How To Get Your Generator Ready for Fall & Winter— Essential Maintenance Guide
As the leaves start to fall and the temperatures begin to drop, it’s a good time to ask yourself: Is your generator ready for the season ahead?
At W.J. Whitley Electric & Communications LLC, we’ve seen firsthand how Virginia’s fall storms and unexpected winter outages can leave homes in the dark. That’s why October is the perfect month to perform a generator check-up and make sure your system is ready to keep you powered through the colder months.
🔌 Why Fall Generator Maintenance Matters
Generators are like any other major appliance—they need regular maintenance to stay reliable. Ignoring small issues now can lead to big problems later, especially during a storm when you need power the most.
Here’s why seasonal maintenance is so important:
Cold weather can strain your generator if it hasn’t been serviced properly.
Dust, debris, and old fuel can clog up filters and fuel lines.
Battery failure is one of the top reasons generators fail—and that’s often preventable.
🛠️ 5 Generator Maintenance Tips for October
If you own a standby or portable generator, here are a few steps you can take this month:
Check the Oil & Air Filter
Top off or replace the oil and inspect the air filter. Clean or swap it out if it looks dirty.
Inspect the Battery
Make sure your generator battery is charged and corrosion-free. Replace it if it’s more than 3 years old.
Run a Test Cycle
Start the generator and let it run for 15–20 minutes to ensure everything is working properly.
Inspect for Visible Wear or Damage
Look for loose wires, cracked hoses, or leaks. These are red flags that your system needs attention.
Schedule a Professional Service
Even if your generator seems fine, a professional inspection can catch issues before they become costly.
⚡ Need Help? Let the Pros Take Care of It
As an authorized Briggs & Stratton dealer with over 50 years of experience, we know what it takes to keep your generator in top shape. Whether you need a seasonal check-up, a repair, or a full system replacement, we’re here to help!
And the best part? We offer free estimates so you can plan with confidence.
📅 Don’t wait for a power outage to realize your generator isn’t working. Contact W.J. Whitley Electric & Communications LLC today to schedule your fall generator service.
📞 Call us at 804-693-1256
📍 Serving Gloucester, the Middle Peninsula, and Northern Neck