A helpful winter reminder for homeowners, while we take care of all the actual maintenance.
Winter storms can hit fast (especially in New England) and when that happens, your home standby generator becomes one of the most important systems in your home. While our team handles all technical maintenance and servicing, there are still a few simple things homeowners can keep in mind to ensure their generator stays ready any type of weather or outage.
Our guide explains what to watch for, what to expect, and when to call us, without asking you to open panels, touch fuel, or do anything mechanical.
1. Keep the Area Around the Generator Clear
Generators need airflow to operate safely. Homeowners don’t need to inspect or open the unit. Just:
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Keep snow, leaves, and debris cleared at least 2–3 feet around the generator.
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Ensure the top and sides of the unit aren’t blocked by snow drifts or ice.
This helps the generator breathe properly when it automatically starts during an outage.
2. Be Aware of Fuel Levels (If Applicable)
Some homeowners have propane or diesel tanks connected to their generator.
You don’t need to touch the generator itself, simply:
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Check your propane or diesel tank gauge occasionally during the winter.
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If levels are low, contact your us to fuel before a storm hits.
Proper fuel levels help prevent service interruptions during long-duration outages.
3. Notice Any Error Lights or Alerts
Most standby generators have a simple indicator light:
- Green = Ready
- Yellow = Needs attention soon
- Red = Service needed
If you ever see yellow or red, or if the generator is beeping, give us a call. No need to open anything, just observe the control panel.
If you have remote monitoring, keep an eye out for notifications. If we installed your remote monitoring, we also have someone keeping an eye on your generator for alerts.
4. Listen for the Weekly Test Run
Standby generators typically perform a quiet weekly self-test.
You don’t need to do anything, but if you notice it hasn’t run lately, or sounds different than usual, it may be time for a service visit.
If it seems louder, rougher, or doesn’t test at all, give us a call.
5. Make Sure the Generator is Accessible for Service
When winter storms bring deep snow or icy conditions, we still service your generator and homeowners can help by making sure:
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The generator is not buried
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There’s a safe, clear path to the unit
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Nothing is blocking access (trash bins, snow blowers, etc.)
This ensures faster, safer service for outage emergencies or scheduled maintenance.
6. Keep Up With Scheduled Planned Maintenance
Your maintenance plan already covers:
Homeowners don’t need to perform any of these. Just keep an eye out for your upcoming maintenance appointment, or call if you need to schedule one before heavy winter weather comes.
7. When to Call Us Immediately
If you notice any of the following, reach out right away:
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A red warning light
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Strange noises during startup
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Generator doesn’t run during a power outage
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Strong odors near the unit
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Visible damage (fallen branches, ice buildup, animal nests)
We’re Here All Winter Long
If anything seems off, if you spot an alert, or if you simply want peace of mind before the next storm, our service team is ready to help, fast, safely, and professionally.
Call us anytime at 800-253-6617 ext. 2
Our technicians are on standby, so your standby generator always will be too.
Stay warm, stay safe, and leave the generator care to us.
