Why Your HVAC Plan Shouldn’t Ignore Your Generator

Is your HVAC system prepared for when the power goes out?

In September of 2024, thousands of homes lost power, comfort systems failed, and families were left without heating or cooling in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. While generators acted as literal lifelines for many during the storm, they’re only reliable if properly maintained.

---

Neglect Can Be Costly

Did you know?: Battery Failure Is the #1 Cause of Generator Malfunction.
Even if your generator is brand-new, it can fail when you need it if the battery isn’t regularly inspected and replaced every 2–3 years (Taylor, 2020, para. 4).

The common reasons for a generator to fail include:

• Dead batteries
• Clogged fuel lines
• Oil leaks
• Filter and sensor failures

By scheduling your generator maintenance with your HVAC maintenance, you can prevent many of these issues. Leaving things until the last minute can mean days with no heat during winter or no AC during a hurricane season heatwave.

---

Coordinated Maintenance = Smarter Service

Did you know?: The average emergency generator has about a 1.4% chance of failing to start under load (Billman, Florita, & Cutler, 2020, p. 22).

Combining HVAC and generator maintenance saves time, ensures compatibility, and helps your techs see the full picture.

With a coordinated plan, you get:

• Preventive care for both systems
  
• Early detection of cross-system issues
  
• Peace of mind during storm season

When your comfort and safety are tied to both systems working together, it just makes sense.

---

Protect Your Investment and Your Comfort

Did you know?: Generator Repairs Can Cost Hundreds (Sometimes Thousands) of Dollars And Are Often Avoidable.
Neglecting oil changes, fuel testing, or battery replacements can lead to engine failures or electrical faults, which aremuch more expensive to fix than prevent (Central Heating & Air Conditioning, n.d.).

Homeowners spend a lot of money on replacement and repairs for their HVAC and generator systems. Regular maintenance can increase their lifespan and keep warranties from becoming void by:

• Catching small issues before they become major problems
• Preserves energy efficiency
• Reduces risk of breakdowns at the worst times

If you’ve already invested in backup power and home comfort, keep those systems protected with a simple maintenance plan.

---

Peace of Mind, All Year Long

Our region sees a lot: storms, ice, heatwaves, etc… The last thing you want is to cross your fingers and hope your systems work when things go dark. When you add generator service to your HVAC plan, your family stays safe, your investment stays protected, and you avoid having to call for emergency repairs during high season.

Heating and Cooling Issues? Click Here!

---

Don’t wait until your HVAC system gives out in the heat of summer or the cold of winter.

Curious what working with us looks like?
Check out our case studies complete with photos and insights. See how real-life homeowners like you tackled HVAC challenges with help from Blue Ridge Heating & Air.

---

📞 Ready to Simplify Your Comfort Maintenance?

Let Blue Ridge Heating & Air make sure your generator and HVAC system are ready for anything—from summer heatwaves to the next hurricane.

✅ Get a quote
✅ Get it done right
✅ Sleep better

---

📚 References

• Billman, L., Florita, A., & Cutler, D. (2020). Characterizing emergency diesel generator performance and reliability (NREL/TP-5500-76553). National Renewable Energy Laboratory. https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy20osti/76553.pdf
• Central Heating & Air Conditioning. (n.d.). The costs involved in repairing a home generator: A comprehensive guide. https://www.centralhtg.com/blog/the-costs-involved-in-repairing-a-home-generator-a-comprehensive-guide
• Taylor, D. (2020, July 17). The #1 reason your generator will fail. Collicutt Energy. https://collicutt.com/blog/the-1-reason-your-generator-will-fail/