Skip Navigation

Maryland’s Premier Residential and Commercial Electrician
Also Serving DC, Northern Virginia and Southern Pennsylvania

Schedule an Appointment Today! Generac Authorized Dealer See our Blog! (410) 799-5791
or (301) 384-8880

Usual Reasons Your Generator Might Be Failing

Usual Reasons Your Generator Might Be Failing

Although generators work well during emergencies, they do need proper care to prevent future failures.

A backup generator will give you peace of mind when the power suddenly goes out at your home or business. Although generators work well during emergencies, they do need proper care to prevent future failures. If you haven’t tested or maintained your generator lately, it might not be as ready as you think. The electricians from TriStar Electric in Maryland are here to share some information to help prepare your generator for possible power outages. Read on for a few of the top generator failure cases and how you can avoid them!

A Lack of Maintenance

Neglect is one of the common causes of a backup generator failing. Like any engine, generators require regular maintenance to keep them working properly. Over time, oil breaks down, filters clog, and components can wear out. Although these problems might seem small, they can lead to serious breakdowns if they’re left unchecked. To prevent it, you should schedule annual and semiannual maintenance with our team. We can change the oil and filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and inspect the hoses, belts, and battery terminals for any signs of corrosion or wear.

Weak or Dead Generator Battery

One other reason why a generator will not start is battery failure. Generator batteries can discharge over time or become quite weak. Age, corrosion, and extreme weather conditions can shorten their lifespan. To prevent it, you need to test your battery normally and have it cleaned by professionals. Generator batteries last around three years, and even if they work fine, you should replace them before then. We can also test your battery to make sure it’s working properly.

Fueling Issues

If you wonder why your generator does not start, there could be fueling problems. Fueling problems can prevent your generator from running or starting efficiently. Fuel can become stale if it sits too long without any stabilizers. This means you could also have a clogged fuel line. To prevent this from happening, make sure you drain the fuel from the tank and clean the fuel system to help restore function. You might also need to check the fuel lines to make sure there is a consistent supply and correct pressure levels.

For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!

No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!

If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s’ premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.

Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s’ List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau.

This entry was posted on Friday, March 6th, 2026 at 12:25 pm. Both comments and pings are currently closed.