Generator Maintenance: Why It Matters
A portable generator that sits in a shed for 11 months and is expected to start first pull during a power outage is one of the most common disappointments in home preparedness. Regular, simple maintenance prevents that failure. Here's the complete schedule.
Before Every Use
- Check oil level — top up if below minimum mark
- Check fuel level and condition (old petrol degrades in 30–90 days)
- Inspect air filter — clean or replace if dirty
- Check for fuel leaks around carburettor and fuel lines
- Check spark plug wire is connected
After First 20 Hours (Break-In Period)
New engines require a break-in oil change. This removes metal particles from the manufacturing process. Change the oil even if it looks clean — this is the most important service interval.
Every 100 Hours or Annually
- Oil change — use manufacturer-specified grade (commonly 10W-30 or SAE 30)
- Air filter — replace foam or paper element
- Spark plug — inspect gap, replace if worn
- Fuel filter — replace inline filter if fitted
- Check all bolts and fasteners — vibration loosens them
Every 200 Hours
- Clean the carburettor jets with carb cleaner spray
- Inspect and clean the fuel tank interior
- Check valve clearances if OHV engine (consult manual)
Long-Term Storage (Over 30 Days)
Petrol sitting in a carburettor evaporates and leaves varnish deposits that block jets — the #1 cause of starting problems after storage.
- Add fuel stabiliser to the fuel tank and run for 5 minutes to treat the carb
- Or run the engine until it stops from fuel starvation (emptier is better)
- Change the oil before storage
- Remove the spark plug and add a teaspoon of clean engine oil into the cylinder, pull cord slowly 3 times to distribute, reinstall plug
- Store in a dry, ventilated location away from heat sources
Monthly Test Run
Start your generator once a month and run it under load (plug in a heater or lamp) for 20–30 minutes. This keeps seals lubricated, the battery charged (if electric start) and ensures it's ready when needed.
FAQ
What oil should I use in my generator?
Most 4-stroke generators specify SAE 30 for temperatures above 0°C, or 10W-30 for variable climates. Check your manual — using the wrong grade can shorten engine life.
My generator won't start after storage — what should I do?
Check fuel freshness first. Then clean or replace the carburettor. Check spark plug. 90% of storage-related no-starts are carburettor issues solvable with a can of carb cleaner.
