Storing your generator and chainsaw

A record number of generators were sold in our state, and people are still buying them. But what do you do with them when they're no longer needed.  If you just wheel them in the garage and let them sit, you might end up with some problems later.

Sean O'Connor, from O'Connors in Oklahoma City, says you need to add fuel stabilizer to your fuel. If you don't, the fuel will gum up or turn to a glue type liquid, then your engine won't start up.

Another thing to keep in mind is the oil. O'Connor says every generator is different, but on average you should change the oil 5-20 hours after your first use.

"If you run the generator too long and the oil is very dirty, you can prematurely wear the engine, so you're buying a new generator or engine," O'Connor said.

After that you only have to change it every 50 hours.

To keep your chainsaw in good working order, make sure you have bar and chain oil handy.

"A lot of people don't know, but bar and chain oil is different than standard oil," O'Connor said.

He recommends adding the bar and chain oil every time you fill up the chainsaw with gas.

You may also need to put a fuel stabilizer in the chainsaw before you store it; however, a lot of oils now contain the stabilizer, so you won't need to buy it separately.

If you have a problem Amanda and the Consumer Watch Team can help you with, call our Consumer Watch hot line at 841-9921.