4 Steps to Take as Soon as Your Portable Generator Arrives

Whether your portable generator will be used to supply power during a blackout, for outdoor activities, or both, taking the following steps once it arrives will ensure that your new power source is operated safely and efficiently.

* Select the locations where your generator will be positioned – This is a critical step regardless of how your generator will be used. You’ll want to plan its positioning so that it does not expose people to carbon monoxide emissions while also having it close enough for extension cords to reach the appliances, lighting or equipment that the generator will power. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations as meted out in your operator’s manual to ensure that your generator operates from a safe location.
* If rain is going to be an issue, install a shelter to protect the generator – Electricity and water don’t mix, meaning that if your generator will be running during rainy weather you’ll want to protect it with a well-ventilated shelter. If there is the potential for water to seep in underneath your sheltered generator, elevate it with blocks or a platform to prevent the risk of operation in standing water.
* Buy extension cords rated for heavy loads and exterior use – Determine the items that will be powered by the generator and buy the appropriate number of extension cords. These extension cords will have three prongs and be able to transfer the heavier electrical currents that are produced by the generator. Light duty extension cords can overload quickly, presenting a fire hazard.
* Do a practice run – Before putting your portable generator into action, do a full practice run. If the machine will have to be moved into position, include that task as part of the practice regimen. A dry run can alert you to unforeseen challenges, allowing you to prepare for them in advance.

Taking these steps upon the arrival of your portable generator will allow you to plan for its use. The time spent in preparation can help you avoid the alternative of learning on the fly in the minutes before an event or in the dark after the power goes down.

3 Things to Do with Your Snowblower Now

Removing snow may not be the first thing on your mind at the moment, but taking these steps now will help to ensure that your snowblower tackles the first snowfall with ease and efficiency.

1) Check to see how your snowblower is handling its time in storage – A lot can happen while your snowblower sits in storage, so now is a good time to see how things are going. If you covered the machine when it went into storage, pull the cover off to make sure that moisture hasn’t been trapped. If you smell mildew, check the cover for dampness and look for areas where melting snow may have accumulated. Generally speaking, plastic covers are great moisture traps and if you didn’t do much in the way of cleaning your snowblower at the end of last season, there’s a good chance that you’ll have some water in there. If there is, dry the machine and leave the cover off to allow water to escape.
2) Lubricate the moving parts – This prevents parts from freezing up while in storage. Lubricate the drive gears, the chain, impeller gears, etc.
3) Check belts for signs of drying and cracking – Garages and storage structures can get extremely hot and dry in the summer months, which can dry out and weaken the belts. Drying will take place even faster if your snowblower is being stored in an area that receives direct sunlight. If belts are cracking, switch them out now. If your machine is getting direct sunlight, move it to a space where it will be out of the sun’s reach.

Winter is closer than it may seem now. Taking these actions now will help to keep your snowblower ready when the weather turns cold and your driveway loads up with snow.