A standby generator is only useful if it starts when the power goes out. The number one cause of generator failure during outages is skipped maintenance. Dead batteries, degraded oil, clogged filters, and untested transfer switches all contribute to generators that sit silently when they are needed most. Unity Power & Light provides professional generator maintenance throughout Aiken, SC that keeps your backup power system reliable year after year.

We service all major generator brands including Generac, Kohler, Briggs & Stratton, and Champion. Whether you need a one-time tune-up or want to set up an annual maintenance plan, our licensed technicians ensure your generator is ready for the next outage.

What's Included in Our Maintenance Service

Every generator maintenance visit includes a comprehensive inspection and service of all critical components. Here is what we do during a standard maintenance visit:

Oil & Filter Change

We drain the old engine oil, replace the oil filter, and refill with the manufacturer-specified oil type and quantity. Fresh oil protects internal engine components from wear and ensures proper lubrication during operation. We inspect the old oil for signs of contamination, metal particles, or coolant intrusion that could indicate deeper engine issues.

Air Filter Replacement

The air filter prevents dust, pollen, and debris from entering the engine. In the Aiken area, red clay dust and heavy pollen seasons clog filters faster than average. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reduces power output, increases fuel consumption, and can cause overheating under load. We replace the air filter at every maintenance visit.

Spark Plug Service

We remove and inspect spark plugs for carbon buildup, electrode erosion, and proper gap spacing. Worn or fouled spark plugs cause hard starting, rough running, and reduced power output. We replace spark plugs when they show signs of wear or at the manufacturer's recommended interval, typically every two years.

Battery Load Test

A dead battery is the single most common cause of generator start failure. We perform a full load test on the starting battery, not just a voltage check, to verify it can deliver adequate cranking amps. We clean battery terminals, check charging voltage, and recommend replacement when the battery shows signs of degradation.

Transfer Switch Test

We exercise the automatic transfer switch by simulating an outage and verifying that it correctly signals the generator to start, transfers load from utility to generator, and retransfers back to utility when the simulated outage ends. This end-to-end test confirms the entire system works as designed.

Load Bank Test

We run the generator under actual load to verify it can handle your home's electrical demand. This goes beyond the weekly no-load exercise cycle and confirms the generator performs under real-world conditions. We measure voltage, frequency, and current output to ensure they are within specification.

Additional Inspection Items

Beyond the core service items, our technicians inspect every aspect of your generator system:

Coolant system: Check coolant level, condition, and freeze protection on liquid-cooled generators. Inspect hoses for cracks and swelling
Fuel system: Inspect fuel lines, fittings, and the fuel solenoid valve. Check for leaks and verify fuel pressure
Exhaust system: Inspect for leaks, rust, and proper routing away from the structure
Enclosure: Check for rodent activity, insect nests, corrosion, and ventilation blockages
Control panel: Review fault history, clear resolved codes, verify remote monitoring connectivity
Belts and hardware: Check belt tension and condition, tighten mounting hardware, verify vibration isolators
Block heater: Verify operation for reliable cold weather starting
Exercise schedule: Confirm the weekly self-test cycle is programmed and running correctly

Annual & Bi-Annual Maintenance Plans

We offer scheduled maintenance plans that take the guesswork out of generator care. You do not need to remember when your last service was or when the next one is due. We contact you when it is time and schedule at your convenience.

Annual Plan: One comprehensive maintenance visit per year. Includes all items listed above. Best for generators with light usage in areas with infrequent outages. $200 - $350 per visit depending on generator size
Bi-Annual Plan: Two maintenance visits per year, typically in spring (before storm season) and fall (before winter). Includes full service at each visit. Best for generators that experience frequent outages or are critical for medical equipment or home businesses. $175 - $300 per visit
Priority scheduling: Maintenance plan customers receive priority scheduling for repairs and emergency service calls
Parts included: Oil, filters, and spark plugs are included in the maintenance visit price. Battery replacement, if needed, is additional

Maintenance plans can be started at any time. If your generator has not been serviced recently, we recommend an initial comprehensive service to bring it up to baseline condition before starting a maintenance plan.

When to Schedule Maintenance

The best times to schedule generator maintenance in the Aiken area are:

Spring (March-April): Before thunderstorm and hurricane season. This is the most important maintenance timing for generators in the Southeast
Fall (September-October): Before winter storm season. Particularly important for verifying battery condition and block heater operation before cold weather
After any extended run: If your generator ran for more than 24 hours during an outage, schedule maintenance within a few weeks to address accelerated oil degradation and component wear
After installation: New generators should receive their first maintenance at the interval specified by the manufacturer, typically after 25 to 50 hours of operation or one year, whichever comes first

Schedule Generator Maintenance Today

Serving Aiken, SC and surrounding communities including North Augusta, Graniteville, New Ellenton, Jackson, and Clearwater. Keep your generator ready for the next outage.

Google Business Profile