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. 

 

OVERLOAD REMOVE LOAD: Error Codes 2100-2103

 

Environment

This article applies to codes 2100-2103, OVERLOAD REMOVE LOAD, for Generac air-cooled home standby generators.

Note: The term "error code" is used interchangeably with 'alarm code,' 'fault code,' 'fault alarm' and similar terminology. Error code applies to all such terminology. 

 

Overview

• Error codes: 2100-2103
• Alarm: OVERLOAD REMOVE LOAD
• Issue: The generator is overloaded, meaning there is more demand than its capacity allows.
• Cause: Potential causes for the overload include large new loads added to the system since installation, issues with load management devices, multiple large loads powering on simultaneously, or the unit being undersized for the current demand. 

 

General troubleshooting

 

1. Identify non-essential loads.

Understand the setup: The generator does not directly connect to individual loads; it supplies power to the home's electrical system.

 

Identify the panel: 

• If the unit backs up only part of the home, focus on the priority panel to identify connected loads.
• If the unit backs up the entire home, review all loads connected to the home's electrical system. 

Review loads:

• Inspect appliances, devices, or equipment connected to the relevant panel (priority or whole-home) for non-essential loads. 
• Specifically, check for any high-demand non-essential loads, such as hot tubs or pool heaters, that may contribute to the overload. 

 

2. Remove non-essential loads.

• Disconnect or deactivate non-essential loads.
  • This can be done by unplugging non-essential loads or switching off non-essential breakers at your main electrical panel (whole-home backup) or priority panel (partial-home backup). 
• Ensure that the remaining load is within the unit's recommended operating capacity. 

 

3. Verify load management device functionality.

• Check any Generac Load Managers for functionality and correct configuration for lockouts. 

 

4. Clear the alarm.

• Access the unit's control panel and clear the alarm. Follow on-screen instructions: 
  • How Do I Clear an Error or Alarm Code On My Home Standby Generator?

 

5. Restart the unit.

• Note: Never start the generator while under load.
• For more information on returning the generator to load during an outage, see How Do I Shut Down My Generator When It’s Powering My House (During an Outage)?

 

Preventative measures 

To help avoid future overload alarms:

• Regularly assess load capacity and usage.
• If utilizing any load management devices, verify proper functionality and lockout configurations.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections according to the maintenance schedule.
  
• Automatic load-shedding tools can be installed to prevent this from happening in the future. See:
  • What is a Generac Load Manager (previously known as a Smart Management Module (SMM))?
  • What Is an Integrated Smart Air Conditioning Module (SACM)?

 

Additional resources 

• Where Can I Find the Maintenance Schedule for My Generac Home Standby Generator?
• Setting the lockout switch on Generac Load Manager
• Where can I find a list of error codes for my generator?