360-499-6604 Generators can be lifesavers for when your power goes out during storms or severe weather. They provide reliable backup power to keep your lights on, your refrigerator running, and your HVAC system running. Generators protect your family by preventing food spoilage and unsafe temperatures and enabling you to run critical medical devices.
Is your generator turning off even when it has gas in the tank? This could signal that there’s a deeper issue going on. Generators shouldn’t shut off randomly but should provide reliable backup power.
This generator troubleshooting guide will share some common generator problems and how to fix them. We understand that you want to be able to rely on your generator when you need it. Follow these generator troubleshooting tips to get your system back up and running.
Low Oil or Oil Pressure
Most generators have a low-oil shutdown sensor to protect the engine from damage. If the oil is too low or pressure drops, the generator will automatically turn itself off as a safety measure. Check that the oil is filled to the manufacturer’s recommended line. Also, look for signs of oil leaks.
You may also have a faulty oil pressure sensor or oil pump. Check for old, dirty, or degraded oil and for clogged or overdue oil filters. Change the filter if needed and reset the unit. If shutdowns continue to happen, your generator may need a professional inspection.
Exposure to Harsh Weather
Rain, snow, high humidity, and flooding can all impact generator performance and electrical components. Weather exposure can cause a few common problems, including corroded electrical connections, moisture in control panels or wiring, short circuiting or ground faults, and ventilation blockages.
Make sure your generator has proper ventilation, weather protection, and clearance. Only use approved generator covers and never operate your unit in standing water.
Battery or Charging Issues
Generators rely on a battery to start and stay running, even those that run on gas or propane. A weak or failing battery can lead to intermittent shutdowns. If your generator starts then shuts off, it could be due to battery or charging issues.
Clicking or delayed startups also signal battery issues. If there’s visible corrosion on the battery terminals, that’s a huge red flag. Lastly, if you see error codes related to voltage, there’s likely a battery issue occurring.
It’s best to check your battery’s age and charge level, whether there are corroded or loose terminals, for damaged wiring connections, and for a faulty battery charger or alternator. Clean your battery terminals, test the battery, or replace the battery if it’s old or failing. If this doesn’t solve the issue, contact a professional generator technician.
System Overload
Generators can only handle a certain load. If you are running too many appliances or power surges exceed the limit, your generator will automatically shut off to prevent damage.
Common reasons for overload include running too many appliances at once, running high demand equipment (HVAC, well pumps, etc.) simultaneously, power surges during startup, or improper load balancing.
Reduce how many appliances you have running at once and prioritize essential loads. If overload happens frequently, your generator may be undersized for your home’s power demands. An upgrade can prevent future shutdowns and provide the power you need during outages.
Schedule Home Generator Services
We hope this generator troubleshooting guide helped solve your issues, but if it didn’t and you’re still unsure what’s causing problems, contact an experienced electrician like those at G & G Heating. Our electrical professionals are fully licensed, bonded, and experienced in generator maintenance.
If you need home generator services or are interested in installing a generator, give us a call at 360-347-9841 or schedule an appointment online.
