Generac Generator Won’t Start. How to Fix Fast? (Expert Tips)

Mar. 07, 2024

Energy

Generac Power generators can be the lifeline for you in case of power outages, which is a common phenomenon during harsh winters. It is at this time that we realize just how important this power backup equipment is.

While there are several options available in the market, the one brand that has stood the test of time and has continued to be a leader in providing the best-quality power generators is Generac. Its alternate power sources are manufactured to last with the best-in-class performance, durability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. No wonder Generac generators have made a name for themselves as one of the most trusted generator brands.

“As per the latest report, Generac commercial generators have a market share of 70%.” ??

However, despite their durable nature and the ability to perform in the most challenging weather conditions, these are machines that are bound to be dysfunctional at some point in their life cycle.

Even though machines are built to perform, there could be several reasons that might amount to them conking off and you must ensure that you the right preventive measures so that they continue performing to the best of their ability.

The best to avoid a situation where a generator doesn’t start easily is to keep using it often. This allows its machine parts to continue functioning without any hassle.

Any machine, when left without being used is bound to wear and tear, and Generac generators are no exception. In case, your Generac generator doesn’t start, here are a few things you can do to make sure it is back and running in its best condition.

?️ The oil level has gone low

Oil is one of the most essential components of maintaining the health of any engine, and generator engines are no exception. If the oil level in your generator goes below the recommended level, the generator will face difficulty starting. You must refill the oil to keep the generator running.

You can also check if the oil needs to be changed. Changing the oil periodically will ensure that there are no snags in the future. You must also check how your generator is placed. If positioned on an uneven surface, the low oil sensor might not provide the correct reading. Ensure that it is mounted on an even surface.

⛽ The fuel tank is empty

This is a common possibility, especially when it comes to power generators. Alternate power sources like generators are used daily only at select places.

In most cases, generators are used only when there is a power outage, which happens once in a while. So, the chances of a generator running out of fuel are quite high. Check the fuel level and refill the fuel tank as required.

? The choke is not working properly

The Choke is yet again an important component in the starting function of an engine. It should be in the closed position when the engine is being started and should be turned on only once the engine warms up. These choke levers are positioned differently in different generators depending on their make and model.

Usually, the choke lever is placed right above the air filter on the side of the generator. In some other generators, it is built in right into the power control knob. Irrespective of where it is placed, it should be off when you start the generator.

? The fuel valve is closed or clogged

Even when the fuel tank is full and still the generator doesn’t start, there could be an issue with the fuel valve. If the valve is closed or clogged, the fuel will not reach the carburetor and the engine will not start.

Ensure that the fuel valve is open when you start the generator. If in case the fuel valve is clogged, there are two things you can do. If there is a vacuum relief valve in your generator, ensure it has been opened.

Secondly, unplug the outlet hose from the intake side. Check if any of these lines are clogged, and clean them up so that the fuel can reach the carburetor.

? The carburetor is clogged

Fixing a machine is almost like a cyclic process. You address one issue at a time till you reach the root of the issue. Once you have ensured that the fuel tank is not clogged, and still your generator won’t start, check the carburetor. If you have not used your generator for a long time without draining the carburetor, the chances are that it will get clogged.

To fix it, you must first shut off the fuel valve and then clean the carburetor and the carburetor drain. To avoid clogging the carburetor, you must run your generator at least once every month, and use a carburetor cleaner regularly. This will ensure the better health of your machine.

⚡The spark plug needs repair/replacement

Over time, a lot of carbon deposits occur on the spark plug that might result in it not performing well. Any issue in the spark plug means the engine will not start. Clean it using a small knife to scrape off the deposits. Once the cleaning is done, you can check the spark plug by removing the recoil starter and holding the spark plug close to the crankcase of the engine. You can also do so using a spark plug tester If the sparks look strong and blue in color, you are good to go.

You must also have a quick look at the spark plug wire and ensure that it is in good position.

If the sparks are not strong enough, you must check the ignition coil. This can be done using a ignition coil tester. Sometimes, the problem could be with the ignition coil which might require replacement.

?You have a dead battery

The battery is notorious to drain over a period of time if the machine is not used. So, you must check the status of the battery if your generator doesn’t start. If the battery is old, you might need to replace it. Sometimes jump-starting the battery can solve the issue. In this case, you must ensure that you use your generator periodically, or else the battery will drain again.

?Empty fuel tank

This is one of the most obvious things to happen, especially in generators that haven’t been used for a long time. It is best to periodically keep checking if the tank has enough fuel at all times. If possible, avoid emptying your fuel tank as it can damage your engine. Then again, you must ensure that the fuel line is clean at all times and that the oil level is optimal.

Yet another aspect that you must take care of is to avoid storing the generator with stale gasoline. Always making use of fresh gasoline is a sure shot way of enjoying a seamlessly working generator.

? The generator is plugged in

Your generator should always be disconnected with cords and wires when you are trying to start it. If it is plugged into an electronic item, the generator might not start even if the electronic device is not switched on. Unplug all the cords and try to start it.

? Clean the air filter

The air filter provides the right amount of air to the carburetor during the ignition process. If the air filter is choked, it will not let the air pass through, disturbing the ignition process. Clean the air filters, and if required, replace them.

Our Take

Every machine needs periodic functioning to run in a good condition. Any machine that is not used for a prolonged period of time will start to wear and tear and not perform to the best of its capability.

Generators are mostly used sporadically and thus they are more prone to such wear and tear. It is a good practice to turn it on once every month so that you don’t face any issues during an emergency situation. It will not only prolong the generator’s life but will also save you spending on costly repairs and replacements.

But, if your Generac Generator does give you trouble in starting, try the above-mentioned methods to ensure it is up and running.

If it still doesn’t, of course, you have the CS Diesel team to help you out with the maintenance of your equipment. Regardless of when you bought the generator, our team of trained technicians is always up and ready to help you out.

Frequently Asked Questions about Generac Generator

Why would a Generac generator conk off?

Although Generac generators are known for their superior quality, they are still machines and wear and tear happens, which could be the reason for their malfunctioning. If you want to keep your Generac generator running at all times, keep them well-maintained. You must use them regularly so for longer-lasting performance as any machine when left idle, malfunctions more often.

What are the main reasons for a Generac generator not starting?

There could be multiple reasons for a Generac generator not starting. These reasons range from a decrease in the oil level, an empty fuel tank, choke malfunctioning, a closed or clogged fuel valve, a clogged carburettor, a spark plug not working properly, a dead battery, and unclean air filters. If the generator is not maintained properly, then it is bound to not start when required.

What should I do if the Generac generator doesn’t start?

If your Generac generator doesn’t start, then you can start with the following steps. Check the oil level, check if there is enough fuel in the tank, see if the air filters are clean enough, check the spark plug and choke, unclog the fuel valves, recharge the battery and unclog the carburettor. Even if the generator doesn’t start after following these steps, you must ask for professional help.

There are three basic types of generators: whole house generators, portable generators and inverter generators.

Inverter generators are ideal for camping, boating and other recreational activities. They operate quieter than other generators and provide power for lights, heaters, fans, radios, smart phones and more.
Whole house generators (standby generators) are the best generators for home use. They are designed to provide ample power for your appliances and HVAC systems.
Portable generators are often used on job sites to power air compressors, nail guns, saws, hammer drills and other equipment. Most are loud, but there are quiet portable generators too.

Home Standby Generator

Standby generators are always installed permanently outside your home. They usually start automatically when the power to your home goes out. They have devices that monitor the electricity provided by a utility and can actually power up all the equipment in a home within seconds of a power failure.

Some of the features of a standby generator:

Provides automatic emergency backup power within seconds of an outage.
Whole house generators provide blackout protection seven days a week, 24-hours a day and are permanently installed.
An existing fuel source, like liquid propane or natural gas, can be used to power the machine.
Depending on your needs, whole house generators can either power the entire house or only a few selected circuits that you have connected.
When choosing the best generator for home backup, consider models with special features that run the unit more quietly or conduct weekly, self-diagnostic tests.

Portable Generator

When a blackout begins, portable power generators, which are typically mounted on wheels, must be pushed outdoors and connected to your home’s electrical system. Sometimes portable generator are also called backup generators, and are used to provide temporary power when and where it is needed. The word “Portable” is a relative term; as some are more portable than others. While the smallest models can be picked up and carried, most have wheels and a handle to make transport easier. To load or transfer them, however, may require two individuals due to their weight of over 100 pounds. Direct plug-ins into regular outlets are available on the generator’s front panel for equipment like appliances and power tools. A twist-lock connector that can deliver up to 240 volts is also included in many models and can be used with a manual transfer switch to power circuits in a home.

Here are the approximate wattages of some common tools that can be powered by a portable generator:

Chain Saw: 1000-1800
Circular Saw: 1200-1600
Drill (depends on size): 250-1200
String Trimmer: 600-1100
Hedge Clippers: 300-1000
Leaf Blower: 1000-1400
Planer: 300-900
Sanders: 250-1500
Router: 100-1500
Shop Vacuum: 700-1400
Paint Sprayer: 500-1000
Miter Saw: 500-1000

Inverter Generator

Although inverter-type generators are frequently portable, we categorize them separately since their operation differs greatly and technically from that of the other two. They are known for their lower noise levels, they are also lightweight and easy to transport. Inverter generators deliver 120/240 volts of AC electricity, like the majority of generators do. They use an engine connected to an alternator to produce AC power and convert it to DC power. DC power can be stored, which makes an inverter one of the best types of generators for traveling in an RV, tailgating, camping or boating.

Circuitry that functions as a filter, smooths out surges, and cleans up the sine wave (or oscillating wave) of the electrical current controls the conversion and inversion. The alternating current sine wave in most generators is distorted to variable degrees. The majority of electrical equipment don’t typically have this problem; the exceptions include delicate electronics like tablets, laptops, televisions, and other smart devices, which can be harmed by current distortion or surges. With “clean” power and constant voltage, these devices will survive longer. Inverter generators can be much more expensive as a result of the additional complexity.

Here are the approximate wattages for items commonly powered by an inverter generator:

Lights: 250
Fan: 100
Space Heater: 1500
Hot Plate: 1200
Crock Pot: 1200
Television: 250

PORTABLE GENERATORS VS STANDBY GENERATORS

The first choice to make is whether you need a smaller home standby generator or a portable generator. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. Portable generators are more compact, less expensive, and don’t need professional installation. However, because standby generators are more simpler to operate, they are preferable for handling frequent power outages.

Asking yourself these questions can help you choose the right type for you.

How Do You Want to Use It? A portable generator is exactly what it says it is. You may bring it along for camping trips or tailgate parties, or you can use it to power your house in an emergency. Compared to a stationary generator, which is permanently fixed to your home, this gives it more flexibility.
How Much Power Do You Need? Portable generators don’t produce nearly as much electricity as standby ones do. The power output of a standby generator ranges from 5,000 to 20,000 watts, which is sufficient to run every equipment in your house. Comparatively, portable generators typically only produce between 3,000 and 8,000 watts. That will power a few essential appliances, like a refrigerator, several lights, a window air conditioner, and a gas furnace fan. However, they can’t keep your whole house running along as usual.
What’s Your Budget? The less expensive choice is a portable generator. Consumer Reports’ generator buying guide states that the majority of models range in price from $400 to $1,000. You can put up this kind of generator yourself, or you can pay an electrician a few hundred dollars to install a transfer switch, which makes it safer and simpler to use. A standby generator costs between $3,000 and $6,000, plus the expense of expert installation, according to Consumer Reports. In total, your costs could range from a few thousand to over ten thousand dollars.
How Much Do You Value Convenience? A standby generator doesn’t need any reconfiguration or adjustment. Once connected, it automatically turns on whenever the power goes out. Much more effort is required for portable generators. In order to make sure they are functioning properly, you must purchase and save fuel for them in advance and run them frequently once a month. Then, when a power outage occurs, you have to get the generator out, take it outside, connect it, and start it. You may need to dash back outside in the middle of a storm if the power loss lasts long enough. And finally, using a portable generator requires greater safety measures. It could cause a fire or bring dangerous fumes into your home if handled improperly.
Where Will You Store It? Finding a good location to keep a portable generator is key. It must be kept within to guard against theft and damage, but it must also be portable so that you may take it outside when you need it. Moreover, you need a good location to set it up when using it, preferably outside on flat ground that is shielded from the elements but is not too close to the home. A standby generator can remain operational year-round wherever it is installed. That saves you time, but it also consumes a significant amount of space throughout the year, not just during storms.
Do You Need Power While You’re Away? A standby generator has the benefit of turning on automatically when the power goes off, even if you are not home. That means you won’t have to worry about returning home to a flooded basement if a storm hits your house while you’re away on vacation because the pipes burst or the sump pump malfunctioned.

FUEL OPTIONS

Once you have chosen the type of emergency generator that you need, you must choose the fuel type it will run on. There are three types of fuel options:

Gasoline:

Gasoline is the most widely used fuel for a portable generator. The fuel’s ease of purchase at any gas station is by far its greatest benefit. However, it isn’t always accessible in times of need. If a power outage strikes your whole area, not just your house, gas stations won’t be able to use electricity to pump their gas.

This means that if you have a generator that runs on gasoline, you must always have a sufficient quantity of fuel on hand. But it’s not always simple to do that. Large quantities of gasoline stored on your property are prohibited by many local fire departments because they pose a fire risk. Family Handyman claims that the maximum is typically 25 gallons.

The Chainsaw Journal also claims that gasoline degrades with time. Gas with ethanol, which makes up the majority of today’s gas sold, often only lasts one month. Its lifespan can be extended to a year by adding a fuel stabiliser, but you’ll still need to replace your full supply every year.

Additionally, using gasoline can be inconvenient because you need to use a funnel to fill the generator from a can, and it emits unpleasant smells. The cost of running a gas generator is determined by the cost of gasoline in your location because gasoline prices vary greatly from place to place.

Propane

Propane is a fuel that is sold in tanks at big-box retailers like Home Depot and Walmart, and sometimes in supermarket and convenience stores. These fuels can be used to power both portable and standby generators. Propane isn’t always as simple to purchase as gasoline because, in many locations, you can’t just head to the closest gas station for it. It lasts practically forever, which is a bonus, and is safer to keep.

Compared to gasoline, propane burns cleaner. According to research from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, not only is there no offensive odor, but it also emits less CO2 for the same amount of heat.

Propane presently costs around $2 per gallon, which is less than the average gallon price for gasoline, according to the EIA. However, as this graph from the Alternative Fuels Data Center demonstrates, propane only generates around 73% as much energy as gas, making it more expensive to use. Portable generators that run on propane last longer and are less expensive to maintain than those that run on gasoline.

The fact that the tank can’t always maintain adequate pressure to keep the fuel flowing in extremely cold temperatures is a significant drawback of propane. According to Ehrhart Energy, residents in cold climates need to make sure to fill their propane tanks at least one-quarter full in order to avoid this issue.

Natural Gas

If you decide on a standby generator and your house is already heated with natural gas, you may connect the generator to your gas lines with ease. Although natural gas is typically less expensive than propane, its biggest benefit is ease. There is no requirement to purchase and store gasoline or to replenish the generator whenever it needs it. You always have a supply coming via the pipes.

However, using natural gas with portable generators is not an option and is not feasible if you don’t have access to it at home.

USEFUL FEATURES TO CONSIDER IN A GENERATOR

Depending on whether you want a residential generator only for intermittent emergency backup or one that can handle some or all of your power needs on a regular basis, you’ll definitely want to consider some good features and a particular type of home generator before writing that check. The features listed here are the most important to consider before pulling the trigger on a purchase.

Electric Start: Pull cords are typically used to start portable generators. However, some have a push-button battery starter that makes starting the vehicle easier. The battery can cost an additional $50 or more because it isn’t always included with the generator.
Gauges: You can quickly see how much fuel is remaining in a portable generator’s tank thanks to a fuel gauge. It comes in handy when there are protracted power outages because you’ll probably need to recharge it multiple times. An hour meter, which records how many hours the device has ran, is another helpful metric. That lets you know when to change the oil or do other regular maintenance.
Low Oil Shutoff: By turning off the generator if the oil level falls too low, this feature guards against harm to the generator. Most stationary generators come with it as standard equipment, although many portable units also have it.
Automatic CO Shutoff: Carbon monoxide (CO) sensors are frequently included into more recent generators. If the CO concentration rises to a hazardous level, a switch is tripped, and the generator is turned off. Consumer Reports claims that Generac, Cat, and DeWalt generators all have this feature. Low-CO engines are available from several generator manufacturers, including Ryobi and Echo, to lower the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Multiple Outlets: If your generator isn’t hooked up to your household electrical panel with a transfer switch, you need one with multiple outlets so you can plug in several devices at once. Most portable generators have at least two electrical outlets, and some have four or more.
Dual-Fuel Use: Most portable generators only use gasoline or propane as fuel. The most adaptable types, referred to as dual-fuel generators, can use either fuel source. According to Portable Generator Grader, this feature raises the price of a generator by roughly $100. Tri-fuel generators are even available, but they are quite uncommon and may run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas.
Inverter Technology: Power surges can occur occasionally with most portable generators. Most appliances are unaffected by these, but delicate electrical devices may be harmed. By converting the generator’s alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), smoothing out any surges, and then back to AC, generators with built-in inverters get around this issue. Inverter generators are often more compact, lighter, fuel-efficient, and quieter than other portable generators, according to Honda. They do have a high price tag and a low production, though. Only 2,000 watts of power are generated by a standard $1,000 inverter generator.

DOES YOUR GENERATOR NEED TO BE GROUNDED?

To begin with, if you choose to have a standby generator permanently installed, you’ll need a professional to obtain the necessary permits and carry out the installation. And since all standby generators must adhere to local laws and/or the National Electric Code, they will be the ones to ground it.

In general, portable generators don’t need to be grounded if you’re using them to power appliances, tools, or other items by plugging them straight into the conventional ports on the front of the generator. Maybe, if the generator is used to supply electricity to certain residential circuits. Your local building authority should always be consulted regarding the operator’s manual, a licensed electrician, and/or township ordinances as some localities may have standards that are different from those set forth in the NEC (National Electric Code).

To operate electrical equipment safely, electrical circuits must be grounded. This ensures that any faulted or shorted current is directed to the ground, which is the actual, literal earth, rather than the user, who would then act as the conduit to “ground.” Generators can be grounded in one of two ways: neutrally bonded or neutrally floating. The term “neutral bonded” refers to the connection between the generator frame and the neutral wire. The neutral is not attached to the frame when there is a floating neutral. In the latter scenario, a grounding rod that has been driven into the ground should be connected to the ground terminal of the generator.

When used to power circuits in your home, generators with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets need to be grounded by attaching the ground terminal to a ground rod that has been pushed into the ground. Three pole transfer switches are another name for neutral switching transfer switches.

HOW TO USE A GENERATOR

Owning a generator doesn’t simply guarantee you will be safe in a time of emergency. You must also understand how to use it. When a storm comes, you don’t want to be outside in the rain fumbling in the dark with gas cans and electricity cords to get the thing going.

To avoid this problem, you have to take the time, before a storm hits, to learn all about your generator – how to set it up, run it safely, and maintain it.

How to Start Your Generator

When the electricity goes off, a standby generator will automatically turn on if you have one.

On the other hand, starting a portable generator is much tougher. Electric Generators Direct provides a brief overview of the procedure, but your generator’s handbook should provide detailed instructions. Basically, you just need to

Wheel the generator into its outdoor position.
Check the oil and fuel levels. If it’s a gas-powered generator, fill up the fuel tank with fresh gasoline. Also, top off the oil if the level is low.
Make sure there are no cords connected to the generator.
Turn on the fuel valve, then the choke, then the ignition switch – in that order.
Start the generator. If it has an electric start, simply push the button. Otherwise, pull the cord until you feel resistance, then let it go. It may take more than one pull to get it started.
Let it run for a few minutes, then set the choke back to the open (or “run”) position.
Connect the generator. If you’re using individual extension cords, simply plug them into the outlets on the generator. If you have a transfer switch, connect the generator power cord to the power inlet box in your house.

GENERATOR SAFETY

There is no need for additional safety measures when a standby generator is installed correctly.

In contrast, the three primary safety risks associated with portable generators are fire, electric shock, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Always adhere to the directions in the manual to the letter to avoid these risks. Here are some general safety recommendations to bear in mind:

Never Run the Generator Indoors: Always use the generator outside, in a well-ventilated area, to avoid CO poisoning. The amount of carbon monoxide that can build up in even a partially enclosed room, like an open garage door, is enough to be fatal. Keep the generator well away from any doors, windows, or vents that could let in fumes, and at least 20 feet away from the house.
Use a CO Detector: Install battery-operated CO detectors on every floor of your home if your generator doesn’t include an automatic CO detector to further lower the risk of CO poisoning. To ensure sure the batteries are functional, test them frequently. Get outside or close to an open door or window as soon as the CO alarm sounds.
Keep the Generator Dry: You risk electrocution if you use a generator in damp weather. Use an open, canopy-like structure to cover it if you must use it in the rain, such as a tarp raised on poles. A home center may also sell a ventilated generator tent that has been carefully made.
Use the Proper Power Cords: Ensure that you are properly connecting your appliances to the generator if you don’t have a transfer switch. Use heavy-duty extension cords made for outdoor use or plug them in directly. Make that the cord has a three-prong plug, is in good condition, and has no rips or tears. Additionally, be sure the extension cord’s amp or watt rating is at least equal to the combined wattage of all the appliances you are connecting to it.
Never Back-Feed: Back-feeding is the risky practice of plugging a generator straight into a power outlet in your house. You run the risk of damaging your electronic equipment or, worse, igniting an electrical fire because it bypasses the circuit board in your home. Back-feeding increases the risk of electrocution for both utility workers and nearby residents who utilize the same power transformer.
Avoid Overloading the Generator: Even if your generator is correctly connected, overloading it might still lead to overheating or generator failure. Keep an eye on how many appliances you’re operating at once to prevent this issue, and don’t use more electricity than the generator is capable of producing. According to Consumer Reports, the majority of transfer switches assist with this by showing the current consumption.
Cool It Down Before Refueling: Never attempt to refuel a generator while it’s running. If you spill gasoline on a hot engine, it could start a fire. Turn the generator off and give it time to cool down before adding gas. That also reduces your risk of burning yourself on the hot engine.
Store Fuel Safely: Use only the fuel that your generator specifies. In a cool, well-ventilated room, keep additional fuel in a safety can that has been authorized. Do not store extra fuel in or next to a fuel-burning appliance, such as a natural gas water heater in the garage, or in the living areas of your home. Instead, put it in a lockable storage space. To learn how much gasoline you can keep on your property and where it can go, speak with your neighborhood fire department.

HOW MUCH DOES A HOME GENERATOR COST?

Protector QS Standby Generator

CHAMPION

$1,049.00 BUY NOW

PROS

Uses gas or propane

CONS

Needs adapter to use with a transfer switch

Starting with the option to run on either gas or propane, Champion crammed a lot of value into one product. When we turned on the saw or planer while watching the current, we noticed a symmetrical sine wave. THD remained at 0% even though it briefly spiked to 3.7 when we turned on the saw. This generator has a 30-amp RV-style plug that can power a midsize camper, and although though it lacks a 240-volt outlet, it can be useful in case of a home emergency.

HOW WE TESTED AND SELECTED THESE GENERATORS

Performance

Our skilled experts load up each model of generator with a range of necessities such as a space heater, refrigerator, or window air conditioner in order to test each one for performance. We test the generator to make sure it can support the load it claims to be able to manage. We also evaluate what will happen in the event of a rapid spike in voltage, such as what would occur if the compressor in your refrigerator turned on while the generator was already nearly at capacity. The greatest models deal with that without complaining, but others struggle or even stop. We also consider a generator’s portability, ease of operation, fuel efficiency, and the amount of time it can operate on a single tank.

Safety

We put each generator through a series of tests meant to simulate the various ways a user may unintentionally abuse a generator. When a generator is running, we measure the levels of carbon monoxide (CO) throughout the vessel using calibrated CO sensors. We also note how soon each generator shuts down when the levels reach potentially hazardous levels.

MAINTENANCE OF A GENERATOR

You must properly maintain your generator if you want it to be ready to use when the power grid fails. Taking care of your generator should be covered in depth in the manual, however there are several fundamental precautions that everyone should do.

Have Enough Fuel: For a generator to run continuously for 24 hours, 12 to 20 gallons of gasoline are required. That equates to roughly 16 to 28 gallons of propane because propane has a gallon energy content that is 0.73 times greater than that of gasoline. You probably don’t need to operate your generator constantly, though. It might just need to be turned on once every few hours to keep your freezer and fridge running. Food will normally stay cold in an unopened refrigerator for about four hours and in an unopened, fully-stocked freezer for about two days, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Propane can be kept for an endless period of time, but gasoline must be brand-new for the generator to function properly. Experts advise adding a fuel stabiliser, which extends the shelf life of gasoline in cans by up to a year. Additionally, by doing this, you can avoid draining the generator’s fuel tank after use.
Check the Oil: Before you turn on your generator, ensure sure it has enough oil to prevent damage. But take care not to fill it up too much. Just enough oil should be added to reach the full mark on the dipstick.
Change the Oil: After five hours of operation the first time you use your generator, change the oil. Then, it ought to be able to go for roughly 100 hours without an oil change. You may find out what kind of oil to use by consulting your owner’s manual.
Check the Filters: Check the filters after each use of the generator. Change the paper filters if they are clearly dirty. Or clean foam ones that have been washed. As instructed in the handbook, let them dry before lubricating them with foam filter oil. If the fuel tank of your generator has a filter cup, clean it by tapping out any debris and cleaning it with a clean rag. Finally, the fuel pipe of certain generators has a gasoline filter fitted. To learn when and how to modify this filter, consult the manual.
Check the Spark Plug: Spark plugs for generators typically need to be changed after a specific number of operating hours; this information should be provided in the manual. If your generator doesn’t have an hour indicator, keep track of how many hours it has ran so you’ll know when to replace it.
Run It Dry: Before putting your generator away, drain the gasoline lines if you anticipate leaving it idle for at least two weeks. Turn off the gasoline valve while the engine is running and let it run out to do this. This keeps the lines and carburetor clean and stops leaks by clearing the fuel from them.
Run It Regularly: Start your generator once a month and let it run for roughly 20 minutes. In addition to lubricating the engine and recharging the battery, it burns off moisture. Consider performing a test run with the generator connected to the transfer switch every few months to make sure it can power all you require.
Store It Properly: Never store your generator outside after using it. Instead, keep it inside a garage or shed where it will be sheltered from the elements.

WHY DOES AIRPLUS CHOOSE GENERAC GENERATORS?

Generac adheres to a vertically integrated philosophy, customers can get a generator system designed, manufactured and supported by a single source. All parts of the production and testing process are controlled by Generac. The results? Shorter lead times and high quality standards. With alternators, enclosures, control systems, fuel tanks, communications software and engines all engineered to do one thing: provide power that a facility needs to achieve its mission. This approach ensures generator systems meet the highest reliability and performance standards. Email or call us at (703) 634-5400 to arrange a free on-site estimate!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What size home generator do I need?

A minimum of 5,000 to 7,500 watts are required to power the essential electrical requirements of the typical American home. Because of this, standby generators typically offer between 9kW and 20kW. Power capacities for typical whole-house generators start around 22,000 watts and increase from there, typically peaking at close to 50,000 watts.

Why buy a home generator from AirPlus?

The AirPlus Heating, Cooling & Electrical team is well known for providing excellent service, doing each job right the first time, on time and within budget. Thousands of satisfied customers in the region have come to see that our work is clean, precise and of course, guaranteed.

How do you install a home generator?

Installing your own standby generator is not your run-of-the-mill DIY project. Unlike changing the oil filter in your car or tiling the spare bathroom, home generator installation includes electrical wiring, plumbing and natural gas components. Contact Airplus to book an appointment.

Does a home generator need annual maintenance?

Generator maintenance is a vital part of owning one. Even if your system has not been used at all for a year, it is going to need servicing. Without regular maintenance, a generator will at the very least not function properly at the time it is needed most.

Does a home generator need annual maintenance?

If you own a standby generator, consider signing an annual maintenance contract with a certified service provider to make the most of your investment. With regular preventative maintenance, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your standby generator.

Why does AirPlus choose Generac generators?

Because Generac adheres to a vertically integrated philosophy, customers can get a generator system designed, manufactured and supported by a single source. All parts of the production and testing process are controlled by Generac.

What are some of the other popular home generator brands?

AirPlus offers free in-home assessments so that you will know the exact cost of your home generator installation upfront. AirPlus will listen to your generator.

How long does a home generator last?

On average, a standby generator can run for up to 3,000 hours powering a medium-sized home, though it is recommended you do not run a generator for longer than 500 hours continuously.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What size home generator do I need?

Why buy a home generator from AirPlus?

How do you install a home generator?

Does a home generator need annual maintenance?

Why does AirPlus choose Generac generators?

What are some of the other popular home generator brands?

AirPlus offers free in-home assessments so that you will know the exact cost of your home generator installation upfront. AirPlus will listen to your generator.

How long does a home generator last?

On average, a standby generator can run for up to 3,000 hours powering a medium-sized home, though it is recommended you do not run a generator for longer than 500 hours continuously.

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Generac Generator Won’t Start. How to Fix Fast? (Expert Tips)

?️ The oil level has gone low

⛽ The fuel tank is empty

? The choke is not working properly

? The fuel valve is closed or clogged

? The carburetor is clogged

⚡The spark plug needs repair/replacement

?You have a dead battery

?Empty fuel tank

? The generator is plugged in

? Clean the air filter

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