Read the manual thoroughly and understand all of the instructions, cautions, and warnings before using this equipment. If any section of the manual is not understood, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact Generac Customer Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or www.generac.com with any questions or concerns.
Generac cold weather accessories
Environment
This article applies to the Generac Cold Weather Accessories. Cold weather accessories are designed for specific air-cooled and liquid-cool home standby generators.
Overview
Generac cold weather accessories are specially designed solutions to enhance the reliability and performance of generators in cold climates and help reduce the impact of cold weather on critical components.
Contents:
Cold weather thermostatically controlled accessories
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- Battery pad warmer: Helps reduce freezing risk and supports reliable battery performance.
- Oil filter warmer: Helps maintain oil flow by reducing thickening in cold conditions.
Extreme cold weather thermostatically controlled accessories
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- Breather warmer: Helps reduce the risk of ice blockages in the venting system.
Note: All accessories are available individually or as a kit package.
Cold weather thermostatically controlled accessories
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- Battery pad warmer: Helps reduce freezing risk and supports reliable battery performance.
Extreme cold weather thermostatically controlled accessories
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- Block heater: Warms the engine coolant and oil to support reliable engine performance.
- Cold weather accessories suit regions where temperatures frequently drop below 0°F (-17°C).
- Extreme cold weather accessories are suitable for regions where temperatures frequently drop below 0°F (-17°C) and experience heavy icing.
- If it's unclear whether your region frequently experiences temperatures below 0°F (-17°C) or heavy icing, it's best to consult your local Generac Independent Authorized Service Dealer (IASD). Weather patterns can vary significantly from year to year, and microclimates may cause localized differences even within the same general area.
- Local Generac IASDs are experts with extensive experience in your region. They understand its unique weather challenges and have a history of working with customers to determine the most appropriate solutions. Contacting a local Generac IASD is the best way to get tailored recommendations for your specific needs.
- You can find a Generac IASD near you using our Dealer Locator tool.
- We strongly recommend installation by a Generac IASD. Improper installation can cause the generator to malfunction or sustain damage; however, anyone with the required skills can install cold weather accessories.
Cold weather accessories help reduce freezing risk and support reliable battery performance.
- Cold weather impedes engine starting due to the thickening of engine oil, resulting in increased engine friction.
- Cold temperatures significantly impair battery performance as chemical reactions within the battery slow down.
- In freezing conditions, a battery can lose 30-60% of its power, demanding extra energy to start the engine.
Battery pad warmer
Purpose: The battery pad warmer helps to maintain a more optimal temperature for the battery to support a more reliable starting temperature in freezing conditions.
Why it's helpful:
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- Batteries may lose efficiency or freeze in extreme cold, potentially reducing the power output or causing starting issues.
- The battery pad warmer adds warmth to help reduce the likelihood of freezing and supports reliable startups, which may extend battery usability in extreme cold weather.
Oil filter warmer
Purpose: Helps keep engine oil flowing by reducing the chance of it thickening around the oil filter in cold temperatures/
Why it's helpful:
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- In freezing conditions, engine oil can become more viscous, making it harder to circulate effectively.
- A warm oil filter can support smoother oil flow, helping reduce engine strain and aiding overall performance in extreme cold weather.
Breather warmer
Purpose: It helps prevent ice from forming in the breather system and maintains proper airflow and venting.
Why it's helpful:
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- Moisture in the air can freeze inside the brother system in sub-zero temperatures, which may cause blockages and performance issues.
- The breather warmer is designed to add heat that may reduce the chance of ice buildup, helping to maintain airflow and reduce interruption in operation during extreme cold.
Engine Block Heater
Purpose: An engine block heater warms the engine coolant and oil, making it easier to start your generator in cold weather.
Why it helps:
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- Maintaining a warmer engine temperature reduces strain on the engine during startup and helps with reliable operation during cold weather.
Note: Engine block heaters are only available for liquid-cooled units.
- Each generator model has specific accessory parts available, as outlined in the unit's specifications sheet.
- Users should consult their product documentation for compatible kits or contact their local Generac Independent Authorized Service Dealer (ISAD).
General compatibility Guidelines:
Battery pad warmers
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- Compatible with units manufactured after 2008.
- Not necessary for AGM-style batteries.
- Recommended for regions regularly experiencing temperatures below 0 F.
Oil filter warmers:
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- Compatible with units manufactured after 2008.
- Recommended for regions regularly experiencing temperatures below 0 F.
Breather warmers:
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- Only suitable for units manufactured after 2013.
- Intended for extremely cold climates where heavy icing occurs.
Engine block heater
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- Engine block heaters are specifically designed for individual engine models. The block heater must match your engine specifications. Contact your local Generac IASD for engine specifications and compatibility.
Controller compatibility
- Connections may vary slightly depending on the unit's age. For units that utilize non-Nexus or non-Evolution control panels, contact a local Generac IASD or Generac Customer Support at 888-436-3722 for further information on compatibility.
- Battery warmers are not recommended for use with AGM-style batteries. AGM batteries are designed to perform well in cold weather without external heating. Using a battery warmer can cause overheating, disrupt the electrolyte balance, and potentially damage the battery.
Additional resources
