When the power goes out, your generator becomes the heartbeat of your home. But just like any engine-powered equipment, it needs regular maintenance to stay ready, reliable, and safe. Whether you’re shopping for a portable generator for short-term blackouts or a whole-home standby system, one critical question to ask is: How often does a generator need maintenance or servicing?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything a homeowner needs to know about generator maintenance—based on type, usage, manufacturer guidelines, and best practices. Keeping your generator in top condition ensures it runs smoothly when you need it most.
Why Generator Maintenance Matters
Your generator is your emergency backup when the grid fails, so it’s not something you want to leave unchecked. Neglecting maintenance can lead to:
- Failure to start during a power outage
- Engine damage from dirty oil or fuel
- Reduced fuel efficiency and performance
- Carbon buildup or overheating
- Voided warranties and costly repairs
Think of your generator like a car—if you don’t change the oil, check the battery, or run it periodically, it won’t be there for you when you need it.
How Often Should a Generator Be Serviced?
Generator maintenance frequency depends on several factors, including:
- Type of generator (portable vs. standby)
- Usage frequency and duration
- Environmental conditions (humidity, temperature, dust)
- Fuel type (gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas)
- Manufacturer’s specific recommendations
That said, most generators follow this general guideline:
🕒 Portable Generators:
- Check before every use
- Change oil: Every 50–100 hours of use or annually (whichever comes first)
- Air filter: Inspect after 25 hours, replace every 100 hours
- Spark plug: Inspect every 100 hours or annually
- Run the generator monthly: At least 15–30 minutes under load
🕒 Standby Generators:
- Automatic weekly self-test: Built-in on most models
- Change oil: Every 100–200 hours of operation or once a year
- Replace air filters: Annually or as needed
- Professional servicing: Every 6–12 months
Pro Tip: Always refer to your generator’s user manual for maintenance intervals specific to your make and model.
Portable Generator Maintenance Checklist
For homeowners using a portable generator during occasional outages, here’s a quick maintenance schedule:
✅ Before Each Use:
- Check engine oil level
- Inspect fuel lines and tank for leaks or stale fuel
- Ensure the air filter is clean
- Verify proper cord condition and grounding
- Start generator and run under load briefly to ensure functionality
✅ After Every 50–100 Hours or Annually:
- Change oil and oil filter (if applicable)
- Clean or replace air filter
- Inspect spark plug and replace if fouled or corroded
- Check battery (if electric start)
- Clean carburetor (if generator sits unused for months)
✅ Seasonal Storage (or after storm season):
- Drain or stabilize fuel
- Clean exterior and air intake
- Store in a dry, covered, well-ventilated area
Standby Generator Maintenance Schedule
Standby generators are designed to start automatically during outages and run for extended periods. But they still require routine checks and professional maintenance to ensure reliability.
🔧 Monthly (User Checklist):
- Check oil and coolant levels
- Inspect for leaks or loose wires
- Clear debris and obstructions from the enclosure
- Review control panel for alerts or errors
🔧 Every 6 Months (Professional Recommended):
- Inspect spark plugs, battery, belts, and hoses
- Test system under load
- Clean and inspect transfer switch
- Update firmware or control panel settings
🔧 Annually:
- Change engine oil and filter
- Replace air filter and fuel filter
- Flush coolant system if required
- Perform a full diagnostics check
Note: Most standby generator manufacturers (like Generac, Kohler, and Briggs & Stratton) offer annual maintenance plans through authorized dealers to keep your unit in top shape and preserve your warranty.
Fuel-Specific Maintenance Tips
🛢️ Gasoline Generators:
- Use fresh, stabilized fuel—gasoline degrades in 3–6 months
- Drain fuel between uses if not stabilized
- Clean or replace carburetor if unit sits unused for long periods
🔥 Propane Generators:
- Check hose fittings and regulators for leaks
- Ensure tank is full and valves are functioning
- Inspect for frost buildup or low pressure in cold weather
💨 Natural Gas Generators:
- Inspect gas lines annually
- Schedule a licensed technician to check pressure and connections
🖤 Diesel Generators:
- Use treated diesel fuel to prevent microbial growth
- Check for water accumulation in fuel tanks
- Replace fuel filters regularly
How to Know When It’s Time for Servicing
Your generator will typically show signs when it’s due for maintenance:
- Difficulty starting or staying on
- Unusual noise or vibration
- Decreased power output
- Check engine or maintenance lights
- Visible oil or fuel leaks
If you experience any of the above—or haven’t run your generator in several months—schedule a professional inspection immediately.
Professional Generator Maintenance Plans
For peace of mind, many manufacturers and service providers offer annual generator maintenance plans that include:
- Full inspection and testing
- Oil and filter changes
- Transfer switch service
- Fuel system checks
- Priority emergency response
Costs range from $200–$500 per year depending on your generator’s size and fuel type. These plans often include warranty support and extend the life of your investment.
FAQs About Generator Maintenance
Q: Can I service my generator myself?
Yes—for portable generators, basic tasks like oil changes and air filter replacements can be done DIY. However, standby generators should be serviced by a professional to ensure safety, performance, and code compliance.
Q: How often should I change the oil in my generator?
Every 50–100 hours of operation or annually for portable units. Every 100–200 hours or annually for standby systems. Always follow your manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: Do generators need maintenance if they aren’t used?
Yes! Even unused generators need regular oil changes, battery checks, and test runs. Letting one sit idle can cause fuel degradation, battery drain, or startup failure.
Q: How long does generator maintenance take?
Most routine service visits take 1–2 hours for portable generators and 2–4 hours for standby units, depending on the technician and service type.
Q: Does regular maintenance affect the warranty?
Absolutely. Neglecting scheduled maintenance can void your generator’s warranty. Keep detailed records and receipts of all maintenance and service work.
Conclusion: Keep Your Generator Ready with Routine Maintenance
Whether you’re preparing for winter storms, hurricane season, or grid instability, your generator is only as reliable as the care you give it. Regular maintenance—done at the right intervals—ensures your generator is always ready to protect your home when the lights go out.
From monthly inspections to annual oil changes and professional servicing, staying on top of maintenance keeps your generator running safely, efficiently, and for years to come.
Need Help Choosing the Right Generator or Maintenance Plan?
Start with our expert guide: What Size Generator Do I Need for My Home? to explore generator types, fuel options, and professional installation tips tailored to your home’s needs.