When severe weather is in the forecast, the last thing your business needs is uncertainty about whether your standby generator will operate when it’s needed. Power outages can disrupt operations and cost your business valuable time and money. That’s why it’s critical to proactively check your generator system before storms strike.
Here’s a quick Generator Preparedness Checklist every facility manager, property owner, or operations leader should review to ensure your business is storm-ready.
Don’t have a standby generator? Review this Emergency Power Plan to ensure you’re fully prepared to connect a temporary generator to your facility.
Generator Preparedness Checklist:
✅ Generator breaker should be set to the “ON” position
This may seem basic, but it’s one of the most common oversights. If the breaker is off, your generator won’t transfer power when an outage occurs.
✅ Generator control panel should be set to “AUTO” and free of alarms
The “AUTO” setting enables your generator to start automatically during a power failure. Also, check for any warning lights or alarms on the control panel — these can be early indicators of underlying issues that need immediate attention.
✅ Enclosure keys should be conveniently located and clearly labeled
In an emergency, time matters. Make sure the keys to your generator enclosure are easy to locate and labeled clearly so staff or service providers can access the unit without delay.
✅ Generator should be clearly labeled with contact information for service needs and emergency situations
Ensure your generator has up-to-date service contact information displayed on or near the unit. This simple step saves critical time if something goes wrong during an outage.
✅ The area around the generator should be clean and free from debris
Leaves, trash, and other materials can obstruct airflow or become a fire hazard. Keep the area surrounding your generator clear to ensure safe, efficient operation.
✅ Does your generator regularly exercise?
Automatic weekly or bi-weekly exercise cycles keep your system ready to go. Check your maintenance records to confirm these cycles are happening as scheduled.
✅ Does it run properly during exercise cycles?
It’s not just about if it runs — it’s how it runs. Be alert for unusual noises, vibrations, or signs of wear during these tests.
✅ Do common fail-points get checked regularly such as batteries, belts and hoses?
Components like batteries, belts and hoses are typical failure points, especially during long idle periods. Regular inspections and replacements are key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns when demand is high.
Not Fully Checked? We Can Help.
If you have questions about any of these items — or if you’re unsure how your system is performing — don’t wait until the storm hits. Our team specializes in business-critical generator service and maintenance to keep your power on and your operations running, no matter the weather.
Contact us today for a thorough inspection or preventive maintenance plan tailored to your facility’s needs.
Clifford Power Systems, Inc. provides dependable generator equipment, service, and rental. We are solely focused on power generation and offer professional consultation to meet all your project needs. Contact us at any of our locations in Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Kansas, or Arkansas.
Clifford Power is an authorized Generac® Industrial Energy dealer.