How often should I run my generator if I never lose power?

Monthly, even without an outage — a generator that only runs once a year (or less) is far more likely to have starting problems exactly when you finally need it, since fuel degrades and seals dry out during long idle periods.

Do standby generators need less maintenance than portable ones since they self-test?

The weekly self-test catches some issues but doesn't replace annual professional service — oil, filters and general engine wear still need scheduled attention regardless of the self-test running successfully.

Generator Maintenance Checklist: Monthly and Annual Tasks

The maintenance schedule that keeps a generator ready to start on the first pull when you actually need it — monthly, seasonal and annual tasks.

A generator that hasn't been maintained tends to fail exactly when it's needed most — stale fuel gumming up a carburetor, a dead starter battery, or a fouled spark plug, all discovered mid-storm rather than during a routine check. A short, regular maintenance schedule prevents nearly all of it.

Monthly tasks

Start the generator and let it run under a small load for 15-20 minutes — this keeps seals lubricated and reveals starting problems while you still have time to fix them
Check the oil level (portable units) and top off if needed
Visually inspect fuel lines, the fuel cap, and the exterior for leaks, cracks or corrosion
Test any battery-powered electric start for charge

Seasonal / quarterly tasks

Add fuel stabilizer to stored gasoline, or rotate stored fuel if it's been sitting more than 1-3 months, depending on the stabilizer used
Check the air filter for dust or debris buildup and clean or replace as needed
Inspect the exhaust for blockages or corrosion
For standby units: confirm the automatic self-test cycle (most standby generators run a brief weekly self-test) is completing without error codes

Annual tasks

Change the oil and oil filter (portable and standby units both)
Replace the spark plug on gas-powered portable units
Replace the air filter rather than just cleaning it
Have a standby generator professionally serviced — most manufacturers recommend annual professional service to maintain the warranty
Test the transfer switch or interlock kit through a full manual cycle to confirm it's switching correctly — see our transfer switch guide

Storing fuel safely between uses

Gasoline degrades within 1-3 months without a stabilizer added, and degraded fuel is one of the most common reasons a generator refuses to start when needed. Add stabilizer at fill-up if the generator won't run again soon, and consider running the tank low before long storage periods rather than leaving it full and untreated. Always run a generator outdoors and well clear of the house — see our carbon monoxide safety guide for exact placement guidance.

Generator Maintenance Checklist: Monthly and Annual Tasks

Monthly tasks

Seasonal / quarterly tasks

Annual tasks

Storing fuel safely between uses

Frequently asked questions

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