More About Generator Parts & Accessories at Blain's Farm & Fleet
A generator is only useful when it's ready to perform when you need it most. Routine maintenance, proper storage, and the right accessories can help keep your equipment operating safely, reliably, and efficiently season after season.
It's easy to think about generator maintenance when a storm is approaching or the power goes out, but preparation often starts long before either of those things happen. Covers, cords, transfer switches, parallel kits, and other accessories can help protect your equipment, improve usability, and ensure you're ready when electricity isn't available.
Blain's Farm & Fleet carries generator parts and accessories designed to help you maintain, protect, connect, and get the most from your equipment.
FAQs About Generator Parts & Accessories
How should I store and maintain my generator when it's not being used?
Generators often spend long periods in storage between uses. Even when a unit isn't running, fuel can deteriorate, batteries can lose charge, and moisture, dirt, and debris can create problems over time.
Regular inspections, routine maintenance, and proper storage can help ensure your equipment is ready when you need it. Generator covers can help protect the unit from dust, dirt, and the elements, while following the manufacturer's recommendations for fuel management, battery care, and seasonal storage can help maintain reliability between uses.
A little preventive maintenance today can help reduce surprises during the next outage, storm, or project.
What generator accessories should I keep on hand?
The accessories you'll need depend on how you use your generator, but many owners agree it's better to prepare before they're needed rather than trying to find them during an outage or emergency.
Commonly used generator accessories include:
- Covers to help protect equipment from dust, dirt, moisture, and weather exposure during storage
- Power cords to safely deliver electricity from the generator to appliances, tools, and other equipment
- Transfer switches to simplify connecting backup power to selected household circuits during an outage
- Parallel kits to combine the power output of compatible generators when additional capacity is needed
- Maintenance and replacement items recommended by the manufacturer to help keep equipment operating reliably over time
Many generator owners keep these items on hand so they're ready when needed. During widespread outages and severe weather events, generator accessories and replacement components can be difficult to find as demand increases.
Having the right accessories available before an outage, project, or emergency can help you get the most from your equipment and avoid unnecessary delays when power is needed most.
How often should I inspect my generator and accessories?
Even if your generator spends most of its time in storage, it's a good idea to inspect it and its accessories periodically rather than waiting until an outage or emergency occurs.
Many owners make it a habit to check their equipment:
- Before storm season
- Before planned camping trips or outdoor events
- After extended periods of storage
- Anytime the generator has been used heavily
- At least once or twice a year, even if it hasn't been used
Some owners find it helpful to add a recurring reminder to their calendar at the start of severe weather season or when changing clocks in the spring and fall. Spending a few minutes inspecting your equipment ahead of time can help reduce surprises when you need power most.
What should I look for when inspecting my generator and accessories for wear?
Regular inspections can help identify small problems before they affect performance when power is needed most. As you inspect your generator and accessories, look for:
- Frayed, cracked, or damaged power cords
- Worn or damaged connectors and plugs
- Corrosion on electrical connections or terminals
- Cracks, tears, or excessive wear on generator covers
- Loose hardware or damaged handles and wheels
- Signs of moisture intrusion, rust, or physical damage
- Accessories that no longer fit correctly, connect securely, or function properly
Following the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations and periodically checking your equipment can help you identify worn or damaged components before they become a larger problem. Replacing parts and accessories as needed can help keep your generator operating safely and reliably when you need it.