Fields

Title	Home Standby Generator Engine Cranks But Will Not Start, or Starts Hard and Runs Rough

URL Name	Home-Standby-Generator-Engine-Cranks-but-Will-Not-Start-or-Starts-Hard-and-Runs-Rough

Content

Public Content

Engine Cranks But Will Not Start Or Runs Rough

This article covers the most common issues but is not exhaustive. If these steps do not identify or resolve the issue, generator owners should reach out to a local authorized service dealer. See the How Can I Find a Generac Service Dealer in My Area? article for more information.

1. What does the control panel say?

Check for E-codes/alarms. See the How Do I Clear an Error or Alarm Code On My Home Standby Generator? article for more information.

2. Was the unit recently installed? If so, verify proper installation.

Ensure fuel is turned on. A shutoff valve should be within 6ft of the unit.
Verify fuel lines have been bled. Air pockets in the line will prevent the unit from starting, this is especially common if LP was recently refilled.
Check for an empty or low LP tank.
Verify proper fuel conversion if running on LP.

3. Is this an existing install? When was maintenance last completed?

If running on LP check for an empty or low tank.
Verify appropriate maintenance is complete.
Check the air filter. See the How Do I Check and Change the Air Filter On My Home Standby Generator? article for more information.
Check spark plugs. See the How Do I Service the Spark Plugs in a Generac Air-Cooled Home Standby Generator? for more information.
Check and change the oil and filter if necessary. See the How Do I Change the Oil and Oil Filter in a Generac Air-Cooled Home Standby Generator? article for more information.
Ensure valve adjustments have been done at proper intervals. Valve adjustment procedures can be found in the generator's user manual. See the How Do I Find a Copy of My Home Standby Generator Owner's Manual and Spec Sheets? for more information.

To schedule an inspection or service call, contact your local Generac authorized service dealer. See the Where Can I Find a Generac Dealer in the U.S. Or Canada? article for more information.

Home Standby Generator Engine Cranks But Will Not Start, or Starts Hard and Runs Rough