When Power Fails: What Emergency Generator Service Calls Teach Us About Preparedness 

By Aaron Hendricks, Field Service Manager – Colorado, Generator Source 

Why Emergency Calls Matter 

When the lights go out, the reality of backup power comes into sharp focus. In Colorado, I oversee emergency service calls for commercial and industrial generators, and I see firsthand how unplanned outages disrupt businesses. These calls are not just about fixing problems in the moment, they highlight where preparation fell short. By looking at common emergencies, we can understand what businesses should prioritize to prevent costly downtime. 

1. The Cost of Waiting Until It Breaks 

One recent service request came from a facility that had been running its generator all day during a power outage. By the time they reached out, they needed immediate service after hours. While emergency response is always available, it comes at a higher cost and often with more stress. 

This situation reinforces an important point: waiting until equipment fails is far more expensive than maintaining it ahead of time. Preventative service ensures generators are ready to handle extended outages without pushing them to the breaking point. Businesses that plan regular inspections and testing reduce the likelihood of needing costly after-hours interventions. 

2. Fuel Planning Is Power Planning 

Another call involved a property manager in Denver who noticed their generator’s fuel was critically low after extended runtime. They were unsure whether a refueling plan had been put in place. This is a common gap we see, the generator itself may be functioning, but without fuel management, it cannot provide protection when needed most. 

Fuel supply is just as critical as the generator itself. Monitoring levels, planning refueling schedules, and coordinating with trusted service providers ensures the system can perform during long outages. Businesses should treat fuel planning as part of their overall power strategy, not an afterthought. 

3. Mechanical Failures Require Fast Diagnosis 

In another case, a facility’s generator failed to start. The customer described how the starter engaged but the flywheel would not turn over. Without knowing the model and service history, troubleshooting takes longer and downtime stretches on. 

These situations emphasize why familiarity with your equipment and regular inspections matter. By keeping units properly maintained and documenting service history, technicians can diagnose issues faster and get power restored quickly. Preparedness here means not only having the right generator, but also making sure it is understood, tracked, and supported. 

Preparation Prevents Emergencies 

Every emergency call reminds us of the same truth: backup power is only reliable if it is maintained, fueled, and tested regularly. Preventative maintenance avoids costly breakdowns, fuel planning keeps generators running when the grid fails, and inspections reduce the time it takes to resolve mechanical issues. 

At Generator Source, our goal is not just to answer the phone when something goes wrong, it is to ensure our customers never have to make that call in the first place. With over 50 years of experience serving businesses across Colorado, Florida, and Texas, our field service teams are ready to keep power systems reliable, resilient, and prepared for the unexpected. 

For generator service or emergency response in Colorado, call us at 720-990-5106 or visit Emeregency Generator Service.