Portable Generators

Provides general troubleshooting for Generac portable generators that start and run but do not supply power to connected appliances or tools. It walks customers through checking loads, breakers, GFCI receptacles, cords, and model-specific resets before determining whether additional service is required.

Explains how to troubleshoot fuel leaking from a portable generator carburetor, including a loose drain screw or stuck float needle. It also explains how to check for continued leaks and prevent future carburetor problems, helping customers troubleshoot safely and maintain reliable generator operation.

This article explains how to add engine oil to most Generac portable generators, check the oil level with the dipstick, and find the correct oil capacity for a specific model. Procedures can vary by model, owners and anyone whose generator differs from the examples should follow the owner’s manual for exact oil-fill and dipstick...

Learn how the choke works on Generac portable generators, including manual choke controls and PowerDial positions. This article explains how to start cold and warm engines, when to move the choke to RUN, and why a generator may start with the choke on but shut down in RUN. It also covers flooding, stuck choke controls, dirty carburetors,...

This article explains what the colored dot markings on some Generac portable generator extension cords mean. It helps customers understand how to balance connected electrical loads and notes that dot colors may vary by cord.

CO-Sense™ technology offers robust protection against hazardous levels of carbon monoxide that are present in engine exhaust. The technology employs advanced sensor technology that detects elevated CO levels quicker than standard household detectors. If high CO levels are detected, the generator engine is automatically shut off, and the...

Learn how to tell if your Generac portable generator has a bonded neutral or floating neutral by checking the owner’s manual. This article explains what the neutral, hot, and ground wires do, how a bonded neutral connects neutral to the frame, and why a floating neutral can make a GFCI tester show “open ground.” It also covers grounding...

No. Allow at least five (5) feet of clearance on all sides of the generator when operating to prevent overheating and fire. 

This article serves a portable generator battery charging hub. It provides general portable charging guidelines for the different types of charging functions for portable generators. It includes when and how various models charge. Whether they charge while running, how long to charge for, and if a battery is included, plus charging...

Explains how Generac home standby generators regulate voltage and what an automatic voltage regulator (AVR) does. Covers why most 2010 and newer HSB models regulate voltage through the controller instead of a replaceable AVR module, with PowerPact as the primary exception, helping ensure stable generator operation.