Generator component inspection checklist

Environment

This checklist applies to both portable generators and home standby generators that have been sitting without operation for an extended period of time.

Portable generator maintenance

• Carburetor – Clean as needed; refer to your generator’s product lookup page.
• Fuel – Replace with fresh fuel. General maintenance guidance: How Do I Maintain My Generac Portable Generator?
• Oil – Change after the initial 20–30 hours of operation, and every 100 hours thereafter: How Often Should the Oil Be Changed in a Generac Portable Generator
• Spark Plug – Inspect and service as part of routine maintenance. See: How Do I Service the Spark Plugs in a Generac Air-Cooled Home Standby Generator? and How do I inspect and service my portable generator's spark plug?

Note: Never start or run a generator in an enclosed space. Only operate in a well‑ventilated outdoor area.

Home standby generator maintenance

• Routine Maintenance Schedule – Includes oil changes, spark plug replacement, air filter checks, and valve adjustments: How Do I Maintain My Generator?
• Break‑In Maintenance – If applicable, perform valve clearance adjustment and oil change after first 25 hours: How Do I Perform the Break‑In Maintenance for a Home Standby Generator
• Schedule A/B Maintenance – Perform every 2 years or 200 hours (Schedule A), and every 4 years or 400 hours (Schedule B): What is Schedule A Maintenance? | What is Schedule B Maintenance?
• Extended Operation – Guidelines for continuous operation, including required rest periods: Continuous‑Use Maintenance for Home Standby Generators
• Post‑Outage Maintenance – Actions to take following extended power outage: What Steps Do I Need to Take to Maintain My Home Standby Generator After an Extended Outage

See also

• How Do I Maintain My Generator?
• How Do I Maintain My Generac Portable Generator?
• What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Performing Maintenance on My Generator