Oil Changes

Just like any other combustion engine out

there, Generac standby generators need to

have regular oil changes. Depending on

how often your automatic backup generators

had been used during power outages any given

year will dictate the frequency of oil changes.

Typically, oil changes for Generac generators

are needed only once a year but may require

bi-annual changes if the generator is used

more than 150 hours in any given timeframe.

Also, generators exercise weekly in most cases,

and as the engine cools it condensates.

Because of this, moisture gathers in the oil &

we want to remove that yearly at a minimum.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are critical to your Generac

generator’s ability to provide backup power

during outages and usually don’t need to be

swapped out as regularly as bi-annual or

annual oil changes. That doesn’t mean they

should be ignored during inspection.

All standby generators should have annual

inspections of their spark plugs to make

sure they’re clean and firing properly

& should always be replaced if they’re

drenched in carbon or have weak ignition.

Filters 

Generac generators have three primary filters,

oil, fuel, and air, that should always be

inspected and replaced as needed. 

When your generator gets an oil change, make

sure the oil filter is changed at the same time.

Reusing old oil filters with fresh oil is a bad idea

since you would be introducing clean oil to a

dirty filter filled with tiny metal fragments

& other impurities which can greatly

reduce its performance and lifespan.

Fuel filters on Generac generators always

need to be evaluated during inspections

& if they appear to be dirty or old,

they should be replaced.

Unlike oil filters that need to be replaced with

each oil change, fuel filters can last years

before needing to be changed but always

inspect them. All combustion engines

have to take in fresh air, so be sure your

Generac generator’s air filter is looked at

during inspections and general maintenance.

If the air filter is filled with debris or appears

generally dirty, replace it. If your generator

can’t take in fresh air, it can’t properly

function or may even fail when it’s most needed.

Battery

Smaller home and commercial Generac

generators have only one large battery in

them coupled with a charger to maximize

your battery’s life. 

When inspecting and maintaining your

generator, make sure the battery and its

charger are tested and that the battery has

good amperage. If the charger isn’t functioning

properly or the battery’s amperage is low,

replace them immediately. A failing

charger or drained battery will lead

to a generator’s inability to start or work at all. 

Gas regulator

Natural gas regulators have a lot going on and

need to be addressed regularly, gaskets,

diaphragms & fitting are weak points in

your fuel system and can cause serious

issues leaving you without backup power.

We carefully look at these during

annual servicing of units.

Other items that should be inspected

and maintained or replaced include:

• Charger (for battery)

  
  
  
  
  

• Coolant system (if applicable)

  
  
  
  
  

  Alternator (often overlooked)

  
  
  
  
  

• Transfer switch

  
  
  
  
  

  (most common problems happen

  
  
  
  
  

  to those exposed to the elements)

If you’ve invested or are thinking about

investing in a Generac generator for your

home or businesses, don’t forget to maintain it.

Bi-annual inspections & regular maintenance

of your system will ensure it’s well-oiled

& fine-tuned and ready when you need it most. 

If you have an automatic Generac generator &

need it properly maintained and/or serviced

by certified Generac technicians, call us at 

306-763-6642 to speak with a representative.