November 24, 2025
Englewood, CO Standby Generator Maintenance & Installation
Estimated Read Time: 11 minutes
Power outages do not send invitations. If you want reliable backup power, the question is simple: how often should you service your generator? For most Denver homes, a standby generator needs professional service at least once a year, with extra checks after long outages or severe weather. Done right, maintenance prevents no-start surprises, protects warranties, and keeps your family comfortable when the grid blinks. Read on for a clear schedule, what to expect during service, and Denver-specific tips.
Why generator maintenance matters in Colorado
Colorado’s climate tests equipment. We see fast temperature swings, afternoon lightning, and winter ice that can knock out power. Generators sit outside in these elements year round. Without routine service, seals dry out, batteries weaken, and fuel systems gum up. A simple annual visit often costs less than a single emergency repair and dramatically improves startup reliability.
Two local facts you should know:
- Most Denver whole home systems fall in the 16 kW to 24 kW range, but actual needs depend on a professional load calculation.
- Transfer switches for optional standby systems are governed by NEC Article 702. Proper installation and inspection are essential for safety and insurance compliance.
Fix-it 24/7 understands Colorado’s weather, altitude, and power infrastructure. We install and maintain systems with code compliance, reliability, and your comfort in mind.
How often should you service your generator?
The simple answer is at least once per year for a standby unit, plus service based on run-time and season. Portable units benefit from pre-season and post-season checks. Heavy usage or long outages may require an additional visit.
Standby whole home generators
- Annual professional service is the baseline. This maintains batteries, fuel system health, ignition, and lubrication. It also preserves most manufacturer warranties.
- Add a mid-season check if the unit ran more than 24 consecutive hours during an outage, or more than 50 total hours in a season.
- Exercise weekly. Most standby units self-test for 10 to 20 minutes. Verify that test runs are happening and that there are no alerts on the control panel.
Portable generators
- Service before storm season and again before storage. Replace fuel or stabilize it, change oil, and inspect spark plugs and filters.
- Run the unit monthly for 10 to 15 minutes under a light load to keep the carburetor from varnishing.
Commercial or heavy residential use
- If your generator supports medical equipment, a home business, or high-demand circuits, schedule service biannually and after any extended outage.
What a professional generator service includes
A high-quality service visit is more than an oil change. At Fix-it 24/7, preventive maintenance is designed to prevent failures before they disrupt your life.
Annual service checklist
- Full system inspection, tighten connections, and test transfer switch operation
- Load calculation review when you add big appliances or remodel
- Oil and oil filter replacement per manufacturer specs
- Air filter, fuel filter, and spark plug inspection and replacement as needed
- Battery test with replacement recommendations to avoid no-starts
- Control board diagnostics, fault history review, and firmware updates if applicable
- Verify weekly exercise settings and adjust for your schedule
- Enclosure, base, and weather seals inspection to protect against snow and wind
Mid-season or biannual checks
- Run-time based oil top-off or change if hours are high
- Propane or natural gas pressure and regulator check
- Combustion air and exhaust path clearing, especially after wind events
After an outage or long run time
- Fuel quality assessment
- Heat stress inspection on wiring and alternator
- Re-test automatic transfer and return-to-utility operation
Signs your generator needs service now
- It fails or struggles to start
- Alerts on the controller or abnormal exercise tests
- Fuel smells, leaks, or staining around connections
- Soot buildup on the exhaust or unusual vibration
- Lights dim or flicker when large loads kick on
- The unit ran for many hours during a storm without a follow-up check
If you notice any of these, call for service right away. Quick attention reduces repair costs and prevents bigger failures.
Fuel type maintenance differences
Natural gas and propane are common in Metro Denver. Diesel is less common for homes but appears in some commercial or rural settings.
- Natural gas: Reliable supply and clean operation. Maintenance focuses on ignition, air intake, and pressure checks. No fuel storage issues.
- Propane: Clean fuel with on-site storage. Maintain tank levels and regulators. Keep snow and ice clear from vents.
- Diesel: Powerful and robust, but fuel must be treated and rotated to prevent algae and gelling. Filters and water separators need closer attention.
Your service plan should match your fuel type and run-time profile.
Altitude, weather, and code in Denver
At elevation, manufacturers often derate engine output. Make sure your system was sized with altitude in mind. Heavy snow and wind can obstruct intake or exhaust, so keep clearances free. The automatic transfer switch must be installed to code and inspected. NEC Article 702 covers optional standby systems and ensures safe utility isolation. Fix-it 24/7 handles permits and inspection coordination so your installation is compliant from day one.
DIY tasks vs professional work
You can support reliability with simple homeowner tasks:
- Keep the area clear of snow, leaves, and debris.
- Check the controller weekly for error codes after the exercise run.
- For propane, confirm tank level and keep regulators accessible.
- After a storm, look for damage or loose panels.
Leave the following to licensed pros:
- Transfer switch testing and any utility-side work
- Gas line adjustments and leak checks
- Load calculations and wiring changes for new appliances
- Control board diagnostics and firmware updates
Maintenance plans, costs, and scheduling
Preventive maintenance programs spread costs out and keep you on schedule. Members often receive priority scheduling, regular cleanings, and discounted repairs. Fix-it 24/7 offers same-day service availability and 24/7 emergency repair when outages strike at night. Transparent flat-rate pricing means you know the number before work starts.
What drives cost:
- Generator size and fuel type
- Run-time since last service and post-outage needs
- Parts such as batteries, plugs, and filters
- Accessibility and local permitting when upgrades are needed
A well-maintained system usually saves money by avoiding emergency failures and extending equipment life.
From installation to lifetime care
Fix-it 24/7 delivers end-to-end support:
- System selection and professional load calculation so your generator covers what matters
- Transfer switch installation for seamless power switching
- Fuel system setup for natural gas or propane
- Permit acquisition and inspection coordination to ensure full code compliance
- Preventive maintenance, repairs, and 24/7 emergency service for every stage of ownership
- Flexible financing options to make installation more affordable
We service many major generator brands and provide guidance on when a unit is better repaired or replaced.
Repair vs replace: when to choose
Consider replacement if any of these are true:
- The generator is over its typical service life and needs frequent repairs.
- Major parts such as the alternator or control board have failed and parts are scarce.
- Your home has added loads that push the system beyond safe capacity.
Choose repair when failures are limited to wearable items or sensors and the unit is otherwise healthy. Our team will provide honest recommendations after a thorough inspection.
Local scheduling tips for the Front Range
- Book annual service in early spring before thunderstorm season hits Denver, Aurora, and Lakewood.
- After a long winter storm, schedule a quick check even if the unit started fine.
- If you are in Boulder, Lafayette, or Longmont where winds are stronger, verify intake and exhaust clearances after gusty days.
- For Arvada, Westminster, and Centennial homeowners, consider a mid-season check if you rely on medical devices or home offices.
Consistent care keeps your generator ready for the next outage, whether it is a lightning strike or an icy branch on the lines.
What Homeowners Are Saying
"Nico and Tyler were amazing! Thank you for the efficient and clean install. I appreciated learning about the company’s awesome maintenance subscription plan too!!"
–Greg Z., Generator Installation
"Greg (electrician) and Nick (plumber) are great. Fix it is top of the line. Sometimes too pricey for me for new installations due to their very high standards but they are my go to people for maintenance. So happy I became a member"
–Fabian L., Maintenance Member
"We have had great service from fixIt 24/7. They have done a lot of work for us and we are members of their maintenance program which comes with regular cleaning and maintenance, and discounts on services. We are very happy with their workmanship and service."
–Jim S., Maintenance Program
"We had an emergency late at night, and their team arrived fast and ready to help. They diagnosed the issue quickly and walked us through the repair plan before starting anything at all."
–Sydney W., Emergency Repair
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a standby home generator be serviced?
Most standby generators need professional service once a year, plus an extra check after long outages or 50 or more run hours in a season. Always follow your manufacturer’s schedule to protect the warranty.
Do I need to test my generator every week?
Yes. Most systems run an automatic weekly exercise for 10 to 20 minutes. Check the control panel for alerts and listen for smooth operation. Call if tests fail or sound unusual.
What does annual generator maintenance include?
Expect oil and filter changes, battery testing, air and fuel filter service, spark plugs as needed, transfer switch testing, diagnostics, and inspection of wiring, seals, and enclosure.
How does altitude in Denver affect my generator?
Engines can produce less power at elevation. Make sure your system was sized with altitude in mind, and verify it passes a professional load calculation.
Who handles permits and inspections for new installations?
Fix-it 24/7 acquires permits and coordinates inspections as part of installation, ensuring NEC Article 702 compliance and a safe transfer switch setup.
Conclusion
Routine service is the secret to reliable backup power. For most Denver homes, schedule annual maintenance, verify weekly exercise, and book a check after long outages. With proper care, your generator will start when the lights go out and keep your home safe and comfortable.
Call to Action
Need generator maintenance or an installation consultation in Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, or Boulder? Call Fix-it 24/7 at (720) 734-7243 or schedule online at https://fixmyhome.com/. Same-day service available and 24/7 emergency repair when you need it most.
Call Fix-it 24/7 now at (720) 734-7243 or visit https://fixmyhome.com/ to book your generator service. Same-day appointments available and 24/7 emergency response across the Denver Metro.
About Fix-it 24/7 Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric
We are Denver’s trusted, family-owned team for standby generator installation, maintenance, and repair. Our licensed and insured Colorado electricians handle permits, inspections, and code compliance. We back our work with an A+ BBB rating, thousands of 5-star reviews, and a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Awards include Angie’s List Super Service and HomeAdvisor Top Rated. Same-day service and 24/7 emergency response keep your home powered when it matters.