Get Ready for Cold Weather: Ensure Your Generator Is Winterized

It’s easy to forget about your generator in Newton, MA until winter hits, the power goes out, and your generator doesn’t work the way it should. If you live in the Eastern Mass area, that’s usually during the worst possible time, from heavy snow to high winds or ice on the roads. When the winter peaks in the Northeast, you want the heat on, the fridge running, and the lights holding strong for a cozy night in. 

A generator can supply electricity when your power is out, but only if it’s actually ready. The winter weather is when generators fail most often. It’s not necessarily because anything is wrong with your unit, but because they’ve been sitting quietly for months without attention. 

Our team at Castle Electric is here with generator winterizing tips to make sure you’re ready for the season. 

Why Cold Weather Exposes Generator Problems

Generators need some attention during the frigid winter weather. Batteries can lose strength and fuel doesn’t behave the same way it does during the warmer summer months. Moisture can also find its way into places it shouldn’t. If a generator hasn’t run in several months, you might see its issues when a winter storm shows up.

Power outages around Newton aren’t always short. Losing power can last for hours or days, which isn’t unusual during a severe winter storm. When a generator struggles to start or shuts down unexpectedly, it’s more than an inconvenience. It also impacts your heat, food, and basic comfort.

Winter Generator Maintenance Is a Must-Have

A generator is an engine that needs routine care. If you skimp on it because it worked fine last season, you could end up dealing with oil, coolant, battery, and fuel delivery issues. Don’t wait until the power goes out. Give us a call at Castle Electric to look over the connections, filters, and other areas of your generator to make sure everything is working the way it should. 

Run Your Generator Before the Storms Start

One of the simplest ways to avoid problems is to give your generator a test run before the winter season hits. Generators that sit unused are far more likely to fail.

Testing your generator in advance makes sure it starts up properly, runs smoothly, and carries the load you need to keep your home running. It also gives you a chance to hear anything that doesn’t sound right or notice warning lights you might otherwise miss.

Weather Protection Makes a Difference

Snow, ice, and moisture are tough on equipment. Generators need the right protection that keeps weather out without blocking airflow. Improvised covers or poorly ventilated enclosures can cause more harm than good. Moisture buildup leads to corrosion, frozen components can prevent startup, and proper winter-rated protection helps keep the generator dry and operating the way it should.

Transfer Switches Need Attention

A generator isn’t useful if power can’t safely reach your home. Both manual and automatic transfer switches are a critical part of the system. If a transfer switch isn’t working correctly, the generator may run but not supply power where it’s needed. A faulty switch can quickly lead to safety issues, making it crucial to add this to your generator maintenance plan.

Fuel Issues Can Show Up During the Winter

Fuel is another area that often gets overlooked. 

• Old fuel
• Contaminated fuel
• Fuel that hasn’t been treated properly

All of these fuel issues can cause starting and performance problems, but cold weather makes them even more noticeable. Make sure your generator’s fuel is fresh and appropriate for winter conditions.

Get Peace of Mind Before the Weather Turns with Castle Electric

When winter storms hit, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your generator will start. Taking time to prepare now can save you from cold nights, spoiled food, and unnecessary stress later.

If you rely on a generator to keep your home running during outages, Castle Electric can help make sure it’s ready. Schedule your winter generator maintenance before the next storm hits!