Summer in Annapolis, Maryland brings a mix of beautiful waterfront weather and sudden, sometimes severe, thunderstorms. With rising temperatures and humidity levels, power outages become more common across Anne Arundel County. Whether you’re living in a historic row home in downtown Annapolis or a newer property in Edgewater or Parole, having a backup generator is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Your generator ensures your family stays comfortable during blackouts, protecting essential appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, medical equipment, and sump pumps. But like any piece of complex machinery, your generator needs regular maintenance and, at times, timely repairs to perform when it matters most. So how do you know when it’s time to schedule generator service? At JM Mullen Electric, we’ve helped countless Annapolis homeowners maintain their generators. Below are the key signs that your generator might need repairs—before it fails during a summer outage.
9 Signs You Need To Repair Your Generator This Summer In Annapolis
1. Difficulty Starting the Generator
One of the first and most obvious signs your generator may need attention is when it has trouble starting. If it hesitates, cranks for a long time, or fails to start altogether, don’t dismiss it as a one-time glitch.
Common causes include:
- Dead or weak battery
- Faulty starter motor
- Clogged fuel lines or dirty spark plugs
- Old fuel degrading in the tank
Even if your generator eventually starts, consistent difficulty can indicate deeper problems. With Annapolis’s storm-prone summer months, you don’t want to discover this issue during a blackout.
2. Visible Leaks or Strange Smells
Generators, especially older ones, can develop oil, fuel, or coolant leaks over time. If you notice any fluid pooling beneath the generator or smell gasoline near the unit, shut it down and call for professional help. Leaks are not only dangerous (fire hazard and environmental risk), but they can also reduce the efficiency and lifespan of your generator. Regularly inspecting your generator, particularly after it runs for extended periods, is essential—especially in hot, humid Annapolis summers where heat can exacerbate leaks.
3. Inconsistent Power Output
Your generator should provide a steady and reliable source of backup power. If you notice flickering lights, power surges, or certain appliances not functioning correctly while on generator power, it’s likely that the voltage regulator or alternator is malfunctioning. This inconsistency could damage sensitive electronics or cause your HVAC system to fail during a heatwave. If your home experiences unsteady performance during outages, it’s time for a professional inspection.
4. Excessive or Colored Exhaust Smoke
During startup, a brief puff of smoke can be normal. However, continuous or colored smoke (blue, white, or black) indicates something more serious:
- Blue smoke = burning oil
- White smoke = coolant or water in the engine
- Black smoke = too much fuel or poor combustion
Any of these conditions can point to mechanical damage or component failure. Excess exhaust smoke also indicates the generator is running inefficiently—burning more fuel, polluting the air, and potentially failing when you need it most.
5. Unusual Noises or Vibrations
Generators are designed to run with a consistent hum. If your unit begins rattling, grinding, knocking, or vibrating excessively, something is wrong internally. Loose components, worn bearings, or engine trouble can all cause abnormal sounds or movement. These issues often worsen over time, and ignoring them can lead to more expensive repairs—or even full system failure.
6. Warning Lights or Error Codes
Many modern generators feature built-in diagnostic systems that alert you when something’s wrong. If your generator’s panel displays blinking warning lights, fault codes, or low oil pressure alerts, don’t ignore them. Even if the unit is still running, these error codes are telling you that the generator is operating under stress or facing imminent failure. A certified electrician from JM Mullen Electric can diagnose the issue and ensure it’s fixed before an emergency hits.
7. Poor Fuel Efficiency or Overheating
If you find that your generator is consuming more fuel than usual or running hotter than normal, it may indicate clogged air filters, blocked fuel lines, or engine problems. Overheating can shorten your generator’s lifespan and lead to permanent internal damage. In Annapolis, where high summer temperatures are the norm, generators can quickly overheat—especially if they’ve been running for long durations during extended power outages. Regular maintenance and timely repairs ensure your generator operates efficiently without over-consuming fuel.
8. Lack of Regular Maintenance or Service
Generators require regular upkeep—typically after every 100–200 hours of use or once per year (whichever comes first). If your generator hasn’t been serviced in over a year or hasn’t been tested since the previous storm season, it’s time for an inspection. Deferred maintenance is the leading cause of unexpected generator failures. Many Annapolis homeowners rely on automatic standby generators that haven’t been manually tested in months. Just because it’s out of sight doesn’t mean it’s ready to go.
9. Age of the Generator
Generators have a service life of 10 to 30 years, depending on the model and how well they’re maintained. If your unit is over a decade old and beginning to show signs of wear—like slow starts, increased noise, or failing components—it may be time to evaluate whether repair or replacement is more cost-effective. JM Mullen Electric offers generator diagnostics and performance assessments to help you make the right decision for your home.
Why Summer is the Best Time for Generator Repairs in Annapolis
Summer isn’t just the season when generators are most likely to be needed—it’s also the best time to get repairs done. Scheduling service now ensures:
- Your generator is ready for hurricane season
- You avoid winter repair delays or emergency service calls
- Your home stays safe, cool, and connected during power outages
In coastal Annapolis, storms can brew quickly. Being prepared now can save you time, money, and stress later.
Contact JM Mullen Electric Today For Generator Repair Services In Annapolis, MD
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs—or simply want peace of mind before storm season—JM Mullen Electric is here to help. Our licensed electricians specialize in generator diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance for homeowners across Annapolis and the surrounding areas. Whether you own a portable unit or an automatic standby generator, we’ll ensure it’s running smoothly, safely, and ready to perform when your family needs it most. Don’t let an unexpected outage catch you off guard. Contact JM Mullen Electric today to schedule your generator inspection or repair service. We’ll help you stay prepared, comfortable, and powered through the hottest days of the year.
