A homeowner took to Reddit to search for advice after hearing his long-reliable standby generator make a "gunshot"- like sound. While generators can provide reliable backup power during emergencies, cases like this show the potential dangers when equipment fails or wears out.
Here's what to know
According to the homeowner in a Reddit thread, the unit in question was a 2009 model that had required little over the years, aside from one oil leak repair and normal battery replacements.
However, during a recent test of the propane generator, the homeowner explained the unit made a loud popping noise.
"I mean it was like a gun shot," the homeowner wrote, adding their spouse could hear it from inside their home.
A later attempt sounded different. After waiting a few minutes and checking accessible items such as the fuses, the owner tried again and got no second bang, only "a low irregular buzzing sound" from the area beneath the panel by the circuit breaker.
Commenters suggested several possible explanations.
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The replies pointed in more than one direction, from engine adjustments to possible battery damage.
In an update, the original poster explained they solved the issue. They wrote that the battery side blew out.
A no-start event like this can leave a home unprotected during an outage and make it hard to tell whether the issue is a relatively simple battery problem or something more serious.
More background
Even a generator that has worked reliably for years can develop age-related problems, particularly with components such as the battery, ignition system, or fuel and air systems.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure every part is working properly, and following the manufacturer's operating instructions can help prevent dangerous — and potentially deadly — exhaust fumes from entering your home.
And if you are looking for a new home backup option, it may be worth considering battery storage and solar panels.
While generators can provide short-term power during emergencies, solar panels and batteries offer short- and long-term benefits, such as savings on energy bills and keeping your home's lights on during widespread outages.
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