A reliable generator maintenance can be a lifesaver during power outages, but only if it's properly maintained. Many generator owners overlook routine maintenance until problems arise, leading to costly repairs or complete failure when you need power most.
We've helped countless customers avoid these headaches through simple, regular maintenance practices.
Regular maintenance is the key to extending your generator's lifespan and ensuring it performs at peak efficiency when you need it most. This includes checking oil levels, cleaning air filters, inspecting spark plugs, and testing batteries, tasks that take minimal time but deliver maximum benefits.
Whether you own a portable unit or a whole-house system, these maintenance musts apply to nearly all generators and can be performed without special skills or tools.
In this article, you’ll learn how to perform essential generator maintenance tasks like oil changes and fuel checks to keep your system reliable year-round.
Let’s break down the key points you should consider:
By following our maintenance checklist, you'll not only prevent breakdowns but also save money on repairs and replacement parts
why generator maintenance isn't optional (especially in extreme weather)
Generator maintenance is a crucial part of home preparedness that protects your investment and ensures power when you need it most. Extreme weather events put extra stress on backup power systems when they're most critical.
A poorly maintained generator can fail when you need it most
Generators that sit idle for long periods are especially vulnerable to failure during emergencies. Fuel can degrade, batteries can lose charge, and components can rust or wear out silently while not in use.
During extreme weather like winter storms, hurricanes, or summer heatwaves, power outages are more common but your generator faces additional challenges. Cold temperatures can thicken oil and reduce battery efficiency. Heat can cause overheating and component stress.
Without regular checks, small issues become major failures. Clogged filters restrict airflow and can cause overheating. Old spark plugs lead to hard starts or misfires. Degraded fuel clogs fuel lines.
We recommend running your generator at least once per month for about 20–30 minutes.
Industry guidelines, including EPA regulations, allow up to 50 hours per year for maintenance and testing, with a total annual runtime cap of 500 hours for emergency standby generators. Staying within these limits helps ensure long-term reliability and regulatory compliance.
How routine checks prevent costly breakdowns
Regular maintenance saves money in the long run. A simple oil change costs around $50-100, while a major repair from neglect can exceed $1,000.
Here's what routine maintenance prevents:
- Fuel system damage from stale fuel
- Engine seizure from low oil levels
- Electrical failures from corroded connections
- Starting problems from weak batteries
We see that properly maintained generators typically last 10-15 years, while neglected units often fail within 5-7 years.
Scheduling maintenance before storm seasons is smart preparation. For hurricane-prone areas, schedule checks in early spring. In areas with winter storms, late fall maintenance ensures readiness.
Professional inspections catch problems homeowners might miss, like loose connections or worn belts before they cause catastrophic failures.
Generator maintenance and home insurance: What you should know
Many homeowners don't realize that generator maintenance can affect insurance coverage. Some policies require proof of proper maintenance for claims related to backup power systems.
If a poorly maintained generator causes property damage (like a fire from faulty wiring), your home insurance might deny the claim based on negligence.
We recommend:
- Checking your policy for specific generator maintenance requirements
- Keeping detailed maintenance records and receipts
- Following manufacturer guidelines precisely
- Using qualified technicians for annual inspections
Some insurance companies offer discounts for homes with properly maintained standby generators as they reduce claims from power outage damages like frozen pipes or food spoilage.
Professional maintenance services often provide documentation that satisfies insurance requirements while ensuring your generator remains in optimal condition.
Your generator maintenance checklist
Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your generator reliable when you need it most. Following these essential tasks will help prevent breakdowns and extend your generator's life.
Check fuel levels and fuel quality
Fuel issues are the number one cause of generator failures. We recommend checking fuel levels before each use and keeping your tank at least half full.
For standby generators, inspect fuel levels weekly. Old fuel can damage your generator's engine components, so drain any fuel that's been sitting for more than 30 days.
If you must store fuel for longer periods, add a fuel stabilizer. This prevents the fuel from degrading and forming harmful deposits in the carburetor and fuel system.
For diesel generators, watch for water contamination. Water in diesel fuel can cause serious engine damage. Use a fuel-water separator and check it regularly to remove any water.
Don't forget to check fuel lines for cracks or leaks during your inspections. Replace damaged lines immediately to prevent fuel leaks and potential fire hazards.
Oil changes: When and how often to do them
Oil is your generator's lifeblood. We recommend changing the oil after the first 25 hours of operation for new generators. After that, follow this schedule:
- Portable generators: Every 50-100 operating hours
- Standby generators: Every 150-200 operating hours or annually
- Heavy-use generators: More frequently based on operating conditions
Always check oil levels before starting your generator. Low oil can cause catastrophic engine damage.
When changing oil, make sure the generator is cool but not cold. Warm oil flows better and carries more contaminants out. Use the manufacturer's recommended oil type and viscosity for your specific model and climate conditions.
Don't forget to replace the oil filter during oil changes. A clean filter helps keep the new oil free from contaminants.
Clean filters, spark plugs, and cooling vents
Dirty components reduce efficiency and can lead to overheating. Air filters should be checked monthly and replaced every 200 operating hours or sooner if visibly dirty.
For spark plugs, inspect them every 100 operating hours. Look for:
- Buildup or deposits
- Damaged electrodes
- Correct gap spacing
Replace spark plugs annually even if they look fine. New plugs ensure proper starting and efficient operation.
Cooling vents and fins need regular cleaning to prevent overheating. Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove dust and debris monthly. Never use water to clean electrical components.
For liquid-cooled generators, check coolant levels and condition regularly. Replace coolant according to the manufacturer's schedule, typically every two years.
Run the generator periodically to avoid startup issues
Generators need exercise. We recommend running your generator for at least 30 minutes under load every month.
This practice:
- Lubricates engine components
- Burns off moisture
- Recharges the starting battery
- Identifies potential problems before an emergency
During these test runs, connect at least 50% of the generator's rated load. Running without load can cause "wet stacking" in diesel generators or carbon buildup in gasoline models.
Monitor your generator during these tests. Listen for unusual noises, watch for excessive smoke, and check that voltage and frequency outputs are stable.
In cold climates, consider installing a block heater to help with winter starting. Battery maintenance is also crucial – keep terminals clean and check charging systems regularly.
How to reset maintenance reminders (including Generac models)
Keeping track of maintenance schedules ensures your generator operates efficiently when you need it most. Resetting the maintenance reminders properly helps you maintain accurate service records and avoid unnecessary service calls.
Step-by-Step: How to reset a Generac generator's maintenance alert
Generac generators use a yellow maintenance reminder light to signal when service is needed. This light turns on based on the unit's running hours or calendar time.
To reset the maintenance reminder on most Generac models:
- Access the control panel - Locate the main controller interface on your generator.
- Enter dealer mode - Press and hold the "escape" button for approximately 10 seconds.
- Navigate the menu - Use the up/down arrows to find "Maintenance Reset" option.
- Confirm reset - Press "enter" to reset the maintenance timer.
- Exit the menu - Press "escape" to return to the main screen.
For Evolution/Sync 2.0 controllers, the process is similar but may require a dealer access code for certain functions. Always refer to your specific model's user manual for exact instructions.
When to call in a technician vs DIY
We recommend handling basic maintenance resets yourself after completing routine maintenance like oil changes and filter replacements. These simple tasks don't typically require professional help.
However, call a qualified technician when:
- You don't have the dealer access code needed for some reset functions
- The maintenance light continues to display after reset attempts
- You notice unusual noises, performance issues, or warning messages
- Your generator requires internal component replacement or adjustments
Remember that attempting complex repairs without proper knowledge can void your warranty. Generac specifically notes that regular maintenance is crucial for warranty compliance.
For generators still under warranty, we suggest consulting with an authorized dealer before attempting any reset procedures beyond those clearly outlined in your owner's manual.
How often should you run your generator for maintenance?
Regular exercise keeps your generator ready for when you need it most. Running your generator periodically prevents fuel system issues, lubricates moving parts, and helps identify problems before an emergency.
Best frequency to keep systems lubricated and ready
We recommend running your generator at least once per month for about 20-30 minutes. This monthly exercise ensures that oil circulates through the engine components, keeping everything properly lubricated. Without regular operation, seals can dry out and gaskets may develop leaks.
In colder climates, you might need to run your generator more frequently—every two weeks—to prevent moisture buildup in the system.
For standby generators, most automatic models will run a self-test weekly, but you should still monitor these test cycles to ensure they're working properly.
Remember to check oil levels before each maintenance run. Proper lubrication is critical for preventing premature wear on engine parts.
Load testing: What it is and when it matters
Load testing means running your generator while it's powering appliances or equipment—not just idling. We strongly recommend performing a load test quarterly to ensure your generator can handle actual power demands.
EPA technical guidance supports monthly operation of emergency generators under at least 30% load for 30 minutes to prevent issues like wet stacking and ensure the system stays properly lubricated and functional.
During a load test:
- Connect at least 50% of the generator's rated capacity
- Run for 30-60 minutes under this load
- Monitor for unusual noises, vibrations, or overheating
Load testing reveals issues that won't appear during no-load operation. It confirms that your generator can deliver power when needed and helps prevent carbon buildup in the engine.
For portable generators, connect several high-wattage appliances. For standby units, use your transfer switch to power a portion of your home's circuits.
What manufacturers recommend (and why to follow it)
Most generator manufacturers specify running your unit monthly for 20-30 minutes under load. These recommendations aren't arbitrary—they're based on extensive testing and real-world performance data.
Your owner's manual likely includes:
- Run frequency: Typically monthly, with specific timing
- Duration: Usually 20-30 minutes minimum
- Load recommendations: Often 25-50% of capacity
Following manufacturer guidelines helps maintain warranty coverage and extends your generator's lifespan. Different models may have specific requirements, so always check your manual.
We've found that generators maintained according to manufacturer specifications typically last 10-15 years, while neglected units often fail within 5-7 years—a significant difference in your investment protection.
Conclusion
Regular generator maintenance is essential to keep your power system reliable and ready when you need it most. By following the checklist we've outlined, you can extend the life of your generator and avoid costly repairs or replacements.
Remember to check oil levels frequently, replace filters as needed, and test your battery regularly. These simple tasks make a big difference in performance.
Don't forget to run your generator monthly under load to ensure all systems are working properly. This helps prevent fuel issues and keeps components lubricated.
For long-term storage, always drain old fuel or add a stabilizer to prevent gum formation in the carburetor. This small step saves major headaches later.
While many maintenance tasks can be done yourself, don't hesitate to call certified technicians for more complex issues or annual professional servicing. Their expertise ensures your generator remains in optimal condition.
With proper care and attention, your generator will provide reliable backup power for years to come. The small investment of time in maintenance today prevents power failures tomorrow.
Schedule professional generator maintenance today to ensure optimal performance, prevent costly failures, and protect your backup power system year-round.
