When you first install a new generator, you know that you have years of reliable protection ahead of you. But, as with all things, your generator wears down over time. You can invest in regular maintenance and take the best care of your generator, but you’ll still need to replace it eventually.
The question is how do you know if it’s time to invest in generator replacement in Mundelein, IL? Some problems your generator may face are easy to fix so you can extend the life of your current unit. There comes a point that the cost of repairs outweighs the cost of replacing your generator with a new one.
How Long Does a Generator Last?
While we measure the life of heaters and air conditioners in years, we measure the life of generators in hours of use. You can expect your generator to last for somewhere between 700 and 1,500 hours of active use. How many years your generator lasts depends on how often you need to use your generator for power outages. Keep in mind that your generator’s lifespan greatly depends on how well you care for the unit.
Signs That it’s Time to Install a New Generator
Difficulty Starting Up
Your generator should start up automatically when it senses a loss of power to your home. There’s shouldn’t be a hesitation between your power going out and your generator turning on. If you notice that your generator is struggling to turn on and power your home, first check the transfer switch.
If that is working correctly, then the problem is likely your generator. You can call for a tune-up to see if our experts can find and fix the problem. If your generator continues to struggle, that may be an early sign that a replacement is in your future.
Fuel Use
The cost of running a generator to power your home should be close to even compared to powering your home with electricity. If you notice rapidly increasing fuel costs during the months your generator runs, it may be burning fuel faster than it should. Your generator loses efficiency slowly over time, but it reaches a point where it becomes more expensive to operate than to invest in a brand-new unit.
Unequal Power
When your generator is powering your home, everything should work as though nothing is different. If you notice lights flickering or feel like your appliances aren’t receiving consistent power, that’s a problem. Your generator can lose efficiency in how much it can power, too. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice which appliances you power and which ones you don’t.
Frequent Repairs
Is our team visiting your home several times per year to check your generator for problems? While we love seeing our customers, we shouldn’t have to service your generator that often. If you’re spending a lot on repairs, it may be time to say goodbye to your older generator. Instead, you can put repair costs toward a new generator that offers better reliability and efficiency.
Carbon Monoxide
If your generator is already past its lifespan and still working, it may be emitting carbon monoxide into the air you breathe. If you have any gas-powered appliance you need a carbon monoxide detector. And if that detector signals that there is carbon monoxide in the air around your generator, it’s definitely time for a replacement. Breathing in these fumes can make you and your family very sick.
Contact Althoff Home Services today to schedule an appointment with our professionals. Chicago’s Choice Since 1961. Hand It Off to Althoff!