Best Generator Maintenance Tips for Home and Business Owners

During power outages, home and business owners with backup generators stay comfortable and connected, while those without this essential equipment wish they had invested in one. But generators need regular care, just like an HVAC unit or a car.

At Premier Generators of Texas, we tell clients that backup generators are not lock-and-leave items, no matter what type they have. We’re a proud generator supplier near Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, and our Generac® service technicians are happy to share our top generator maintenance tips.

Tip 1: Conduct Monthly Visual Inspections

Inspect your generator's exterior once a month for damage, corrosion, or debris buildup, looking for loose bolts, cracked housings, or damaged electrical connections.

Be sure to clear away leaves, grass clippings, and other materials that might block airflow, and keep the exhaust system free from obstructions like bird nests or accumulated debris.

Tip 2: Complete Regular Oil Changes

Change the oil according to the manufacturer’s specifications, about every 100 to 200 hours of operation or annually. Only use the recommended oil type and viscosity for your model.

You should also check the oil level monthly with the provided dipstick and add oil as needed to maintain proper levels. If the oil is dark or dirty, change it immediately because neglecting it can lead to costly repairs.

Tip 3: Replace Air Filters

Replace the generator’s air filters every 200 hours or once a year, whichever comes first. Dirty filters reduce engine performance and consume excess fuel.

To do this, carefully remove the filter housing to inspect the element for dirt, debris, or damage. Then, clean reusable filters with compressed air. Replace disposable ones with genuine manufacturer parts.

Tip 4: Maintain the Fuel System

Test your generator monthly by running it for 15 to 30 minutes under load to keep the fuel fresh and prevent carburetor challenges. If you haven’t used the generator for a long time, add fuel stabilizer to gasoline units and check tank levels and connections regularly for propane units.

Also, examine the test fuel quality while changing those filters based on usage patterns for diesel generators.

Tip 5: Provide Battery Care

Inspect the generator’s battery terminals monthly for corrosion. Clean them with a wire brush if necessary, and check the electrolyte levels in serviceable batteries. You can add distilled water if needed.

Remember to test the battery voltage and replace weak batteries before they fail. Our team also suggests coating the terminals with petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion buildup.

Premier Generators of Texas only sells the best: Generac® backup generators. After we install them, we test the system and make sure it meets all safety standards.



Our remote technical support and monitoring keep these products in optimal condition, and our Generac® service technicians also provide ongoing maintenance after installations.

Taking care of your generator pays off in the long run, extending a backup generator’s lifespan and protecting your investment. And when the power goes out, you'll feel confident knowing your well-maintained generator will start up and work as expected.

Regular care also prevents small problems from turning into expensive disasters, which could result in expensive repairs or the need to replace the entire system.

Staying on top of maintenance also decreases fuel costs during extended outages. When your generator has clean air filters and fresh oil, it runs better and burns less fuel per hour. That efficiency really matters when you're dealing with power outages that drag on for days.

Keeping up with regular maintenance protects your warranty coverage by showing you're a responsible owner. Manufacturers want to see those maintenance records when you file warranty claims, so your service history becomes valuable documentation.

Addressing problems early saves you money because simple fixes are always less involved than major repairs. Our Generac® service technicians know what to look for during inspections, including:



• Worn parts.
• Loose connections.
• Potential issues that could escalate at the worst possible moment.

When you partner with Premier Generators of Texas for service and maintenance, nothing is left to chance. We know these generators inside and out, helping home and business owners keep things running without hassles often associated with DIY.

Premier Generators of Texas doesn’t use subcontractors. Our factory-trained, certified team members complete all of the work. We also understand how unpredictable Texas weather can be, and provide personalized service, Generac® products, and annual maintenance visits.  

Contact us online or call (214) 945-2525 to get started today! Premier Generators of Texas proudly serves Dallas, Fort Worth, Colin County, McKinney, Plano, Tarrant County, and Denton County, TX.