A lot of people have asked why we’re changing our name, and it’s a fair question. We’ve been known as Quality In Strafford County, we don’t just have “weather” we have seasons that test the limits of our infrastructure. From the heavy ice storms in Dover to the high-wind events that sweep through Somersworth and Rochester, a power outage isn’t a matter of if, but when.
At Loyal Lab Electric & Generators, we see firsthand how a lack of preparation can turn a minor storm into a week-long household crisis. To help you stay powered, we’ve put together this essential guide to emergency generator readiness.
Why Strafford County Residents Need a Readiness Plan
Our local grid faces unique challenges. According to recent utility data, New Hampshire frequently experiences outages due to:
- Heavy Ice & Snow: The “weight” of New Hampshire winters often brings down limbs onto lines in wooded neighborhoods.
- High Wind Advisories: Coastal gusts can knock out power to thousands in minutes.
- Summer Grid Overload: Peak AC usage during heatwaves puts immense strain on aging local transformers.
5 Steps to Ensure Your Generator Starts When the Lights Go Out
1. The “Exercise” Routine
Just like a car that sits too long, a generator’s seals can dry out and fuel can degrade.
- The Fix: Most modern standby generators (like Generac or Kohler) have an automatic weekly exercise cycle. If yours doesn’t, or if you use a portable unit, run it for 20 minutes once a month to circulate oil and verify the battery is charging.
2. Battery Health Check
The #1 reason generators fail to start is a dead battery. In the freezing Strafford County winters, battery capacity can drop by 50% or more.
- The Fix: Inspect terminals for corrosion and have your battery “load tested” annually. If your battery is over 3 years old, replace it before the first snowfall.
3. Fresh Fuel & Stabilizers
For portable generators, old gas is the enemy. It gums up carburetors and prevents starting.
- The Fix: Always use a fuel stabilizer if you keep gas in the tank. If you have a standby unit running on propane or natural gas, ensure your tank levels are at least 50% full before a predicted storm.
4. Clear the Perimeter
Airflow is critical. If your generator’s intake or exhaust is blocked by autumn leaves or drifting snow, the unit will overheat or shut down due to carbon monoxide buildup.
- The Fix: Maintain a 5-foot “clear zone” around your unit. After a blizzard, prioritize shoveling a path to your generator to ensure it can breathe.
5. Professional Annual Maintenance
While DIY checks are great, a licensed electrician can spot issues you might miss—like frayed wiring, worn spark plugs, or a faulty transfer switch.
- The Fix: Schedule a “Pre-Season Tune-Up.” This ensures your system is calibrated and the automatic transfer switch (ATS) is ready to bridge the gap between the grid and your home.
Local Expertise You Can Trust
At Loyal Lab Electric & Generators, we don’t just service equipment; we protect homes in Dover, Somersworth, and across Strafford County. Our team of licensed experts specializes in:
- Whole-Home Generator Installation
- Emergency Repair & Diagnostics
- Transfer Switch Upgrades
- Comprehensive Maintenance Plans
Don’t wait for the next “State of Emergency” to find out your generator isn’t working. [Click here to schedule your Generator Safety Inspection] or call us today at (603)-634-8610.
