Portable Generator Maintenance Tips

Properly maintaining your portable generator is crucial if you want it to start every time you need it. Below are some tips to help you maintain your portable generator.

Change the Oil

The most important thing for you to do is change the oil on a frequent basis! Most new generators need their first oil change after just 20 hours of use. Beyond that, you'll have to change it every fifty to sixty hours depending on the generators maintenance schedule. Keep in mind that for extended run times (e.g. 36 hours) you will want to check (and possibly change) the oil when you top off the fuel.

Generators work extremely hard and it shows in the engine oil. That's why it's important to conduct more frequent oil changes than you do with a car. Keep some extra oil around so you’re not scrambling around during a storm trying to find some at a local auto parts store. If the generator you have has an oil filter make sure you replace it with a new one when changing the oil also.

Change the Spark Plug

Another thing to check and possibly change on a regular basis is the spark plug. If you notice the generator starting to take longer than usual to start, the spark plug could be the culprit. Over time, the spark plug will build up carbon around the electrode, affecting the “spark” which is needed to start and run the engine. This is a very inexpensive item, and it's good to have on hand.

Clean or Change the Air Filter

When the generator is running, it is sucking in air which goes through an air filter. When the filter gets clogged, the engine will be hard to start and will run very rough. Depending on the generator you have, you might be able to clean it. Not all filters can be cleaned though, so be sure to check your owner’s manual to see which kind of filter you have and keep it clean!

Use Fuel Stabilizer

Bad fuel is the #1 cause of generators not starting. Many manufacturers advise adding fuel stabilizer to the gas to help minimize fuel breakdown, varnish and gum buildup. But it's no guarantee against problems.

If you’re going to be storing your generator for a long period of time add some stabilizer and run the generator out of gas. If you decide to store the generator with fuel in the tank make sure the fuel tank is topped off so it does not have a chance to collect moisture inside and also add fuel stabilizer.

Give it a Workout!
Last but not least Exercise Your Generator. It is recommended you start your generator every 1-3 weeks according to most manufacturers and let it run for about 20 minutes with a load on it. If your generator has electric start this would be a good time to charge the battery also.

When in doubt, always check your owner’s manual, which is the bible of generator maintenance. Click here for manufacturers' phone numbers should you need to order a manual.