The nose knows when it comes to tracking down strange odors inside your home. If you notice a persistent smell resembling the scent of burning plastic, it could be a warning sign that something suspicious is going on with your electrical system.

HomeOps

631.509.2000

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Refrigerated food and uninterrupted Wi-Fi are just some of the luxuries you enjoy with a whole-house generator. During temperature extremes, your family will stay safe and comfy with continued heating and cooling. You rely on your generator for security, so you should be sure it works when you need it.

First step—be sure to install it correctly. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) strongly recommends having your generator installed professionally. That will ensure that everything is up to code, and you won’t run into any safety issues.

HomeOps has a team of trusted professionals who are well-versed in installing generators for Smithtown homes and businesses. We are also experts in troubleshooting faulty generators and can provide the maintenance you need. We’re pleased to meet the energy needs of our New York neighbors.

How to Maintain Your Generator

Whole-house generators—also known as standby generators—have a life span of 20 to 40 years. Since your Smithtown generator only gets occasional use, it can easily slip under your radar. However, it does require a bit of maintenance now and then.

Here are a few simple ways you can make sure everything stays up to speed:

• Keep an ear out for your generator’s weekly test run. A healthy generator automatically performs a test run once every week. This is to ensure that all of the parts are lubricated. If you notice any odd noises or it doesn’t start up at the scheduled time, have a professional check it out.

• Keep your generator clean. You want to be sure it stays clear of any debris, which can make it overheat. Trim any greenery that grows near it, leaving at least two feet of breathing room. Additionally, clean off any leaves, twigs, or dirt that fall onto it.

• Reserve a supply of oil. In the event of a power outage, you want to be prepared. When it’s running, you should check your oil levels roughly every eight hours. If the outage is long-term, shut off your power once daily and refill.

• Change out the spark plugs. These are the trusty parts that enable your generator’s starting mechanism. Ideally, replace them once every two years, sometimes sooner, depending on their condition. If you’re not confident, let a HomeOps pro show you how to do it! It’s also a good habit to inspect them for damage occasionally. Look for any black spots (from oil or soot), warping, or melting.

Need your generator serviced?

Our team at HomeOps does our best to keep you informed so that you can get the most mileage out of your home assets. If you have any follow-up questions, don’t hesitate to call our Smithtown, NY offices today at 631-509-2000. You can also request service online quickly and conveniently.

The post Maintaining Your Whole-House Generator appeared first on HomeOps.

When working with electrical equipment outside, be sure to follow basic outdoor electrical safety procedures.

For installation or repairs, always have a qualified electrician do the electrical work. Call us if you have any questions or before beginning any kind of electrical maintenance.

HomeOps

631.509.2000

The post Video – Outdoor Electrical Safety appeared first on HomeOps.

Keep your home safe from fire and electrocution by understanding basic indoor electrical safety procedures.

Be sure to check extension cords, light bulbs, outlets, appliances, etc. for anything that could be hazardous.

For installation or repairs, always have a qualified electrician do the electrical work.

Call us if you have any questions or before beginning any kind of electrical maintenance.

 631.509.2000

The post Video – Indoor Electrical Safety appeared first on HomeOps.