Like all thermal engines, the power assembly of a generator , whether gasoline or diesel, must be regularly maintained. Regular maintenance depends on fuel consumption , performance, reliability and safety of use.

1. Follow a maintenance schedule

Like all thermal engine equipment, for your generator to operate correctly,  without consuming too much while ensuring your safety , you must respect a maintenance schedule.

Here is a typical maintenance schedule, whatever the model and power of your group.

If not in use, a load test is recommended at least once a month . This test is carried out in real conditions, with a load of at least 50% (for example for a group with a nominal power of 2000 W, use a receiver with at least 1000 W power).

For generators equipped with an electric starter,  the battery electrolyte level should be checked approximately every 100 hours of operation .

2. Check the oil level and change the oil

An essential check for any thermal engine,  the oil level is the basis for maintaining your generator . The level should be checked at least once a month.

To get a good measure, rotate your group for ten minutes. Let it cool for about 5 minutes and  check the oil level . Top up if necessary (be careful not to add too much oil!).

Draining is done approximately every 50 hours of operation.

Start by placing a collection tray under the drain plug. When cold, loosen the drain plug slightly.

Run your generator for ten minutes. About five minutes after stopping,  open the fill port, then open the drain plug and let the oil flow . Clean, dry, and refit the cap. Don’t forget to replace the gasket if your group has one.

Then fill the crankcase with new oil  corresponding to the manufacturer’s specifications . Check the level, and close the filling port. Check the level in the same manner as the periodic check, and top up if necessary.

3. Maintain the air filter

Good air intake is synonymous with good combustion. This results in  limited consumption and better performance . The air filter is therefore an important component to check, clean and change regularly.

To clean it, it is generally sufficient to  disassemble the air box and remove the filter from its housing . Using a blow gun, clean the filter meticulously to remove all impurities.

This cleaning is most often done at the same time as an oil change

Every 100 hours of operation,  the old filter must be replaced with a new one . The method is exactly the same as for cleaning.No need to be a mechanical expert to carry out routine maintenance on a gasoline or diesel generator yourself . Knowing how to dismantle a spark plug, drain the oil and use a blow gun are essential for maintaining a unit.

For slightly more specific tasks such as cleaning the combustion chamber or adjusting the valve clearance, go to a professional or refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. For warranty or regulatory issues , depending on the generators and their installation, maintenance must be carried out by an approved professional.