurricane season is a smart way to confirm the system is ready for severe weather and extended outages. A preseason inspection can uncover weak batteries, worn parts, fuel concerns, or transfer switch problems before backup power is urgently needed.