Are Generators Affected by Extreme Weather?
It’s bucketing rain, the lights go out, and your trusty generator saves the day. But here’s the question — how well does it handle wild weather? Short answer: generators can be affected by extreme conditions like heatwaves, downpours, and freezing nights. But don’t worry — with the right prep, your generator won’t skip a beat.
The Impact of Cold and Freezing Conditions
When winter hits hard, generators can struggle just like we do. Cold weather slows everything down — including your generator’s engine.
Common Issues: Oil, Batteries, and Fuel Gelling
Oil thickens up in the cold, making it harder for your generator to start. Batteries drain faster in chilly conditions, and diesel fuel can gel, clogging up your fuel lines.
If you’re using a generator in frosty areas like the Snowy Mountains or Tassie’s highlands, these issues are even more common. Many folks don’t realise their generator’s trouble until it refuses to start one freezing morning.
Preparing Your Generators for Winter
A good winter check-up is your best defence. Switch to winter-grade oil, keep your batteries fully charged, and consider anti-gel additives if you’re running on diesel.
If the generator’s outside, make sure it’s under a cover but still well-ventilated. It’s all about keeping the cold out and the power on.
The Dangers of Extreme Heat and Humidity
Sweltering summer days are brutal for more than just people. Generators suffer too.
How Overheating and Moisture Damage Generators
When the mercury climbs, your generator can overheat. The oil thins out, parts wear faster, and performance drops.
Humidity adds to the trouble — moisture sneaks into electrical components, causing rust and short circuits. In places like Darwin or North QLD, this combo is a real headache.
Best Practices for Hot Climates
If you live in a hot, sticky part of the country, go for a generator with temperature-resistant parts and automatic shutdown features. Shade it from the sun, clean it regularly, and make sure it’s got good airflow.
Invest in a model with a high IP rating and solid ventilation — your generator will thank you.
Storms: Protecting Generators from Wind, Rain, and Flooding
Storms are brutal. High winds, sheets of rain, and flash flooding can leave your generator in a bad way.
Securing Your Equipment Against High Winds
Strong winds can knock over or damage unanchored generators. In coastal areas or storm-prone zones, it’s important to bolt them down or use stabilising kits.
If debris starts flying, a well-secured unit is much less likely to get smashed or toppled.
The Risk of Water Ingress and Submersion
Water is a generator’s worst enemy. Once rain or floodwater gets into the engine or electricals, it’s game over.
Always raise your generator off the ground, especially in flood zones. Waterproof covers are great, but they need to be breathable so moisture doesn’t get trapped inside.
Protecting Generators with Proactive Measures
It’s not just about weatherproof gear — it’s also how you look after it. A bit of forward planning goes a long way.
Essential Preparation and Safe Operation
It doesn’t take a mechanic to keep your generator storm-ready. Just a bit of regular attention.
The Importance of a Pre-Season Check
Every season, give your generator a once-over. Check the oil, clean the filters, test the battery, and make sure it starts smoothly.
Don’t wait until you're in the middle of a blackout to realise there’s a problem. Prevention always beats a last-minute scramble.
Using Proper Fuel and Additives
Use the right fuel for your climate. In the wet season, fuel stabilisers can stop your petrol from going off.
If your generator uses diesel, consider anti-gel additives during winter months. Store fuel in approved containers away from heat and moisture.
The Critical 20-Foot Rule for Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is silent, odourless — and deadly. Always place your generator at least 6 metres (20 feet) from doors and windows.
Even with covers or awnings, make sure airflow isn’t blocked. Don’t risk it indoors — not even in a garage.
Selecting the Right Generator Covers and Enclosures
A good cover does more than stop rain. Look for ones designed for ventilation and heat resistance.
Steel or hard plastic enclosures offer serious protection, especially if you’re dealing with falling branches or debris in high-wind areas.
Choosing the Right Generator for Your Needs
Every household’s different. And the best generator for a dry inland shack won’t suit a humid coastal home.
Features and Factors to Consider
Look for weatherproofing, solid build quality, and safety features like overload protection or automatic shutdown.
Match the generator’s wattage to your real-world needs — not just the sales pitch.
Different Fuel Types: Which One is Best for Your Climate?
Petrol’s easy to find but spoils faster in heat and humidity. Diesel is better for long-term storage but can gel in the cold.
Propane and natural gas burn cleaner and are great in fixed setups. Think about what’s available in your area and the likely weather extremes.
How to Select the Correct Size
Too small and it’ll struggle — too big and you’ve wasted money.
Work out what you’ll actually need to power during an outage: fridge, lights, internet, maybe heating or cooling. Add up their wattage and pick a generator with a bit of headroom above that.
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