Generators are built to offer peace of mind during emergencies—but even the most reliable system needs attention from time to time. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t recognize the early signs of trouble until it’s too late. Regular inspections by professionals are the best way to ensure your generator performs when you need it most.
We often hear, “It was working fine last season,” right after a system fails during a storm. The truth is, like any mechanical system, a generator gives off warning signs before a major failure. The key is knowing what to look for—and when to call in a professional.
One of the most common red flags is delayed startup. If your generator takes longer than usual to kick on during a power outage or during its weekly self-test, that could point to battery issues, fuel delivery problems, or faulty sensors. These issues rarely fix themselves and usually worsen with time.
Another sign is frequent or unusual alarms from the control panel. Whether it’s a low battery alert, a system error, or a maintenance reminder, ignoring these messages can put your entire backup system at risk. We recommend calling for an inspection any time your system signals a fault—it’s better to resolve small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.
If your generator emits unusual sounds—grinding, sputtering, or loud backfires—don’t assume it’s just “settling in.” These noises can indicate clogged filters, ignition trouble, or failing components. Our technicians are trained to isolate and resolve these problems before they cause shutdowns.
Another red flag is excess fuel consumption. If you’re noticing your propane or natural gas supply depleting faster than normal during test runs, it could be a sign of a leak, an inefficient burn, or a malfunctioning regulator. Fuel-related issues not only affect performance but also increase operating costs and risk.
Visible rust, leaks, or corrosion around the generator enclosure, fuel lines, or electrical connections are also serious concerns. These can compromise the system’s safety and functionality—especially in coastal North Carolina where salt air accelerates wear. We include visual inspections as part of every professional service call to catch these problems early.
Another issue is missed self-tests. Most modern generators run a self-check every week to ensure readiness. If you haven’t heard it running in a while or notice that the weekly cycle isn’t happening, the control module or internal timer could be failing. A quick inspection will determine the cause and reset the schedule.
Finally, if your generator hasn’t been serviced in over a year—even if it appears to be working—it’s time for a checkup. Standby systems need periodic oil changes, battery testing, firmware updates, and load testing to remain fully operational. Skipping these services increases the risk of failure right when you need power most.
A professional inspection gives you more than a clean bill of health—it gives you confidence. We don’t just look for mechanical problems. We check for installation compliance, ventilation safety, fuel line integrity, and performance under load. It’s a full evaluation designed to keep your investment protected.
We also update system logs, verify warranty status, and provide service reminders tailored to your usage. Whether your generator is brand new or several years old, regular inspections are the best way to ensure it keeps doing its job without interruption.
Don’t wait until the lights go out to find out something’s wrong. If you’ve noticed any of these signs—or just want peace of mind—schedule a professional inspection with a licensed team that knows what to look for and how to keep your system storm-ready.
Contact Powerhound at (910) 296-3536 or visit our Facebook page to book your generator inspection today.
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