How to Maintain Your Generac Generator for Long-Term Reliability

A Generac generator is an excellent investment for any homeowner who values uninterrupted comfort and peace of mind. Whether it’s keeping your home warm during a winter storm or preserving refrigerated food during a summer outage, your generator plays a vital role in protecting your home when the power grid goes down.

But like any piece of equipment, your generator needs routine maintenance to stay reliable. The good news? Keeping your Generac generator in peak condition doesn’t require a complicated process, just consistency, a little attention, and the right support when you need it. Here’s how to make sure your standby power system stays dependable for years to come.

Start With Routine Visual Inspections

It’s easy to forget about your generator when it’s not in use. But a quick monthly walk-around can go a long way toward catching small issues before they turn into big ones.

Take a few minutes to visually inspect the unit. Look for any signs of rust or corrosion, frayed wires, oil leaks, or evidence of animal activity, especially in colder months when rodents and other critters may try to take shelter near warm equipment. Check that the enclosure is secure and hasn’t been damaged by weather or debris.

These inspections don’t replace professional service, but they help you stay ahead of obvious problems that could prevent your generator from starting when you need it most.

Keep the Unit Clean and Clear

Your generator needs proper ventilation and airflow to operate efficiently and safely. Over time, grass, weeds, mulch, or even snow can build up around the unit, restricting airflow and putting extra strain on the engine.

Make it a habit to keep the area around your generator clear. Trim back overgrown landscaping, sweep away leaves, and in the winter, shovel away snow and ice. Avoid storing items near the unit, and don’t use the top of the generator as a shelf no matter how tempting it might be.

While it’s okay to wipe down the outer surface with a damp cloth occasionally, avoid opening the unit unless you're comfortable with its components or have been advised to by a technician.

Check and Change the Oil

Oil is the lifeblood of your generator’s engine. Without it—or with oil that's dirty or old—your system can’t run efficiently and may even suffer serious damage.

If your generator has run for several hours during an outage, checking the oil afterward is essential. Refer to your owner’s manual, but typically, the oil should be changed after every 100 hours of use or at least once a year, whichever comes first. If your unit is exposed to dusty or extreme conditions, you may need to change it more frequently.

Use only the recommended oil grade and type for your model. Skipping this step may void your warranty and lead to engine problems down the line.

Inspect the Air Filter and Spark Plugs

Your generator’s air filter and spark plugs are small parts that play a big role. A clogged air filter limits airflow to the engine, forcing it to work harder and potentially shortening its lifespan. Spark plugs, on the other hand, are crucial for starting the engine and maintaining consistent performance.

Both should be inspected at least once a year. If the air filter looks dirty or discolored, replace it. Spark plugs should be cleaned or replaced if they show signs of wear, corrosion, or carbon buildup. These components are affordable and easy to replace, and keeping them in good shape helps prevent bigger issues later.

Test the Battery Regularly

A generator’s battery is one of the most overlooked components and one of the most common reasons a system fails to start. Batteries degrade over time, especially in extreme temperatures or when not used regularly.

At least once every few months, and especially after a storm, check the battery’s condition. If your unit hasn’t run in a while, manually start the generator and let it run for 15–20 minutes to ensure the battery charges properly. Most batteries last between three to five years, but if your generator is slow to start or has trouble during self-tests, it may be time for a replacement.

Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

While there’s plenty homeowners can do on their own, nothing replaces a full annual inspection from a licensed HVAC or generator technician. During a professional service appointment, a technician will run diagnostic tests, check internal components, ensure the transfer switch is functioning, update the generator’s software (if applicable), and test all electrical connections.

They’ll also check for issues you might not see during a routine inspection, such as voltage irregularities or small leaks. In many cases, annual service is required to keep your manufacturer warranty valid. Even if your generator hasn’t run in a while, it’s essential to confirm that it’s ready to go when needed.

Keep a Maintenance Log

Keeping track of your maintenance efforts may seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference over time. A written record of when you last changed the oil, tested the battery, or scheduled professional service helps you stay consistent and gives your technician valuable insight into your system’s history.

A simple notebook, spreadsheet, or even a notes app on your phone can be used to log dates, service details, and any issues you notice. If you ever need warranty service or want to sell your home, this maintenance record can also serve as a helpful asset.

Let Complete Comfort Help

Your Generac generator is designed to deliver reliable power when your home needs it most but that reliability depends on proper care. With regular inspections, simple upkeep, and annual professional service, you can extend the life of your system and avoid last-minute surprises during a storm or blackout.

If it’s time for a tune-up, or if you’re unsure about your maintenance schedule, Complete Comfort Heating & Cooling is here to help. Our team can inspect, service, and support your Generac system so it’s always ready when the power goes out. Contact us today to schedule your generator maintenance and keep your home protected year-round.