MECCA POWER MONTHLY NEWS-November

By following these tips for generator winter preparation, you can be more confident that your generator will be ready to provide backup power when you need it.

USE AN ENGINE BLOCK HEATER

An engine block heater (also called a water jacket heater or an engine pre-heater) combats the issues that cold temperatures present for starting generators, so they can be your best friend when you need backup power in the winter.

WARM YOUR BATTERY AND KEEP IT CHARGED

If your generator uses a lead-acid battery, exposure to below-freezing temperatures can even reduce it to functioning at less than half its capacity. One solution is to make sure your battery stays charged.

MAKE SURE YOUR FUEL IS STILL LIQUID

Diesel fuel can sometimes gel in very cold temperatures, and if this happens then your generator won't start soon. Make sure the fuel in your tank is treated accordingly with anti-gel and anti-microbial additives.

PROTECT OPENINGS FROM FROZEN PRECIPITATION

Air intake ports can allow more than just air to get into your generator. Precipitation, such as ice, snow or sleet, can also make it into air intake ports and can obstruct airflow. To protect air intake ports from horizontal-blowing precipitation, install snow hoods or louvers.

UPGRADE TO A NEWER MODEL

When the cold weather hits, you need to be aware that some of the older models may struggle to start up. Some may not even turn on at all or light up which makes it difficult to read the gauge. Newer models will not have the issue but it is always important to check.