When dark clouds roll in, and the first rumble of thunder shakes your windows, the last thing you want to discover is that your propane generator won't start. After sitting idle through winter and early spring, your backup power system may need attention before severe weather arrives in the Four-State region.
Common Start-Up Problems After Sitting Idle
Your propane generator faces several challenges when it's been dormant for months. Battery connections can corrode, fluids can settle or degrade, and small animals sometimes nest in or around the unit. Even a thin layer of dust on electrical connections can prevent proper start-up when you need power most.
The most frequent issue is a dead or weak battery. Just like your vehicle, a generator battery loses charge over time, especially during cold winter months. Without regular exercise runs, the battery may not have enough power to crank the engine when a storm knocks out your electricity.
Fuel system problems also emerge after extended periods of inactivity. While propane doesn't degrade like gasoline, the fuel lines and regulators can develop leaks or blockages. Condensation in fuel lines creates another potential failure point that only reveals itself when you need the system to work.
Why Professional Pre-Season Maintenance Matters
A professional inspection catches these issues before the first thunderstorm leaves you in the dark. Qualified technicians test battery voltage, inspect fuel connections, verify proper oil levels, and run your propane generator through its paces to ensure everything operates correctly.
Beyond basic functionality, professionals check safety features that protect your home and family. Transfer switches must engage properly to prevent back-feeding electricity into utility lines—a dangerous situation for line workers and your neighbors. Exhaust systems need inspection to ensure carbon monoxide vents safely away from your home.
Regular maintenance also extends your generator's lifespan and protects your investment. Catching small problems early prevents expensive emergency repairs when storms hit, and technicians are overwhelmed with service calls.
Storm Season Readiness Checklist
Start preparing now for thunderstorm season:
- Clear debris from around your propane generator to ensure proper ventilation.
- Trim back any vegetation that has grown too close to the unit in the spring.
- Check that your fuel tank has adequate propane — you don't want to run out mid-outage.
Test your system monthly during storm season. A quick five-minute run under load ensures everything works correctly and keeps components lubricated. If you notice unusual sounds, vibrations, or smells during testing, schedule professional service immediately.
Protect Your Home and Peace of Mind
Your propane generator is your home's first defense against power outages during severe weather. Don't wait until lightning strikes to find out your backup system isn't ready.
Ipock Electric & Solar provides expert propane generator service and maintenance for homeowners and businesses throughout Joplin, MO, and the Four-State region. Our certified technicians ensure your backup power system starts reliably when you need it most. Schedule service today to prepare your generator for storm season.