A standby power generator for your home can provide a sense of security; but you must properly maintain it, including regularly changing the oil and filter. Generac produces a wide variety of generators, but the oil changing procedures are the same for home generators ranging from 8 to 20 kilowatts, the most common sizes. Change the oil and filter every two years or 200 hours of operation.
Step 1
Start the generator and run it until it warms up.
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Step 2
Turn off the generator and remove the oil drain hose from its spring loaded mounting clip.
Step 3
Remove the cap from the end of the oil drain hose and let the oil drain into your container. Hold the hose until all the oil has drained out.
Step 4
Replace the cap on the end of the drain hose, and return it to its mounting clip.
Step 5
Remove the oil filter by turning it counterclockwise.
Step 6
Put a light coating of oil on the gasket of your new oil filter to make a better seal.
Step 7
Screw the new filter on by hand. After the gasket makes contact, tighten it no more than a full turn. Do not use any tools.
Step 8
Fill the engine with new oil. (The amount and grade depend upon your generator size and the temperature in which it operates.)
Step 9
Start the generator and let it run for one minute. Turn it off and check for leaks.
Step 10
Check the oil level with the dipstick and add more if necessary, but do not overfill.
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