When it’s time to break out your generator, it is important to know that it’s ready for the task ahead. Stay on top of power outages with this guide to common generator mistakes. Recognizing a mistake early on and knowing how to fix it can make all the difference.
Mistake #1: Fuel
Old fuel in your generator is one of the most common mistakes made by generator owners. Fuel will oxidize and deteriorate in storage; old fuel can cause hard starting and leave gum deposits that clog the fuel system. If that happens you may need to have you fuel components serviced or replaced.
The length of time that gasoline can be stored in the generators fuel tank and carburetor depends on many factors, gasoline blend, very warm storage temperatures and whether fuel tanks are partially full or filled to the top. Air in a partially filled fuel tank promotes fuel deterioration; warm air accelerates deterioration. Fuel problems can occur within a few months, or quicker if the gasoline was not fresh at the time of filling the tank. Fuel stabilizers are formulated to extend storage life.
Mistake #2: Improper storage
Recommended service and storage procedures: (Fuel stabilizers are formulated to extend storage life)
1 – Fuel that is less than a month old – Needs no preparation.
2 – Fuel that is one to two months old – Fill with fresh gasoline and add fuel stabilizer.
3 – Fuel that is two months to a year old – Fill with fresh fuel and add fuel stabilizer, turn the fuel off and drain the carburetor float bowl.
4 – Fuel that is more then a year old – Drain the fuel tank and carburetor, and always store your generator upright.
Mistake #3: Fuel Vent
Most generators have a self venting fuel cap on top of their fuel tank. Some generators have a fuel vent that is located on the top of the fuel cap that can be turned off. This is a safety mechanism. If you make the mistake of not turning the vent on, you will know in a matter of minutes. The generator will run for two to three minutes before shutting off because the vent is not open, causing the fuel not to flow into the carburetor and starving the engine of fuel. If this happens simply turn the vent on and restart the engine.
Mistake #4: Engine oil maintenance
Improper engine oil maintenance is another common mistake which can lead to poor lubrication. This can cause premature wear on your generator’s engine internal parts, and can eventually result in permanent engine damage and generator failure. Always check your engine oil before you start your generator’s engine.
Oil is a major factor that affects performance and engine life. Use 4-stroke automotive detergent oil that is certified by the Society of Automotive Engineering. SAE 10W-30 is recommended for general use. Depending on the ambient temperature other viscosities may be recommended. Always follow your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change schedules and drain the oil while the engine is warm to assure rapid and complete draining.
Note: Over filling your engine can cause engine problems. If the engine is overfilled with oil, the excess oil may be transferred to the air cleaner case and air filter causing the engine to choke out and stall.
Mistake #5: Watt Requirements
Add up the watts for each appliance that you intend to run off of your generator to find out if your generator is large enough to support all your needs. If all items are turned on at once and are pulling more power than your generator produces the circuit breaker will trip and power will stop. To fix this problem unplug all items and reset your circuit breaker then turn the needed items on one by one being careful not to over load you generator. Knowing your watt requirements will help you avoid tripping a circuit breaker.
Mistake#6: Back feeding
Do not back feed because it’s a very dangerous practice. Back feeding can harm family members, and cause serious injuries to power company line men working on the pole trying to restore your power.
Back feeding occurs when electrical power is being induced into the house power grid. This is done by using a double-ended extension cord to run power backwards into a wall receptacle to power up the circuit. When power is restored it dead heads causing damage to your generator and a possible fire. If you want to avoid running multiple extension cords to run appliances around your house then hire an electrician to install a transfer switch.
You May Also Enjoy These Articles:
Generator Operation and Safety Tips
Buyer’s Guide to a Portable Generator
Convert Amps To Watts For Generator Use
6 Ways to Prepare For Winter Storm
Why Weingartz?
Weingartz, family owned and operated, began in 1945 as a farm supply store for local Michigan families. In the 1970s, we began to focus exclusively on outdoor power equipment. Over time, we morphed into the “power equipment superstore” that now defines all of our locations. The staff and experts at Weingartz work diligently to provide the best service possible and give honest and helpful advice to each and every customer.
Weingartz also sells parts for all outdoor power equipment at https://weingartz.com/parts-lookup.
Weingartz
39050 Grand River Ave.
Farmington Hills, MI 48335
(248) 471-3050
info@weingartz.com
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