Winters in Newfoundland are no joke. Between January and March, we expect heavy snow, freezing winds, and the kind of storms that knock out power with barely any warning. For local businesses, staying up and running is not just about convenience, it’s about getting through the season without disruption. That’s where commercial generators come in.
Used the right way, a generator can be a steady backup when outages drag on for hours or more. But even the best unit can run into problems if it hasn’t been checked in a while, or if winter conditions aren’t factored in. We’ve put together tips that help businesses keep commercial generators running safely, no matter how cold it gets.
Getting Your Generator Ready After the Holidays
The start of the year often brings a short lull after the holidays, and that’s the ideal time for checking systems that may not have seen much action in a few weeks. A generator that has been off since December needs more than just a flip of the switch. Give yourself a moment to look over everything and ensure your backup is ready to respond.
• Run a test cycle and check for error lights or signs the battery is low
• Inspect cords, fuel lines, and external connections for signs of wear
• Make sure snow or ice hasn’t blocked the vent areas or access panels
As February and March bring more unpredictable weather, a generator that’s up to date can mean fewer interruptions. It’s worth checking the startup schedule too. Even if your system is set for automatic starts, it helps to manually test it now and then, just to confirm everything’s working the way it should.
If you hear any strange noises or the generator is slow to start, that’s a sign it might need a closer look before the next storm rolls through. Maintaining a regular schedule for these checks can help spot small issues before they become big problems when you really need backup power.
Keeping Generators Running During Cold Spells
When temperatures really dip, even well-maintained systems can strain. Cold air thickens oil, slows fuel flow, and shortens battery life. For a generator to respond reliably when the building loses power in the middle of a storm, it needs a few helping hands.
• Keep the generator in a spot protected from hard wind and snow drifts
• Use battery warmers or enclosure heaters if available, especially for units outdoors
• Make sure the fuel type matches what’s rated for your unit and works at low temps
Fuel maintenance becomes more important in late winter. If your generator runs on diesel or another fuel that gels in the cold, you may need additives or temperature control to lower the risk of clogs or delayed starts.
It’s also helpful to start the generator more often during these colder weeks, just to keep everything circulating. Sitting idle for too long can allow parts to seize up or moisture to build where it shouldn’t.
In addition, regularly checking fluid levels helps ensure there’s enough coolant and oil to get things going, especially during those weeks when cold snaps are common. Look for any signs of frozen or thicked lines, since these can prevent fuel and oil from moving efficiently through the system. Clean away snow or slush that builds up near the unit, and double-check that exhaust vents are always open and clear.
Power Management Tips for Longer Outages
Generators are great for getting through unexpected power loss, but that doesn’t mean they can handle everything at once. Figuring out what truly needs power and what can wait goes a long way.
• Shut off non-critical equipment like decorative lights, space heaters, or unused office gear
• Avoid starting large appliances at the same time to reduce inrush loads
• Watch for built-in system warnings like overload lights or breaker trips
Keep a small checklist nearby that shows which zones or systems to cut first in an outage. Many commercial generators will warn you when they’re close to limits, but it’s better to stay ahead of the problem. Staggered starts help balance the load and can prevent shutdowns that come from sudden drops in voltage.
Power balancing becomes more important the longer an outage runs. If you expect to be without grid power for more than a few hours, plan out what gets turned off and when. This could mean cycling different departments, reducing lights in unused parts of the building, and being thoughtful about peak-use times. Spreading out electrical loads can make your generator last longer and provide more reliable power output.
Have staff review the order for equipment startup to prevent tripping breakers or causing power surges. Sometimes simply starting with the most important systems, then adding new ones gradually, helps avoid bumps in voltage and keeps everything running smoother. Remind everyone not to overload outlets or extension cords plugged into generator-supplied power, since this can become a fire risk, especially with portable equipment in storage rooms or unheated spaces.
Keeping the Area Safe and Clear
Even when the unit is running like it should, staying safe around it during winter takes a bit more effort. One of the most overlooked risks is letting snow pile up around vents or exhaust ports.
• Clear at least a few feet of space around the generator so exhaust flows properly
• Never lean snow shovels, salt bags, or tools against the housing
• Walk the site weekly and after big snowfalls to check for loose wires, small leaks, or frost on controls
If there’s a shelter around the generator, it needs to stay accessible and dry. Sometimes we’ve seen problems caused by ice building near the base, freezing drain holes, or casing cracks that open during deep freezes. Small stuff like that can turn into bigger repair needs if ignored.
Another good habit is to check that all warning signs and emergency instructions are easy to spot, not covered by snow or ice. If there are light fixtures aimed at the generator, keep them free of snow, since you may need to check it after hours. Make sure access paths are clear and not slippery, reducing the risk of falls when someone needs to work near the unit in poor conditions.
Safe access helps people respond quickly if there’s a fault or alarm. And if deliveries or snow clearing is needed, remind drivers and equipment operators where the generator sits so it doesn’t get hit or buried after a heavy blizzard.
When It’s Time for a Service Call
Not every generator hiccup needs a technician, but there are signs when it’s better to call instead of poking around yourself.
• Warning lights that stay on after a reset
• Oily spots or fuel smells that weren’t there last week
• Rattling or vibrating that wasn’t part of the usual hum
• The generator wakes up but doesn’t switch over to power the panel
Winter can add stress to things already close to wearing out. Cables stiffen, rubber seals shrink, and electronics become more sensitive in extreme temperatures. If you’re noticing repeated restarts, or if the unit seems to run differently once the weather changed, chances are something small is ready to become something bigger.
If your generator is shutting down more often, or if panels are showing errors you’re not familiar with, it’s always better to ask a professional. Document any changes in how the system sounds or smells so you can share those details with your technician during the next routine inspection or service call.
Consistent problems in winter may point to aging batteries, corroded connections, or even shifting parts in the cabinet due to expanding and contracting materials. A technician can run more advanced diagnostics and spot long-term issues you might miss.
Backup Power for Business Continuity
Most of winter’s damage happens quietly over time. That’s why steady checks, smart operating habits, and a bit of cold weather planning go a long way. Commercial generator service from ShockFree Electrical includes inspections, load testing, and scheduled maintenance to minimize downtime and protect your equipment investment. Reliable power in St. John’s, NL helps keep customers served, inventory protected, and staff comfortable all season long.
With January behind us and spring still weeks away, now is the right time to check in with your system, tweak a few routines, and make sure your building stays safe and steady through the last legs of winter.
Harsh winter conditions in St. John’s, NL can put extra strain on your generator, making regular maintenance even more important to avoid unexpected power interruptions. Timely service helps prevent shutdowns and protects your building’s electrical systems and ensures quick power restoration when it matters most. For expert assistance with inspecting or maintaining commercial generators, reach out to ShockFree Electrical today.
