Hurricane season brings uncertainty, especially when it comes to keeping essential power systems running. Businesses that rely on standby generators understand their importance, but simply having one on hand isn’t enough. An emergency power solution that sits idle for months may not function properly when the power goes out. Taking the right steps before a storm ensures your generator performs when it matters most.
Make Sure Your Generator Is Ready Before the Storm
A standby generator is only reliable if it works when the power goes out. Many businesses assume their generator is ready simply because it ran properly the last time they tested it. However, long periods of inactivity can cause fuel degradation, battery failure, or mechanical wear that may not be obvious until the generator is needed.
Relying on a generator without proper preparation can lead to:
- Startup Failures – Fuel contamination, dead batteries, or clogged filters can prevent the generator from running.
- Insufficient Power Supply – An overloaded generator may struggle to support critical business operations.
- Compliance and Safety Risks – Improper installation or ventilation can create hazards and lead to regulatory violations.
- Delays in Repairs and Refueling – After a hurricane, service providers and fuel suppliers may be overwhelmed, making last-minute fixes difficult.
Ensuring your generator is truly storm-ready requires more than a quick inspection. Routine maintenance, fuel management, and operational testing are key to avoiding unexpected failures. For businesses without a dedicated backup system, securing emergency generator rentals in advance can provide a reliable safety net during extended outages. The following five steps will help businesses maximize reliability and keep operations powered during hurricane season.
1. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
Routine maintenance is essential to keeping a standby generator in top working condition. Even if a generator appears to function correctly, hidden issues such as fuel contamination, battery degradation, or clogged filters can cause failure during an emergency. Engaging certified technicians for routine servicing helps identify and resolve these problems before they escalate.
At a minimum, standby generators should be professionally inspected at least once a year. However, in hurricane-prone regions, semi-annual maintenance is recommended. Key maintenance tasks include:
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Frequency | Why It’s Important |
| Fuel system check | Every 3-6 months | Prevents contamination and blockages that can disrupt fuel flow. |
| Battery inspection | Quarterly | Ensures reliable starting during an outage. |
| Transfer switch testing | Annually | Confirms seamless transition between power sources. |
| Load bank testing | Annually | Verifies generator capacity and efficiency under real-world conditions. |
Skipping maintenance can lead to costly failures, so businesses should schedule service visits well before hurricane season to avoid last-minute issues.
2. Maintain an Adequate Fuel Supply
Without sufficient fuel, a standby generator is useless during an extended power outage. Fuel shortages are common after hurricanes, making advance planning essential. During Hurricane Milton, 24% of Florida’s gas stations ran out of fuel, with Tampa/St. Petersburg experiencing a staggering 62.3% outage. Other areas, including Sarasota (43.68%), Fort Myers/Naples (36.63%), and Orlando/Daytona Beach (28.17%), also faced widespread shortages.
As demand spikes before a storm, refueling delays can last for hours or even days. Businesses relying on standby generators cannot afford to wait until the last minute to secure fuel. To prevent fuel-related failures, businesses should:
- Keep fuel tanks as full as possible before hurricane season to avoid shortages.
- Regularly inspect stored fuel for contamination and degradation.
- Use fuel stabilizers for long-term storage to prevent gumming and varnish buildup.
- Ensure compliance with local storage regulations for safety and environmental protection.
For businesses using natural gas generators, verifying the integrity of supply lines and discussing contingency plans with the utility provider is crucial. Once a storm hits, fuel delivery services may be delayed, making proactive fuel management essential for uninterrupted power.
3. Conduct Routine Operational Tests
A generator that hasn’t been tested in months may not work when needed. Regular operational tests help identify potential problems and build confidence in the system’s reliability.
Recommended testing procedures include:
- Weekly or bi-weekly no-load tests to confirm the generator starts and runs properly.
- Monthly load tests to ensure the generator can handle actual power demands.
- Simulated power outage tests to verify the automatic transfer switch engages properly.
During testing, businesses should monitor for unusual noises, excessive smoke, or fluctuations in output. Any irregularities should be addressed immediately by a qualified technician to prevent unexpected failures during a real emergency. Proper testing is especially important when using industrial generators during a hurricane, as extreme weather conditions can put additional strain on equipment.
4. Ensure Proper Installation and Ventilation
Incorrect installation or poor ventilation can cause generator failures, overheating, or dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Businesses must ensure their generator is properly positioned and protected against hurricane-related hazards. Here are the key installation and placement considerations:
- Install the generator on an elevated, stable surface to prevent flooding.
- Position it at least 20 feet from building openings to reduce carbon monoxide risks.
- Secure the generator with anchor bolts to withstand strong winds.
- Use weather-resistant enclosures to protect against flying debris and heavy rain.
Businesses should also ensure ventilation systems are free from blockages to prevent overheating and exhaust buildup. Regularly clearing debris and ensuring proper airflow helps maintain efficiency and safety.
5. Develop a Comprehensive Emergency Power Plan
Beyond maintaining the generator itself, businesses must have a structured emergency power plan to ensure a coordinated response during outages.
Elements of a strong emergency power plan include:
- Clearly defined roles and responsibilities for staff before, during, and after power loss.
- Training sessions on safe generator operation, fuel handling, and troubleshooting.
- Communication protocols for updates on generator status and power restoration timelines.
- Coordination with generator service providers to ensure quick repairs if needed.
Regularly reviewing and updating the plan ensures all employees are prepared to respond effectively when a hurricane threatens business operations.
Post-Storm Generator Recovery and Inspection
Once a hurricane has passed, businesses should not assume their generator is immediately ready for continued operation. A post-storm inspection is necessary to ensure the unit is functioning safely and efficiently.
Key post-hurricane generator checks:
- Inspect fuel lines and tanks for leaks or damage.
- Check electrical components for moisture exposure.
- Assess for physical damage caused by flying debris or flooding.
- Ensure proper ventilation and clear any obstructions around exhaust outlets.
- Test generator startup and output performance under normal load conditions.
Addressing potential post-storm issues early ensures the generator remains operational for extended outages or future weather events.
Partner with Stag Power Rentals for Reliable Emergency Power Solutions
Ensuring uninterrupted power during hurricane season is key for business continuity. At Stag Power Rentals, we specialize in providing top-tier industrial generator rentals tailored to meet your specific needs.
Our services include:
- A diverse fleet of generators ranging from 20kW to 2000kW, suitable for various applications.
- Flexible rental options to accommodate both short-term and long-term requirements.
- Expert installation and maintenance services by certified technicians.
- Comprehensive support and consultation to develop effective hurricane contingency plans.
With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, Stag Power Rentals is your trusted partner in navigating the challenges of hurricane season.
Request a quote today to find the right power solution for your business and ensure your operations remain resilient in the face of severe weather.
