HOUSTON – Houston homeowners rely on standby generators more than ever — especially after repeated storms, extreme heat, and unexpected power outages. But many people don’t realize their generator may be what experts call an “orphan generator.”
On a recent episode of Houston Life, we visited with Andrew Spitzmueller, founder of GenPro, to explain what orphan generators are, why they’re common in Houston, and how they can fail at the worst possible moment.
What exactly is an orphan generator?
An orphan generator is a home standby generator that no longer has an active service provider. This can happen for a number of reasons:
- The original installer is no longer in business
- The homeowner moved in after installation and never set up maintenance
- Service agreements expired and were never renewed
Without routine inspections and upkeep, these generators may appear fine — until a real outage hits.
Why maintenance matters — especially in Houston
Houston’s heat, humidity, and frequent storms are tough on generator systems. According to Spitzmueller, lack of maintenance can lead to:
- Battery failure
- Corroded connections
- Fuel delivery issues
- Software or control board errors
“All of those things can cause a generator to fail right when you need it most,” he explained during the segment.
Common issues homeowners don’t realize need checking
During the Houston Life maintenance demonstration, Spitzmueller highlighted several components homeowners often overlook:
- Batteries that haven’t been replaced on schedule
- Oil levels and filters
- Transfer switch operation
- Error codes that don’t trigger alarms
A generator may still perform weekly self-tests and look operational — but that doesn’t mean it’s ready for a prolonged outage.
Can a generator look fine but still fail?
Yes — and that’s one of the biggest risks with orphan generators.
Self-tests don’t simulate real-world conditions like extended runtime, full electrical load, or extreme weather. Without professional inspections, hidden problems often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
What should homeowners do if they’re not sure who maintains their generator?
If you’re unsure who’s responsible for servicing your generator — or if it’s been years since it was inspected — experts recommend scheduling a professional evaluation as soon as possible.
GenPro specializes in identifying orphan generators and bringing them back into reliable service, whether that means repairs, maintenance plans, or helping homeowners understand their options.
Thinking about a generator — or worried yours isn’t working?
If you don’t have a generator, or if you’re concerned your current system may not be properly maintained, you can learn more at GenPro.com.
As Houston continues to face unpredictable weather and power disruptions, making sure your generator is ready before the next outage can make all the difference.
For more information about generator maintenance or installing a new standby generator, visit GenPro.com or call 713-987-7542.