Is Your Standby Generator Ready for Storm Season?
A maintenance checklist for Generac standby generator owners in Northeast Ohio.
A standby generator is only as reliable as its maintenance history. A generator that has not been properly serviced may fail to start when you need it most — or may start and then shut down due to a fault condition. This checklist covers the key items that should be inspected and serviced regularly to keep your Generac generator ready for the next outage.
Annual Service Items
- ▸Engine oil and oil filter. Change annually or after every 200 hours of operation. Use the oil type specified in your generator's owner manual.
- ▸Air filter. Inspect and replace if dirty or damaged. A clogged air filter reduces engine performance and can cause fault codes.
- ▸Spark plugs. Inspect for fouling, corrosion, or wear. Replace as recommended by the manufacturer — typically every two years or 200 hours.
- ▸Battery. Test the battery voltage and load capacity. Generator batteries typically last three to five years. A weak battery is one of the most common causes of generator failure to start.
- ▸Coolant level (liquid-cooled units). Check the coolant reservoir and inspect hoses for cracks or leaks.
- ▸Transfer switch operation. Confirm the transfer switch engages and disengages cleanly during a test cycle.
Exercise Cycle Verification
Generac standby generators are programmed to run a weekly exercise cycle — typically 12 minutes at a scheduled time. This cycle lubricates the engine, charges the battery, and confirms the unit is operational.
- ▸Confirm the exercise cycle is scheduled and running on time.
- ▸Listen for unusual noises during the exercise cycle — knocking, rough idle, or excessive vibration.
- ▸Check for fault codes on the generator's control panel after the exercise cycle.
Mobile Link Status Check
If your Generac generator is connected to Mobile Link WiFi monitoring, review the app regularly for:
- ▸Active fault codes or warning alerts
- ▸Exercise cycle history and run time logs
- ▸Maintenance reminders based on hours of operation
- ▸Connectivity status — confirm the generator is still connected to your WiFi network
Pre-Storm Season Inspection
Before each storm season — spring and fall in Northeast Ohio — perform a visual inspection of the generator enclosure and surrounding area:
- ▸Clear debris, leaves, and vegetation from around the unit. Maintain at least 18 inches of clearance on all sides.
- ▸Inspect the enclosure for signs of pest activity — mice and insects can damage wiring and insulation.
- ▸Check the fuel supply. Confirm your natural gas service is active or your propane tank is adequately filled.
- ▸Schedule a professional service appointment if the unit has not been serviced in the past 12 months or 200 hours.