Keep Your Generator Humming: 7 Tips for Portable Generator Maintenance
Portable generators are useful machines that can provide emergency power during outages or electricity in remote locations without power access. Ranging in size from just a few pounds to hundreds of pounds, portable generators offer incredible convenience when temporarily needing power on demand.
However, like any machine, portable generators require proper maintenance and care to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Neglecting maintenance can lead to frustrating breakdowns, costly repairs, and safety hazards. Proper maintenance keeps your generator running smoothly when you need it most.
This guide will provide tips to keep your portable generator in top working order. We'll cover tasks like changing the oil and filters, inspecting connections, cleaning, proper storage, and knowing when to take your generator in for professional service. Follow these generator care tips and your machine will deliver reliable power whenever and wherever you need it. With just a little regular TLC, your portable generator will be your trusty companion on adventures and get you through power outages in comfort.
Read the Manual Thoroughly
The owner's manual for your portable generator contains crucial information for proper maintenance and care. Be sure to fully read the manual and highlight the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. The schedule outlines how often to change the oil, replace the air filter, clean the fuel tank, and perform other routine service.
The manual also provides model-specific tips tailored to your exact generator make and model. Pay close attention to any maintenance notes for features unique to your generator, like dual fuel capability, premium power, or inverter technology. Understanding these specific needs will help you keep your generator running optimally.
Mark the maintenance intervals on your calendar so you don't miss critical service appointments. Make notes or copy important information into a generator logbook for easy reference. Re-read any sections describing maintenance tasks before performing them yourself. Getting to know your generator's unique quirks through the manual will pay off with better performance and longer equipment lifespan.
Change the Oil
Oil is the lifeblood of your portable generator. Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining peak performance and extending the engine’s lifespan.
Most manufacturer manuals recommend changing the generator's oil after the first 20 hours of use when the engine is new. After that, you'll need to change the oil every 50-100 hours of use, or at least once annually if operated infrequently.
Here are the steps for changing your portable generator's oil:
Let the engine cool completely before starting. A hot engine and oil can burn your skin.
Locate the oil drain plug, often found at the lowest point on the engine block. Place an oil catch pan beneath.
Remove the oil dipstick. This allows airflow into the crankcase and helps the old oil drain out faster.
Carefully remove the drain plug. Allow all the oil to fully drain into the catch pan.
Inspect the drain plug and replace it if there are signs of damage or stripped threading.
Select the oil recommended in your owner’s manual. Most portable generators require 10W-30 or 5W-30 weight conventional motor oil. Synthetic oils can be used if specified in the manual.
Refill the engine with new oil up to the “Full” mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill.
Replace the dipstick and oil fill cap when full.
Discard the drained oil in accordance with local hazardous waste regulations. Most auto shops will accept old motor oil.
Run the generator briefly and check for any leaks at the drain plug. Turn off and recheck the oil level. Top off if needed.
Regular oil changes keep your generator running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the road. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure of the recommended service schedule.
Check and Change Fuel
Fuel that sits unused for long periods of time can go stale and cause a number of issues for your portable generator. Here are some tips for properly handling fuel:
Don't let fuel sit in the generator for more than 30 days. Stale fuel can clog carburetors and fuel lines. Run the generator at least monthly to use up old gas.
Add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank if you plan to store the generator for longer than 30 days. Stabilizers prevent fuel from breaking down. Follow the directions on the stabilizer bottle.
Always use fresh, clean unleaded gasoline. Don't use gas left over from last season, as it likely has broken down over time.
Follow proper fueling procedures in the owner's manual. Typically this involves shutting off the generator before refueling, filling on level ground, avoiding spills, and not overfilling the tank.
Check that the fuel cap is properly secured after filling to prevent spills and evaporation.
Consider draining the fuel tank completely before long term storage. Old gas left sitting can damage the fuel system. Run the engine until it stops from lack of fuel.
By properly handling and changing fuel, you can prevent a number of issues caused by degraded, stale, or contaminated gasoline. Follow the generator and stabilizer manufacturer recommendations for best results.
Inspect and Replace Filters
Portable generators have a few different filters that require periodic inspection and replacement. These include:
Air filter: This filter cleans the air before it enters the engine. It should be checked every 100-300 hours, depending on use, and replaced if dirty or clogged. Follow your generator manual for specifics. Make sure to install the new air filter properly so it seals correctly.
Fuel filter: This filter cleans debris from the fuel before it reaches the carburetor or fuel injectors. Replace it every 300-500 hours or once a year. When installing a new fuel filter, take care not to spill fuel. Ensure the flow arrow points in the right direction.
Oil filter: This filters engine oil to remove contaminants. Replace it at each oil change, about every 100-200 hours. Wet the gasket on the new oil filter with fresh oil before screwing it on. Tighten per instructions to avoid leaks.
Regularly inspecting and changing dirty filters is crucial to keep your generator operating smoothly and efficiently. Always use manufacturer recommended replacement intervals and parts. Be sure to install new filters properly to prevent issues.
Clean the Generator
It's important to keep your portable generator clean, both inside and out. A clean generator will run more efficiently and is less likely to have issues.
After each use, be sure to wipe down the exterior of the generator to remove any dirt, dust, debris, or spilled fluids. Use a damp cloth to clean the outside casing and control panel. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasives that could scratch the surfaces.
Check the interior components periodically and use compressed air to blow out any accumulated dust or debris. Excess buildup can cause overheating issues or other problems. Pay close attention to the:
Air vents and cooling fans
Fuel tank
Carburetor
Alternator and other moving parts
Also inspect the muffler and exhaust system. Remove any carbon deposits or obstructions so exhaust can flow freely.
It's a good idea to open up the generator's access panels or covers during cleaning to get to all internal spaces. Just be sure to avoid directly spraying compressed air or liquids near electrical components.
Regular cleaning helps ensure your portable generator continues operating safely and efficiently for years to come. A few minutes of simple maintenance goes a long way.
Check Connections
It's important to periodically inspect the generator's plugs, outlets, and connecting cables. Over time, these can become loose, corroded, or damaged from use and exposure to the elements.
Loose connections can cause electrical arcing, power fluctuations, and even fires. Corroded connections impede electrical flow, potentially causing damage or unpredictable operation. Cracked or worn insulation on cables poses a shock hazard.
When checking connections:
Inspect plugs and connectors on the generator as well as any outlets you commonly use. Look for discoloration, cracks, chips or other signs of wear and tear.
Check that plugs are snugly fitted into outlets. Try wiggling the plug - if it moves, it's too loose.
Examine the insulation on cables and cords. If any are frayed, cracked, or worn, replace them.
Use a circuit tester to check for faulty outlets or faulty transfer switch connections.
Clean any corroded connections with electrical contact cleaner spray. Remove and sand down more stubborn corrosion.
Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to plug terminals. This prevents moisture and corrosion from building up.
Replacing damaged parts right away prevents potentially dangerous situations down the road. It also ensures you get clean, consistent power output from your generator when you need it. Keeping connections in top shape is simple maintenance that extends the life of your generator.
Test and Exercise
Regularly testing and exercising your portable generator is essential to ensure it runs properly when you need it. It is recommended to run your generator at least once per month for 10-15 minutes under a 50% load.
Follow these steps when testing your portable generator:
Before starting, check the oil and fuel levels. Refill if needed.
Make sure the generator is outdoors in an area with good ventilation. Never run a generator indoors or in an enclosed space due to risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Connect appliances or tools to create a 50% load, such as a circular saw, power drill, sump pump, fridge or freezer. Avoid overload.
Start the generator according to the instructions in your owner's manual. Let it warm up for a few minutes.
Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations that could indicate an issue. The generator should run smoothly.
Monitor the control panel to ensure voltage and frequency remain steady. Fluctuations could signify a problem.
Run the generator for 10-15 minutes under 50% load. Gradually add more load if needed.
When finished, turn off the connected equipment before shutting down the generator. Allow it to cool down.
Periodically exercising your portable generator ensures it will be ready to provide backup power when you need it most. Test under load to confirm all electrical components are functioning properly. Routine maintenance along with monthly startups will extend the life of your generator.
Store Properly
Proper storage is crucial to keeping your portable generator running when you need it. Here are some tips for storing your generator for long periods of time:
Prepare the Generator
Drain all fuel from the tank, fuel lines, and carburetor to prevent gumming or corrosion. Use a fuel stabilizer if storing ethanol blended gas.
Change the oil and filter to remove contaminants. Used motor oil can damage engine parts while in storage.
Remove the spark plug and pour about a tablespoon of engine oil into the cylinder. Crank the engine to coat the cylinder walls. Replace the spark plug. This prevents cylinder rust.
Clean debris and dirt buildup from the generator. Dirt and moisture can lead to corrosion.
Disconnect the battery and store it indoors. Trickle charge the battery every 1-2 months.
Ideal Storage Conditions
Store the generator in a clean, dry place away from the elements. Avoid excess heat, humidity, or temperature fluctuations.
Place the generator on a pallet or shelf to avoid direct contact with concrete floors, which can cause corrosion.
Cover the generator with a breathable tarp. Avoid tightly sealed plastic which can trap moisture.
For long-term storage, consider adding fuel stabilizer to the empty tank to prevent rust.
Store the generator indoors if possible. If storing outside, place a cover over the unit and keep it elevated.
Proper preparation and ideal storage conditions will help prevent fuel system and engine damage. Your portable generator will be ready to reliably power equipment when needed.
When to Service
Regular maintenance is important for keeping your portable generator running smoothly, but servicing is also necessary periodically. Follow your generator manufacturer's recommendations for when to have your unit serviced by an authorized dealer. This is typically recommended after a certain number of running hours or years of use.
Signs that your generator may need servicing include:
Increased noise or vibration during operation
Failure to start
Reduced power output or surging
Excessive smoke or fumes
Fouled or damaged spark plugs
Fuel leaks
If you notice any of these issues, it's best to have your generator serviced rather than attempting repairs on your own. Servicing involves more extensive maintenance tasks that require specialized tools and knowledge. A generator technician can:
Perform engine tuning and adjustments
Clean or replace damaged parts
Test components like alternators, starters, and controllers
Identify underlying causes of operational problems
While regular DIY maintenance like oil changes keeps your generator in good shape between servicing, a professional servicing guarantees your generator is running optimally and can identify potential problems before they lead to a breakdown. Think of it as a routine check-up for your generator's long-term health and performance.