Portable generator charging guidelines
Battery charging guidelines vary by generator type and series. Below is a general guideline for the charging requirements of the different types of portable generators.
Environment
This article applies to all portable generators. Always refer to your owner's manual for precise information regarding battery charging requirements. See Where can I download a user manual for my Generac portable generator?
Charging Methods
Batteries may need to be charged before first use. The battery wall charger adapter supplied with the unit can accomplish this.
- Excluding the GP15000E, GP17500E, GP15500EFI, and the GP18000EFI
Running the unit will only charge the battery on some models.
- iQ3500
- All EFI units (XD5000E, XT8000EFI, XT8500EFI GP155000EFI, and the GP18000EFI)
- GP15000E& GP 17500E will ONLY charge when a 4- 5kW load is applied.
Charging Frequency and Duration
- Charge the battery monthly for 24-48 hours using the battery wall charger adapter supplied. Do not exceed 48 hours to prevent battery damage.
- The XT-EFI units should be charged every 3 months for a minimum of 12 hours, but they may remain on the charger indefinitely without overcharging.
Important Reminders
- Battery charging guidelines can be found in the owner's manual.
- Electric start units smaller than 10kW are equipped with a recoil starter, which may be used if the battery is dead.
- 10kW and larger units will be electric start only.
- Units featuring EFI require 10 VDC to run the EFI system, even if they are using the recoil to start.
- We do not offer kits to convert recoil-start units to electric start; any modification or alteration to the unit can compromise the warranty.
- If using an after-market battery charger or tender, the battery should be disconnected from the generator.
Checking battery and cables
Battery power cranks the engine. A low battery charge may prevent the engine from cranking.
- Check for loose connections or corrosion if the charger is not charging the battery.
Battery Charger Fuse (if applicable)
- The charging port is protected by a 3.0 Amp replaceable in-line fuse. If the charger is not charging the battery, check the fuse.
See also
