If you own a generator for your home, ongoing generator maintenance is part of keeping everything running smoothly. And while it’s not an exhaustive effort to keep your system running in a reliable condition, general generator maintenance is important in extending the life of your system.
Here are five common questions homeowners ask about generator maintenance.
How often should you change your filter?
As a general rule of thumb, generator filters (and oil, for that matter) should be changed after every 100 hours of runtime. As your generator intakes air as it runs, when a filter is dirty, it can limit that intake and cause wear-and-tear on your system.
How often should you check the oil?
When your system is constantly running, it’s best to check the oil every eight hours of runtime. If this is not possible, at the very least, check the oil no later than 24 hours of runtime. As part of your generator maintenance, it’s important the oil is checked and changed in a timely manner so the performance and lifespan of your system is not compromised.
How do you check the oil?
While the generator is off, locate the dipstick at the back of the engine. If your generator was just running, allow it to sit for two minutes so the oil completely settles. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag, then place the dipstick back into the tube. Pull the dipstick out a second time and examine the end; the oil line should be somewhere between ‘F’ (full) and ‘L’ (low). If the oil line is on the low end, you should add more oil.
What type of oil should you use?
While KOHLER recommends homeowners use 5W30 Full Synthetic Oil, you can use a conventional mineral base oil in its place if the former is not available. That said, if your generator has been serviced before and filled with conventional oil, it’s important to continue using conventional oil. Mixing conventional and synthetic oils can have harmful effects on your system’s engine.
Do you need professional generator maintenance?
Unless you’re well equipped and know all the ins and outs of your home’s generator, it’s recommended your generator is serviced every two years or after 200 hours of use. Ongoing generator maintenance helps sustain performance and extends the life of your system. Professionals can change oil, filters, and check on the battery and spark plugs to ensure your system is in reliable conditions.
As a dealer of KOHLER generators, annual maintenance contracts may be available for your current system. If you’re looking to replace your generator or purchase a new system for your home or business, contact us today for a free quote on system sales and installations: 856.769.3932.