Hurricane season officially runs June 1 through November 30 — but in Naples, the real window of concern stretches from late July through October. Whether you already have a Generac standby generator or you're thinking about getting one, this guide covers everything you need to do to be prepared before, during, and after a storm.

Naples Fact: After Hurricane Irma (2017) and Hurricane Ian (2022), many Naples homeowners waited 5–14 days for power to be restored. A properly maintained Generac standby generator runs indefinitely on natural gas or propane — no fuel runs required.

Pre-Season Checklist (March – May)

The best time to service your generator is before hurricane season, not when a storm is already in the forecast. Service slots fill up fast in April and May — don't wait.

Annual Generator Tune-Up — Schedule by May 1

Oil & filter changeEngine oil degrades over time even if the generator hasn't run heavily. Annual changes keep the engine clean.
Air filter inspection/replacementA clogged air filter causes hard starts and reduced output.
Spark plug inspectionWorn plugs cause misfires and reduced efficiency.
Battery test & replacement if neededThe #1 reason generators fail to start is a dead battery. Most last 2–3 years.
Transfer switch testVerify automatic transfer activates correctly.
Full load testRun the generator under load to confirm it can carry your home's circuits.
Mobile Link connectivity checkEnsure your remote monitoring app shows generator as "Ready."

What to Check Monthly

Generac standby generators perform automatic weekly self-tests (typically Tuesday mornings by default). In addition to that automatic test, here's what to check each month:

  • Check the generator's status panel — no fault lights or error codes
  • Check the Generac Mobile Link app — status should show "Ready"
  • Walk around the unit — look for debris, insect nests, or vegetation growth around the enclosure
  • Check oil level (dipstick) if accessible on your model
  • Confirm natural gas supply valve is open (if gas service)

When a Storm Is Approaching (48–72 Hours Out)

Storm Watch Checklist

Check Mobile Link appConfirm generator status shows "Ready" — not in standby or fault mode.
Confirm fuel supplyIf using propane, check tank level is at least 50%. Natural gas users — confirm service is active.
Clear the area around the generatorRemove any debris, lawn furniture, or items that could blow into the unit.
Run a manual testManually start the generator from the controller panel to confirm it's running cleanly before the storm hits.
Know your transfer switch locationFamiliarize yourself with the transfer switch breaker positions in case of an emergency manual override need.

During the Storm

Once your Generac generator is properly installed and serviced, your job during the storm is simple: nothing. The system is fully automatic. When utility power fails, the generator detects the outage and starts within 10 seconds. When power is restored, it automatically transfers back and shuts down.

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Never open the generator enclosure during a storm
  • Keep an eye on the Mobile Link app — if the generator shows a fault during the storm, call us on our 24/7 emergency line
  • If flooding approaches the generator, call us immediately — do not attempt to operate a flooded unit

Post-Storm Generator Inspection

Post-Storm Checklist

Visual exterior inspectionCheck for storm debris, branch damage, water intrusion, or displaced components.
Check oil levelRunning a generator for multiple days uses more oil. Check and top up if needed (or call us to do it).
Check run hoursNote the total hours the generator ran — this helps schedule your next service interval.
Professional service if run 48+ hoursExtended run times (2+ days) require an oil change within 100 hours. Schedule a post-storm service call.
Review Mobile Link historyCheck the app for any fault codes or interruptions during the outage period.

Don't Have a Generator Yet?

If you're reading this before you own a generator, the most important step is to not wait. Installation slots fill up every spring as homeowners rush to get protected before June 1. Permit approval in Collier County takes 2–4 weeks, and generator inventory gets tight before major storms.

Book Your Pre-Season Install Now

Don't wait until a storm is in the forecast. Free on-site assessment — we come to you and give you a written quote.

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