Good Generator Maintenance

Good generator maintenance is essential for the safe, economical, and trouble-free operation of your generator. It will also help with air pollution.

The following maintenance tips apply to normal operating conditions. If you operate your generator under unusual conditions, such as sustained high load or high-temperature operation, or use it in dusty conditions, speak to your local authorized generator dealer on a necessary maintenance schedule to suit.

Fuel Recommendations for Petrol Generators

• Use regular unleaded fuel with an octane number of 89 or higher.
• Never use stale or contaminated fuel, and avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.
• You can use regular unleaded fuel containing no more than 10% ethanol or 5% methanol by volume.

Engine damage or performance problems that result from using a fuel with percentages of ethanol or methanol greater than this are not covered under warranty from manufacturers.

Air Cleaner Service

• Inspect the air filter, if the air filter is dirty or broken replace it, otherwise a quick clean of the air filter can mean you can re-use it again.

Spark Plug Service

• To ensure proper engine operation, the spark plug must be properly gapped and free of deposits.
• You should clean your spark plug every 100 hours and change it every 300 hours.

Note - A loose spark plug can overheat and damage the engine.

Muffler & Spark Arrestor Service

• Check the muffler & spark arrester for an excess build-up of carbon.
• Give both the spark arrestor and muffler a good clean to remove traces of carbon deposits.

Are they in good condition? If not, replace them.

Battery Service

If your model generator is an electric start, your generator's engine charging system charges the battery while the engine is running. However, if the generator is only used periodically, the battery must be charged monthly to maintain the battery service life.