When you invested in a Generac home standby generator, you did it to protect your home and family from the stress of an unexpected power outage. In a place like Fort Wayne, Indiana—where summer storms and winter ice can knock out electricity in an instant—backup power means peace of mind. But here’s the thing: if you don’t stick to a regular generator maintenance schedule, you might find out too late that your system isn’t ready when it counts most.
In this blog, we’ll walk through what routine maintenance your whole home generator needs, why it matters, and how Doc Dancer Plumbing, Heating, AC & Generators can help you stay powered up with trusted generator maintenance services in Fort Wayne, IN, and the surrounding areas.
What Maintenance Do Home Generators Need?
Your Generac generator is a complex machine with an engine, fuel system, electrical components, and safety mechanisms—just like a car. And like a car, it needs regular care to perform reliably. Here are the most important maintenance tasks that keep your generator healthy and ready.
Oil and Filter Changes
Just like your vehicle, your generator needs clean oil to maintain engine health and avoid unnecessary wear. Dirty oil can cause the engine to overheat or seize. We recommend changing the oil and replacing the filter at least once a year, or more often depending on run time. Skipping this can shorten your generator’s service life and leave you without backup power when you need it most.
Battery Inspection and Testing
The battery is the heart of your generator’s starting system. Without it, your unit won’t kick on during an emergency. During maintenance, we test the battery voltage, clean the terminals, and check for signs of corrosion. A weak or corroded battery might mean your system fails to start on a stormy night—right when you need it to provide power to your house.
Air Filter and Spark Plug Replacement
Your generator’s engine needs clean air to run efficiently. Over time, air filters clog with dirt and debris, and spark plugs wear down. Replacing these components improves fuel combustion, reduces emissions, and boosts efficiency. A neglected filter can even cause your unit to stall or shut down mid-operation.
Fuel System Checks
Whether your generator runs on natural gas, propane, or gasoline, a clean and properly functioning fuel system is key. We check for corrosion, fuel leaks, and pressure issues. In systems using propane or gas, we also inspect the fuel lines and valves. Blockages or degraded hoses can cause performance issues or pose safety hazards.
Load Testing
Load testing simulates the conditions of a real power outage. We apply an electrical load to your generator to verify that it can handle the demands of your home. This test can catch problems with your system’s output or transfer switch before they cause a failure. It’s one of the most important steps in any comprehensive generator maintenance service.
Carbon Monoxide Safety and Ventilation Checks
A key part of any inspection is making sure your generator is safely venting exhaust away from your home. Improper installation or a blocked vent can cause dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. During every visit, we double-check clearances, ventilation, and safety mechanisms to keep your home protected.
What does Generac recommend? Generac suggests annual service from a professional technician to keep your whole home generator in top condition. As a trusted supplier and installer, Doc Dancer follows the manufacturer’s guidelines to the letter. Our team knows what your Generac system needs—inside and out.
Doc Dancer’s Generator Maintenance Service Protects and Prolongs Your Equipment
At Doc Dancer Plumbing, Heating, AC & Generators, we install, service, and maintain Generac home standby generators throughout Fort Wayne and the surrounding communities. We know these systems aren’t just appliances—they’re your safety net. That’s why we treat every Generac generator maintenance visit with the care and attention it deserves.
You should schedule generator maintenance once a year, typically in early spring or late fall, depending on your usage. Our trained technicians take care of everything from full system diagnostics to engine checks, load testing, and safety inspections. Each appointment takes about an hour or two, depending on the unit, and we’ll walk you through what we find and what (if anything) needs attention. Our technicians are also fully qualified to complete generator repairs.
When you choose us, you’re not just another stop on the route. You’re our neighbor. We’re committed to keeping your generator ready for anything—because we know what’s at stake if it’s not.
Schedule Generator Maintenance in Fort Wayne With Us
Doc Dancer Plumbing, Heating, AC & Generators has been serving Fort Wayne homeowners since 1946. We offer a complete line of generator services, from installation to inspection, repair, and routine care. We’ll talk to you about your system, assess what it needs, and create a maintenance schedule you can count on—so your home standby generator is ready when you are.
Ready to set up a service visit? Contact us today to book your generator maintenance in Fort Wayne or surrounding areas. Let’s make sure your backup power system is there for you, no matter the weather.