How to Troubleshoot Portable Electric Generators

Add distilled water to the battery if you continue to experience problems.

Portable generators are used to provide remote power for tools, appliances and other electrical devices. They can provide residential, utility-style 120 volt supply, commercial 240 volt supply, or 12 volt DC supply that can be used to charge batteries. Generally, portable generators are operated by gasoline-fueled engines. Problems with portable electric generators are usually related to the engine. Other issues can be related to the power output.

Things You'll Need

• Replacement air filter
• Oil
• Wire brush
• Distilled water

Instructions

1. Set the run switch to "Run" if the generator won't start. Check that there's fuel in the gasoline reservoir and that the spark plug wire is connected to the spark plug. Open the choke and then crank the engine.

2. Clean the air filter if you continue to have problems either starting or running the generator. Remove the air filter cover and wash the foam pre-filter in soapy water. Allow it to dry and drop a little oil on it. Squeeze the filter to distribute the oil and replace. Replace the paper air filter with a new one.

3. Reset the circuit breaker for the receptacle that you are using if the engine is running but there's no power being transmitted to your tool. Press the button adjacent to the receptacle. Replace the extension cord if you continue to have problems. The labeling on the cord should match the equipment rating. Be aware that the longer the cord, the more likely you are to experience voltage drops and overheating.

4. Clean the battery posts by scraping them with a wire brush if batteries won't charge using the 12 volt DC power receptacle. Add distilled water to the battery if you continue to experience problems. A labeled 12 volt receptacle won't charge 6 volt batteries.

References

• Craftsman: 4200 Watt AC Generator Owner's Manual