When Should I Service or Replace the Oil in My Portable Generator?
With summer heat arriving, now is an ideal time to ensure your portable generator is ready to keep the power on. Proper maintenance like changing the oil is key for reliable performance when you need it most.
1. Check your owner's manual - Recommended service intervals vary across generator models and brands. Consult your manual to see the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific unit.
2. Change oil annually at minimum - For most portable generators, changing oil once a year is a good rule of thumb even if run time hours are low. The oil can break down over time.
3. After first 20 hours - If your generator is new, its first oil change should occur after the initial 20 hours of operation. This initial swap clears out any metal shavings or residue from manufacturing.
4. Every 100-300 hours - For frequent generator use, oil may need swapping as often as every 100-300 hours. Keep a log of your operating hours and stick to the manufacturer's runtime guidelines.
5. Use proper oil type - Using the oil type specified by the manufacturer (usually SAE 10W-30) is important for optimal performance and engine life.
Keeping up on maintenance like oil changes will extend your generator's service life for years of reliable backup power. Call now if you need any help inspecting, servicing, or replacing your generator model!
