Your standby generator is designed to be reliable, but like any mechanical system, it gives off warning signs when something isn’t right. The problem is that many of those warning signs are easy to ignore—especially when the generator appears to be running fine during its weekly test cycle. Here are six signs it’s time to call Pow’r Point for a professional service visit.
1. It’s Been More Than a Year Since the Last Service
Most generator manufacturers recommend service every 6 to 12 months, depending on the model and usage. If you can’t remember the last time a technician looked at your unit, that’s reason enough to schedule a visit. Time-based wear affects oil, filters, belts, and battery regardless of how much the generator actually runs.
2. The Control Panel Shows a Fault or Warning Light
Modern generators monitor themselves and display fault codes when something needs attention. Never ignore a warning light. Even if the generator seems to be running normally, an active fault code means the unit has detected a problem that needs to be addressed.
3. You Notice Unusual Noises During Operation
Generators have a characteristic sound during operation. If you start noticing new sounds—knocking, rattling, squealing, or excessive vibration—something has changed internally. These sounds often indicate worn components that, if left unaddressed, can lead to more serious failures.
4. It’s Producing Excessive Smoke or Has an Unusual Smell
Some exhaust is normal, but heavy black or white smoke, or a burning smell, are not. Black smoke often indicates a fuel/air mixture issue. White smoke can point to coolant entering the combustion chamber. A burning smell may mean electrical components are overheating. All of these need professional attention promptly.
5. The Generator Runs But Doesn’t Power the Home Correctly
If your generator starts and runs but some circuits aren’t being powered, or the voltage seems irregular, the issue may be with the transfer switch or the generator’s output. This is a problem that requires professional diagnosis—running appliances on irregular voltage can cause damage.
6. The Battery Is More Than Three Years Old
The starter battery is one of the most common reasons a generator fails to start when needed. Most generator batteries last three to five years. If yours is approaching or past that window, have it tested and replaced if necessary.
If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t wait. Contact Pow’r Point to schedule a service visit. Catching problems early is always less expensive—and less stressful—than dealing with a failure during an outage.
