Tips To Safely Store Your Generator Fuel
Having a generator around for emergencies definitely offers peace of mind. Snow storms in the winter and thunderstorms in the summer create a year-round need for many people, especially us New Jerseyans. As you probably know, your generator will only work if you have fuel to run it.
While fuel storage isn’t complicated, it requires more planning and thought than the emergency gallons of water you have stored in your basement.
If you don’t store fuel, you take the risk of hitting a shortage in your community if a natural disaster hits. Use these tips to start a safe fuel stockpile today!
How to Store Fuel Properly
Fuel must be stored in an airtight container. Most major retailers will carry specified fuel containers with built-in spouts, color-coded for the type of fuel you need. Red is for gas, blue for kerosene and yellow for diesel.
These containers should be kept in an area that’s well-ventilated, away from electrical equipment, flames, or ignitions.
Fuel will lose its potency over time, especially in warmer weather (above 70 degrees Fahrenheit). To maintain quality, put additives in the fuel. Both STA-BIL and PRI-G are excellent choices. These chemicals contain antioxidants and biocides which will prevent compound and microbial growth.
How Much to Store and When to Replace Your Fuel
How much fuel you should store depends on a few factors:
- How warm the climate is in your area (potency concerns)
- How much you think you’ll need
- How much your municipality allows you to store
In general, most municipalities limit the amount of fuel that can be stored to 25 gallons.
As far as replacing the fuel, a good rule of thumb is to refresh your supply every six months. Your fuel doesn’t have to go to waste though; you can simply pour the old gas into your vehicle.
Dangers with Fuel Storage
- Never keep fuel in the house or in a storage area attached to your house
- Fuel shut-off valves on generators are not 100% efficient, so be sure the tank is kept empty
- Gas can expand, so fill containers up to 95% to allow room for that to occur
Be Ready!
Safely storing fuel will allow you to get your generator up and running quickly in the event of an emergency. Give you and your family peace of mind that you’ll be prepared when disaster strikes. If you have further questions on fuel safety contact us today (732) 410-7695!
Is A Standby Generator Right For Your Family’s Needs?
Standby generators can offer a lot of perks to the average household, but are they crucial for your home? As much as having energy on hand is great in areas of unpredictable weather or instances where electricity is needed for a family member, a generator can also add more value to your home if you plan on selling the property in the future. The flip side of the coin is that standby generators can be very costly, making their necessity questionable if you can go without electricity for a small window of time. So if you’re on the fence in terms of a generator purchase, we’ve compiled a great list of how necessary a standby generator could be for you and your family.
Is It Necessary?
Standby generators are not like portable generators, as they automatically switch on whenever an electrical disruption occurs in your home. Here are a few things to gloss over before you make the decision to purchase a standby generator:
- If you need need a generator for medical purposes, then you absolutely need a generator for your home.
- If you live in an area of prolonged and frequent power outages then you would make great use of a standby generator.
- If you live in areas where hurricanes occur, then a standby generator is an excellent idea to combat sweltering heat as it keeps important utilities (air conditioner, refrigerator, etc.) running.
- If you’re buying one for a home that isn’t regularly occupied in an area with extreme temperatures, a standby generator will keep your heating/cooling units on to combat damage to pipes and other sensitive product.
Pricing
So you’ve made the decision to purchase a standby generator, but you’re curious as to how much it may cost you. The price generally goes by wattage, so generators with low wattage can still keep your essentials operating, but will leave a few appliances and areas without power. Generators with high wattage can be powerful enough to keep an entire home in operation but this will likely come with a bigger price tag.
If you’re still in the dark regarding how important a standby generator may be for your home, then feel free to contact us a Corbin Electric on the web or by phone at (732) 410-7695. We’re here to shed light on your power outage issues!
Keep Your Generator Running Smoothly Throughout Hurricane Season
The ravages of winter are barely behind us, but already it’s time to plan ahead for hurricane season. In New Jersey, hurricane season officially begins on June 1st, according to the National Hurricane Center, and that means right now is a good time to make sure you understand some of the most common home generator problems and their causes. Here’s a quick review of the top three problems you’re most likely to encounter:
- Stale fuel: this is perhaps one of the most common problems encountered by homeowners and also one of the easiest to avoid. Adding a fuel stabilizer during the “off” season can help prevent fuel breakdown that can occur when the generator is being stored unused for months at a time, but a better option is to drain the old fuel from the tank and the carburetor before placing your generator in storage. Some carburetors have drains while others are drained by powering on the generator and allowing it to run out of gas.
- Backfeed: Backfeed is another common problem encountered by home generator owners, especially those with limited experience in their use. Backfeed occurs when a generator is plugged into a home’s wiring system without the use of a transfer switch. This can potentially cause electricity to leave the home and travel along the primary power lines, where they can cause serious equipment damage and shock-related injuries to anyone who may be working on the power lines. Backfeed can also overwhelm your own circuits and cause significant damage to your generator. The best way to avoid backfeed is to plug appliances directly into the generator when possible; when that’s not an option, such as when powering a furnace or central air conditioning system, you’ll need to have a transfer switch installed to temporarily transfer the supply from the electric company to the generator. Once the power outage is over, the switch can be used to transfer power back to the grid.
- Running on empty: Running out of fuel while your generator is running is another common problem, and one that can result in damage to the generator’s magnetic coils. When that happens, your generator may still start, but it won’t be able to produce power. To prevent “running on empty,” be sure to check your fuel levels before starting the generator and periodically while it’s in operation, especially if it’s being used for long periods of time. Store extra gasoline safely using approved containers. Also be sure to “power down” the electrical load before turning the generator off.
Finally, never work on a generator unless you feel comfortable working with electricity and gasoline engines. And never attempt a repair or maintenance chore unless you understand the instructions in your owner’s manual and you’re sure you know what you’re doing.
Not comfortable doing repairs yourself? No problem! At Corbin Electric, our service department is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you never have to worry about having the power you need. To learn more or to schedule a repair or appointment, visit our website or call (732)410-7695.
Why Spring is the Perfect Time to Get a Generator
Thinking about buying a generator? Now is the right time to make the leap! Spring is just about here, and statistics show the best time to buy a generator is before the storm hits – literally. In New Jersey, storm season typically kicks in once humid summer weather arrives, when shifts in the Gulf Stream that tend to kick storms and hurricanes right up the coast and into the heart of the Garden State. If you wait until those stormy forecasts start hitting the airwaves, you can expect to pay significantly more for a generator. In fact, buying a generator outside of the typical storm season can save you plenty in upfront costs, and because you’re buying before you need it, you have plenty of time to learn how to use it – and that can save you a lot of headaches.
Learning how to use a generator isn’t rocket science, but it’s not just a matter of flipping a switch and having all your power restored, either. It begins with choosing the right generator for your needs, and that depends primarily on how you want to use it. Most people choose generators that are powerful enough to keep appliances like their refrigerator and freezer up and running, as well as their air conditioning units so they can stay comfortable during those hot summer nights until the power is restored. Many people also choose to make sure they have enough power for electronics like computers and television, as well as chargers for tablets and cellphones. And still others have medical equipment to consider, like nebulizers that help them or their loved ones breathe.
What it boils down to is that each person’s needs are unique, and choosing a generator that meets those needs means you have to know how much power you need to draw and which generators are built to supply that power. Again, it’s not rocket science, but it’s not always an easy task either.
Once you buy your generator, you have to know how to use it – and how to use it safely. Like any other piece of equipment that uses fuel combustion, a generator can cause a deadly buildup of carbon monoxide if it’s not situated and used properly. Taking the time to make sure you know how to use your generator will ensure your safety and the safety of your family when the power goes out.
At Corbin Electric, we’ve been providing New Jersey homeowners with generators for years, and we know how to make sure the generator you choose suits both your energy needs and your budget. We can help you consider all your options so you feel confident about the generator you choose. Plus, we have the expertise – and the time – to set up your generator and explain how to operate it so you feel confident about using it.
If you’ve been thinking about buying a generator, now is the ideal time. Give us a call at 732-536-0444 or use our contact form and learn how we can help you keep the lights on when the power goes out!
Getting Your Generator Ready For Spring
The long, cold winter is drawing to a close, and that means summer storm season can’t be too far away. There’s one thing you can say about New Jersey – it offers lots of opportunities to experience weather in all its crazy glory. It also offers plenty of chances for the power to go out. In fact, thanks to a recent spate of especially fierce storms, home generator use has been on the upswing in the state. If you’re one of the homeowners who believes in the power of being prepared, now is the time to dust off that generator and make sure it’s ready for storm season and all it brings.
Caring for your generator now means you’ll have time to identify parts that are becoming worn or nearing the end of their life cycle so they can be replaced before they wear out completely. After all, few things are as disheartening as turning to your generator during an outage, only to find it won’t start. Proactive maintenance helps you find problems and nip them in the bud, before they escalate into major problems. Here’s what you need to do:
- First, grab your owner’s manual and read it over. Your manual contains important information about your generator’s specific type and model, like the best type of oil to use, the size filter you need and other brand- and model-specific data. Can’t find your manual? Look online. Many companies offer copies you can download or browse through right on their website. If that fails, give us a call. We work with many brands of generators, and we can help you determine what you need.
- Perform a visual inspection. Inspect gaskets, hoses and other parts for signs of wear and make note of parts that need to be replaced.
- Change the oil and spark plugs. Drain the old oil and replace the oil filter before adding new oil. Use the type of oil recommended for your generator.
- Add a new air filter, again, using the filter that’s recommended for your brand and model.
- Check the battery and clean the terminals.
- Check the exhaust outlet to make sure it’s not obstructed. Enterprising insects may decide to overwinter in your exhaust, so give it a good visual inspection before using it for the first time after it’s been stored.
- Wipe down the unit, making sure to remove dust and debris.
- Run the generator to make sure it’s operating the way it should. Take note of any unusual sounds that could indicate a problem. And be sure to follow proper operating procedures during your test run; don’t make the potentially fatal mistake of thinking you can do this pre-season run in an enclosed garage or shed. Take the time to wheel it outside so there’s plenty of ventilation. Let it run for at least 20 minutes, and make sure it’s providing power.
Preventive maintenance is an important step to ensure you have power when you need it. If you’re not sure how to tune-up or maintain your generator, give us a call at 732-536-0444. We’re happy to help!
Top Tips for Generator Winter Maintenance
If you follow our blog, hopefully you performed your winter maintenance back in the Fall; if you didn’t, here’s a reminder of a few things you can – and should – still do to help ensure your generator is ready to work when you need it this winter. And if you did prep your generator for cold winter back in the fall, you may still want to review to make sure you’re keeping up on ongoing maintenance tasks to keep your unit in top performing shape:
- Invest in a cold weather kit. These kits usually include both battery warmers and oil heaters, and may also include additional items like fuel additives, covers and a few basic replacement parts. Cold weather kits are designed for specific types of generators, so be sure you choose the one that’s best for your make and model. Depending on the items you already own, it may make more sense and save you more money by buying individual items. If you’re not sure what items you need or which brands are right for your generator, ask us; we’re always ready to help.
- Buy a battery warmer: Just as your car can have trouble starting cold weather, so can your generator. Battery warmer units are typically controlled by a thermostat, which means they turn on and off automatically. Some units sit under the battery, so be prepared to do a little minor disassembly to install one.
- Add an oil heater: During cold weather, oil turns from a liquid lubricant into a viscous sludge that often isn’t able to provide important protection to your engine and its moving parts. Like the battery heater, oil heaters turn on when the temps hit a certain level to make sure the oil in your generator remains at the right viscosity for proper use. Read instructions carefully; some heaters require you to fill your unit’s oil reservoir with a 5W-30 synthetic oil before use.
- Check your extension cords for wear, including “kinked” or bent areas that can cause shorts. The time to replace them is now before the snow starts to fly and shoppers run like mad to clear off the shelves of anything generator-related. While you’re getting a new cord, consider stocking up on other generator essentials to avoid the need to go out once a storm hits.
- Run your generator often: Not only does running it every few weeks ensure it’s running properly, but it also helps ensure bearings and gaskets stay lubricated. That’s especially important when the generator sits idle, since fluids can settle and gum-up, meaning they’ll be less effective and won’t do their job as well. Over time, that can lead to damage and unexpected problems when running during the cold months of winter. Don’t be lazy – be sure to take your generator outside and well away form your house before starting it up and let it run for 10 to 20 minutes or so. Wipe it off before putting it away to make sure to remove any moisture that could cause corrosion.
Taking these simple steps to proper maintenance is the best way to make sure your generator is ready for use when you need it. Questions? Give us a call. We’re ready to help.
Named by Generac® as the Top Dealer in the East Region!
Corbin Electrical Services, Inc. was awarded the top dealer in the East region at the Generac Annual Dealer Forum!
The Generac dealer network is comprised of over 5,000 generator dealers nationwide. It’s a great honor to be recognized by the factory as the best dealer in the region!
Check out the reviews Corbin Electric has received from their wonderful customers (here), and feel free to leave a review, too!
Corbin Electrical Services is a full service residential and commercial electrical contractor servicing your community for over 40 years. We are licensed and bonded to conduct business in the State of New Jersey, Florida and Delaware. Our dedicated full time office staff is always ready to answer your questions and concerns. Our service technicians are the best troubleshooters in the industry. Our friendly and professional service technicians will offer you the most cost effective method to repair the problem at hand.
3 Winter Generator Issues and How to Prevent Them
Even before winter had officially arrived this season, news reports were rolling in from across the country, detailing the tremendous snow and ice storms that were sweeping through many states, wreaking havoc and causing major power outages in their wake. Although for many people, the result was days without power including loss of lights, heat and hot water, those who had generators on hand were better able to cope until power outages were resolved.
It’s true, having a home generator can be a real benefit in the winter months, but that doesn’t mean that simply owning a generator will be enough to solve all your weather-related electrical problems. Here are three of the most common winter-related home generator problems and the steps you can take now to help prevent them:
- Carbon monoxide poisoning: This is a major problem in winter when people have their homes closed up tight against the cold and wind, and most of the problems are due to the improper use of space heaters. However, a fair share are due to improper use of home generators. To avoid potential carbon monoxide poisoning – which can be deadly – NEVER operate your generator in your home – even in a basement or garage – and when placing it outside, make sure it’s at least 10 feet away from any vents, doors or windows – yours as well as your neighbors’. Install carbon monoxide detectors in the living area and all the sleeping areas of your home.
- Shock hazards: Since generators are often used in the rain and snow, it’s important to take extra precautions to avoid electrical shock risks, which are increased in wet weather. When possible, store your generator under a covered area like a carport or open-sided shed or portable canopy so you’re standing on dry ground when operating it. Make sure the generator is not located in a depression where water can collect. Make sure your generator is properly grounded and where shoes with rubber soles when operating it.
- Power cord problems: Many people use extension cords to run their generators, and they can cause additional hazards. In addition to the obvious risk of tripping and falling, especially on icy ground, extension cords run through windows provide another place for carbon monoxide to enter. If you must run a cord through a cracked window, consider sealing the space with duct tape to prevent fumes from entering, and again, place the generator far away from the window. Plug cords into the generator with the power switch in the off position and, ideally, the breaker off as well. Turn on the generator and power on the breaker after the cords are in place. Inspect all cords – extension cords and dedicated power cords – before each operation, all along the length of cord as well as at both ends to check for worn spots and fraying that could cause shorts and shocks. Consider having a transfer switch installed to avoid extension cord problems.
Generators can be lifesavers – literally – when winter storms hit. Understanding their risks and issues as well as their benefits is the best way to ensure you and your generator weather the winter safely.
6 Sure Signs You Should Invest in a Generator
Home generators are more popular than ever, and there are lots of reasons why. But if you still can’t decide whether or not to take the plunge, we’ve compiled a list of the top reasons why investing in a generator might make sense for you:
- You have weather. That may sound like a smart-aleck thing to say, but seriously, if you have thunderstorms, ice storms, snowstorms, hail storms, hurricanes, nor’easters, tornadoes or just about any other type of major storm event or severe weather in your region, you’re at risk for a power outage. Having a backup generator on hand will ensure you’re ready to “weather” any storm (pun intended) by providing you with the considerable peace of mind that comes from knowing your appliances, heater and lights will still be operable while repairs are being made to the grid.
- You live in an area where sudden outages are not uncommon. In some areas of the U.S. where severe weather occurs on a regular basis, sudden power outages become much more of a reality. Sometimes these outages are due to storms that are almost predictable in their seasonal regularity; other times, outages can be caused by rolling blackouts or brownouts designed to prevent the power grid from breaking down or occurring as a result of aging infrastructure. Rolling outages are especially common in major metro areas during summer heatwaves when air conditioner use is at its peak. Having a portable generator means you can still enjoy power in your own home even when the grid goes down.
- You or a family member relies on medical equipment that uses electricity. From powered stair lifts to breathing devices to refrigeration to keep medicines from spoiling, having a generator on hand is essential for ensuring you’re not left facing a harmful or potentially life-threatening power outage.
- You’re in a flood area. Some areas of the country are just more prone to floods and the power outages they can cause, and having a generator on hand makes sense, especially considering that flooding can cause outages to be prolonged. Your generator will come in mighty handy when it’s time to pump out your wet basement. Even areas that aren’t prone to flood can have flash floods that can be devastating (consider Arizona’s experience this past autumn).
- You work at home. Nearly a quarter of the U.S. population works at least part of the time from a home office. If you depend on your home to earn part of your living, having a backup home generator means you don’t have to worry about losing customers when the power goes out. Plus, a generator used for business purposes may be deductible under the home use of business deduction (IRS Publication 587).
- You rely on a freezer. A freezer can be a great tool for saving money by buying in bulk. But when a power outage causes all your food to spoil, the cost savings go down the drain. Having a generator protects your investment and preserves your cost savings.
These are just a few of the most popular reasons to invest in a portable home generator. Depending on your needs, you can probably think of lots more. When you’re ready to learn more, give us a call. We’ll be happy to help.
6 Tips to Keep Your RV Generator Running Smoothly
A generator is a big financial investment, and it’s also an investment in peace of mind. Knowing your RV generator is up and ready to go means you’ll be ready for adventure at a moment’s notice. Following just a few simple guidelines can help ensure your RV generator lasts as long as possible:
Practice regular preventive maintenance.
Your generator manufacturer will provide guidelines regarding how often to perform maintenance activities as well as the types of maintenance that needs to be performed for optimal performance. Generally speaking, regular maintenance includes cleaning, inspecting and lubricating the components of your generator and running it to make sure it’s operating properly. You’ll also need to check the exhaust system and any connections and gaskets for wear. Regular maintenance is the most important thing you can do to prolong your generator’s life.
Keep plenty of supplies on hand.
Having oil, filters and basic maintenance and repair supplies and tools makes it easy to perform preventive and scheduled maintenance and to make minor repairs or adjustments so your generator runs properly. It’s very easy to postpone maintenance when you find you don’t have the materials you need. Make it as convenient as possible by keeping a good stock on hand.
Protect your generator during “down time.”
For long-term storage, change the oil and filter and follow any other instructions in your user manual regarding fuel, gaskets and connections. Adding a fuel stabilizer helps prevent gunky buildup in your engine or tank.
Optimize it for your weather.
Changes in temperature can result in a need for a different thickness – or viscosity – of oil to help your generator’s part stay lubricated and avoid harmful friction. Very cold weather causes oil to become thicker, so switching to an oil with a lower viscosity may make good sense. Check your operator’s manual for guidelines for your unit.
Run it occasionally – even if you don’t need to.
Running your generator on a regular basis throughout the year helps you spot problems early and it also keeps the system properly lubricated to extend motor life. Plus, the heat from the generator motor prevents moisture buildup that can cause components to break down and allow rust to form.
Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines.
Different generators have different maintenance requirements and operational guidelines that change over time. Don’t think you “know it all” simply because you’ve used a generator in the past. Take some time to read your manuals and get to know your RV generator – both the way it works and little signs during operation that could indicate it’s in need of maintenance or repair.
And of course, always operate your generator outside and away from your home to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Install a carbon monoxide detector if your RV doesn’t have one, and make sure the exhaust system is in good shape before running your generator. Need some help? Call us at (732) 536-0444.
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