Portable Generator Maintenance Checklist

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Get a portable generator ready before winter outages: fresh fuel, oil, a test under load, safe cords and a safe place to run it outdoors.

• Find the owner's manual, or download it using the model number

  The oil type, service intervals and wattage ratings are all in it.

• Search the model number for recalls on cpsc.gov
• Drain gasoline that has sat in the tank untreated since spring

  Stale fuel makes the engine hard to start and leaves deposits in the carburetor.

• Fill up with fresh gasoline mixed with fuel stabilizer

  Run the engine outdoors for a few minutes afterwards so treated fuel reaches the carburetor.

• Check the oil level, and change the oil if it is due

  Many models shut themselves off when the oil runs low, which looks like a fault in the middle of an outage.

• Clean or replace the air filter
• Pull the spark plug and replace it if it is worn or fouled
• Charge the battery if it has electric start

  Keep the pull cord working too, in case the battery is flat when you need it.

• Look over the fuel line and tank for cracks or leaks
• Start it outdoors and run it with something plugged in

  A work light or space heater shows the outlets deliver power, which an idling engine does not prove.

• List what you want to run in an outage and add up the watts

  A fridge or well pump draws much more for a few seconds as its motor starts, so count starting watts as well as running watts.

• Work out how your furnace would get power

  A gas furnace still needs electricity for its blower and controls, and it is usually hard-wired. A transfer switch or interlock is the safe way to run it from a generator.

• Never plug the generator into a wall outlet

  This backfeeds power into the utility lines, where it can electrocute line workers, and it can damage your wiring. Have a licensed electrician fit a transfer switch or interlock instead.

• Check extension cords are outdoor rated and heavy enough for the load

  Throw out any cord with cut insulation or a missing ground pin.

• Choose the spot where it will run

  Outdoors on level ground, at least 20 feet from the house, with the exhaust aimed away from doors, windows and vents.

• Plan how to keep it dry in rain or snow

  Use a cover made for running generators. Never run it inside a shed or an enclosed porch, which trap exhaust.

• Test the carbon monoxide alarms on every floor

  Fit one on any floor that has none. Alarms with a battery or battery backup keep working when the power is out.

• Store gasoline in fuel containers outside the living space

  A detached shed is a better place than an attached garage.

• Work out how much fuel a day of running uses

  The manual gives run time per tank at a stated load. Store what you need, and treat or use up stored gas so it does not go stale.

• Keep spare oil, a spark plug and an air filter with the generator
• Shut it off and let it cool before every refill

  Gasoline spilled on a hot engine can catch fire.

• Keep a flashlight and work gloves next to it
• Chain it to something solid if it will run out of sight

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