Your generator is an investment in safety and comfort, especially in an emergency. When it comes to an important appliance like a generator, you want to do everything you can to keep it running smoothly. Even some of the most well-maintained machines may require repairs occasionally, and having the knowledge and confidence to fix your own generator can protect the peace of mind that backup power can bring.

Do You Need to Repair Your Generator?

A generator provides electricity when you need it most — unless something has gone wrong with your machine. Whether you simply notice less energy productivity, hear a weird noise, or you find you need to buy a few generator replacement parts to keep things running, it is best to address problems swiftly to prevent further damage.

But how do you know you need to repair your generator in the first place? Knowing how your generator typically runs will help you recognize when things are not running smoothly. With this knowledge and regular generator maintenance, you can spot problems swiftly and confidently keep your generator’s power flowing.

What to Check When Your Generator Doesn’t Work 

There is nothing worse than thinking you have backup power and then discovering your generator is not working. Even if it is running but you notice a difference from its standard output, it is essential to repair your generator as soon as possible. There are several generator problems you might encounter that trigger the need for a repair, including: 

• Coolant leaks
• Insufficient oil levels
• Low fuel levels
• Uncharged or old battery

A generator battery is essential for your generator’s start-up function, so this is a good place to start if your machine is not working from the get-go. Batteries are often the culprit of a non-functioning generator and are fortunately easy generator replacement parts to buy and install. 

Understanding Generator Error Codes 

Often, you won’t have to speculate about what is wrong with your generator. By understanding where to find your generator error codes and how to interpret them, you take the guesswork out of diagnosing your generator repair.

Generator error codes are alphanumeric or numeric symbols displayed on the control panel that indicate a specific issue with your machine. These symbols correlate to a list in your user manual that shows each code’s meaning. When your generator is not working correctly, your first step should be to look at the control panel and user manual to quickly diagnose the problem and acquire the right generator replacement parts to prevent further damage. 

Repairing Your Generator 

Once you have determined that it is time to repair your generator, ensure you are prepared for the task at hand. First, follow all safety protocols by turning your generator completely off and disconnecting it from any electrical sources before starting any work. Then, gather any generator replacement parts you might need for the job.

You want to do everything you can to be knowledgeable about the work you are about to do so that you do not hurt yourself or cause additional issues with your equipment. Online repair guides can be helpful when starting a repair, and having the best replacement parts for your generator is essential to a long-lasting fix.

Reading Your Generator Diagnostic Manual

Generator repair should not be a mystery or guessing game. Your generator’s diagnostic manual is a vital resource when repairing your generator. This document has a lot of information, including: 

• Generator fundamentals
• Major generator components
• Troubleshooting flow chart
• Diagnostic tests
• Specific generator replacement parts

By studying your generator’s manual, you can create a step-by-step process to diagnose and fix your machine. Generator diagnostic manuals give you the confidence and instruction you need to repair your equipment on your own whenever possible.

Using OEM Generator Replacement Parts 

When making a generator repair, don’t settle for subpar elements that could do more harm than good. To find the right generator parts, consult your owner’s manual and depend on original equipment manufacturer — known as OEM — generator replacement parts to get your equipment up and running correctly.

OEM parts are made for the initial production of your machine. This makes them better than aftermarket pieces that might not fit or operate properly. By using genuine Generac OEM generator replacement parts, you can be confident your repair will be effective and long-lasting.

If you are unsure what generator replacement parts to purchase, find your generator’s model number and use a parts reference page for accurate information. 

When To Call in a Professional

A repair can be straightforward, especially if you are familiar with your generator and how it works, but there are some situations where a professional is needed. If you are unsure how to do the repair, even after reading your manual and gathering the right generator replacement parts, do not proceed with your own repair.

Many of the alarm codes your generator may produce can only be cleared by a certified technician, so in those cases, it is best to call a dealer or trusted mechanic to keep yourself and your equipment safe. 

How to Prevent Generator Repairs

Ultimately, you want to avoid costly generator repairs if at all possible. You can prevent major issues by performing regular maintenance and watching for signs of damage so you can swiftly correct any problems. Many generators have service schedules programmed into the control board that will alert you when it is time to conduct basic upkeep tasks such as replacing air filters, changing the oil, and checking the spark plugs.

Curated Generac maintenance kits take any guesswork out of regular upkeep. By choosing an appropriate kit, you get the correct supplies and instructions to take care of your equipment. By utilizing these kits on a regular basis, you can prevent major damage and catch small issues before they get unmanageable.

Fixing your generator is a task you can confidently tackle with the right knowledge and tools. Keep your lights on and your power flowing by studying your user manual, getting OEM generator replacement parts, and following reliable instructions.