\Routine generator maintenance ensures a reliable backup power source during outages and extends the life of the unit. As part of this maintenance routine, the operator should check the generator weekly, look for warning lights or error codes, and inspect the fuel system monthly. You should also check oil levels, inspect the battery, and look for physical damage regularly. For homeowners and businesses relying on professional electrical services, incorporating a consistent generator maintenance schedule is essential.
Regularly washing the exterior, replacing the air filter, and reviewing battery voltage every 90 days ensures consistent performance. Every six months, the oil and spark plugs must be changed, the belts and hoses inspected, and the transfer switch tested. Understanding how often to service your generator, following a proper generator service schedule, including yearly tune-ups and filter replacements, ensures efficient operation and reduces the risk of unexpected failures.
Different Generator Maintenance Tasks and Service Frequency
Here are some generator maintenance tasks to follow:
1. Exercise Test
How often: Once a week
Run the generator for 15–20 minutes to move fluids around and allow optimal unit operation. This keeps the battery healthy and can help you catch problems before a crisis.
2. Check for Warning Lights/Error Codes
How often: Weekly
Check the control panel to diagnose problems early. Today’s generators have error codes for fuel, battery, or other faults.
3. Inspect Fuel Level
How often: Monthly
Inspect the fuel tank and lines for leaks or signs of rust. If you have a diesel generator, look for algae in the tank, which can form in humid locations.
4. Perform an Oil Dipstick Reading
How often: Monthly and after every use
Check the oil level with a dipstick and add oil if it is below the minimum level. The long-term use of a generator with low oil can cause engine damage.
5. Check Battery Health and Clean Terminals
How often: Monthly
Corroded or loose battery terminals can keep the generator from charging. Scrape any white or green buildup, and clean the terminals with a battery terminal cleaner or a baking soda mix.
6. Test Coolant Levels (Liquid-cooled Generators)
How often: Monthly
Inspect the radiator (when it’s cool) to verify that coolant levels are adequate. If the coolant level is low, the generator will overheat while working.
7. Check for Physical Damage, Corrosion, or Loose Wires
How often: Monthly
Inspect the whole unit, including the body, wiring, connections, etc. This allows you to catch problems such as frayed wires, rodent damage, or rust before they become bigger issues.
8. Clean the Outside of the Generator and the Air Vents
How often: Every 3 months
Clean the outside and air intake vents of dirt, dust, and leaves. Dirty or blocked vents can cause overheating and poor performance.
9. Replace Air Filter
How often: Every 3 months
A clean air filter also helps maintain fuel economy and smoother function. If you live in a dusty or pollen-ridden area, change the filters every 3 months or more frequently, depending on the need.
10. Test the Voltage and Load Capacity of the Battery
How often: Every 3 months
Check the battery using a multimeter or battery tester. Weak or underperforming batteries are the primary reason generators fail during outages.
11. Replace the Oil Filter and Engine Oil
How often: Every 6 months or 100 hours of use
Used, dirty, or contaminated oil can lead to poor lubrication and fail to protect internal engine parts, which can wear them down more quickly. If your generator has been operating continuously for more than one day (like during a power outage), change the oil and filter to remove impurities and prevent engine wear.
12. Check and Clean Spark Plugs (Gasoline Models)
How often: Every 6 months
Also, remove the spark plugs and check them for carbon deposits on the surface or damage. Scrub them with a wire brush or replace them if worn or corroded.
13. Inspect and Tighten Belts, Hoses, and Connections
How often: Every 6 months
Loose or worn-out belts can break while operating. Fluid might leak through cracked hoses. Inspect all mechanical components for excessive wear and replace as necessary.
14. Test Automatic Transfer Switch or ATS (if Equipped)
How often: Every 6 months
Simulate a power outage to confirm that the transfer switch shifts power from the utility line to the generator. This is particularly important for stand-by systems.
15. Replace Spark Plugs
How often: Annually
Even if they look clean, spark plugs should be serviced once a year to ensure the engine starts easily and runs smoothly.
16. Refill the Coolant System
How often: Every 1–2 years
Older coolant can deteriorate and corrode engine components. Drain the coolant system, flush it, and replace it with fresh coolant.
17. Full Inspection
How often: Annually
The inspection will include checking high voltage output, adjusting the valves if necessary, cleaning the carburetor, and checking the control panel. It helps prolong the life cycle of your generator.
Conclusion
A regular maintenance schedule keeps your generator running smoothly throughout the year. You prepare it for emergencies by running the generator and checking for error codes weekly. Checking the monthly fuel system, oil level, battery, and coolant charge identifies small problems early. Clean the exterior, test the battery, and replace the air filters every three months, maintaining efficient airflow and power delivery.
After six months, servicing spark plugs, performing oil changes, and inspecting belts reduces the chance of failure. With annual filter changes, coolant flushes, and a complete tune-up, you extend your generator's lifespan.
