Preparing for Southlake Storm Season: Is Your Generator Ready?

When storm season rolls in, it often brings the threat of high winds, heavy rain, and power outages in Southlake, and the surrounding area. Whether it’s a summer thunderstorm or a late-season hurricane, the best time to prepare is before the first storm hits. If you own a backup generator, it can be your lifeline when the grid goes down—but only if it’s in good working order.

Here’s your seasonal guide, courtesy of Generator Authority, to making sure your generator is ready when you need it most.

Why Generator Maintenance Matters Before Storm Season

Generators sit idle for long stretches of the year, often collecting dust until an emergency arises. Unfortunately, waiting until a storm knocks out power is not the time to discover a dead battery, bad fuel, or a faulty sensor. Routine testing and servicing ensure that your generator will start up reliably and run safely for extended periods when the power goes out. Proper preparation now can save you frustration—and potentially dangerous downtime—later.

Step 1: Start With a Visual Inspection

Begin your storm-season prep with a thorough visual inspection of your generator. Look for obvious issues like corrosion, loose wires, cracked hoses, leaks, or rodent nests.

Check that the unit is clean and dry, especially around the control panel and exhaust area. Make sure nothing is blocking airflow or the exhaust outlet, and ensure the generator is sitting on a level, stable surface.

Step 2: Check the Fuel Supply

For portable gas-powered generators, stale fuel is a common problem. Gasoline can begin to degrade in as little as 30 days, especially without a stabilizer. Drain old fuel and replace it with fresh, stabilized gasoline. For diesel generators, check the tank for signs of sludge or contamination and top off with clean fuel if needed.

Propane and natural gas systems should be inspected for leaks and secure connections. If you’re using propane, make sure your tank is filled and accessible in case deliveries are delayed during storms.

Step 3: Test the Battery and Electrical Components

Batteries are another common failure point, particularly for standby generators. If your generator has an electric starter, check the battery’s charge and clean the terminals. Make sure the battery is less than three years old or have it tested for reliability.

Also, check fuses, circuit breakers, and wiring to ensure all connections are tight and corrosion-free.

Step 4: Run a Test Cycle

The best way to know your generator works is to run it. Power it on and let it run under load for 15–30 minutes. Listen for odd noises, monitor for vibrations or error codes, and watch for leaks. Make sure the generator is able to transfer and carry the load it’s intended to support.

If you have a standby system, test the automatic transfer switch to ensure it properly moves the power source from the utility to the generator and back again.

Step 5: Change the Oil and Filters

If it’s been a year—or 100 hours of runtime—since your last oil change, it’s time to swap it out. Dirty oil can clog your engine and shorten its life. Replace the oil filter, air filter, and spark plugs according to the manufacturer’s schedule or at the start of storm season if you’re unsure of the last service date. Always use the oil grade recommended by your generator’s manufacturer.

Step 6: Stock Up on Supplies

Don’t wait until the forecast shows a Category 3 hurricane (or higher) to gather supplies. Keep extra oil, air filters, spark plugs, fuel stabilizer, and extension cords on hand. If you’re running a portable generator, make sure you have a safe, weather-protected location to use it and heavy-duty cords rated for outdoor use. Label which cords go to which appliances so there’s no confusion in an emergency.

Step 7: Review Safety Protocols

Generators can be life-saving tools, but they also carry risks. Carbon monoxide poisoning, fire hazards, and electrocution are all possible if a generator is used improperly. Always run portable generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from doors, windows, or vents.

Never plug your generator directly into a wall outlet—use a transfer switch or connect appliances directly. Check your carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries so they’re ready to alert you if something goes wrong.

Step 8: Know Your Generator’s Limits

Every generator has a rated capacity—don’t overload it by trying to run every appliance in your Southlake, home. Prioritize critical systems like the refrigerator, sump pump, lights, and medical equipment. Make a checklist of the essentials and practice running your generator with that setup before you need it in a crisis. Knowing what you can power will help you avoid damaging your generator or your appliances.

Step 9: Schedule Professional Service if Needed

If you’re not comfortable doing your own inspection or if your generator fails any of the checks above, it’s best to call a certified technician from Generator Authority. Professional servicing can identify issues that may not be obvious and ensure your unit is safe and storm-ready. Many service providers offer seasonal maintenance plans that include cleaning, testing, and routine part replacement.

Step 10: Create a Storm Plan

A generator is just one part of storm preparedness. Make sure your entire Southlake, TX, household knows what to do in the event of a power outage. Assign someone to operate the generator, identify safe fueling procedures, and determine which appliances will be powered. Keep all owner’s manuals, service records, and emergency contact numbers together in a waterproof folder.

Be Prepared, Stay Powered With Generator Authority

Storms in Texas are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. By preparing your generator now—before you need it—you give yourself peace of mind that your family and Southlake, home will stay safe, secure, and comfortable even when the lights go out. A little time spent now can prevent hours of frustration later.

Don’t wait for the clouds to roll in—make sure your generator is ready for whatever the season throws your way. Call Generator Authority at 817-984-3600 or request service online for more tips, maintenance service, and new equipment.