When the power goes out, your standby generator is supposed to save the day. But what if it doesn’t? Ask any generator technician, and they’ll tell you plenty of stories about people who assumed their generator was good to go—until they needed it most. Some problems are quick fixes, while others require a professional’s touch. Here are five common generator issues and how to avoid them.

Failure to Start

The whole point of a generator is to kick in when the power goes out. If yours hesitates—or worse, does nothing—you could be dealing with a dead battery, old fuel, or a clogged filter. A routine check-up ensures everything is charged, clean, and ready for action.

Low or No Power Output

Your generator is running, but your lights are flickering or appliances aren’t working properly. This could maean a faulty voltage regulator, dirty connections, or overloaded circuits. Routine maintenance helps keep power delivery smooth and reliable.

Frequent Shutdowns

Does your generator start up but then shut down unexpectedly? Overheating, low oil levels, or sensor malfunctions could be to blame. Regular servicing keeps everything in check, so your generator doesn’t leave you stranded mid-storm.

Strange Noises

Generators make noise, but if you start hearing knocking, rattling, or high-pitched whining, it’s a sign something’s off—loose belts, worn bearings, or engine trouble could be the culprit. Catching these issues early prevents costly breakdowns.

Fuel Issues

If your generator runs on gasoline, propane, or diesel, stale fuel can cause clogged injectors and poor performance. Regular fuel checks and system flushes keep it running smoothly when you need it most.

The Best Way to Avoid Generator Problems? Maintenance!

A routine generator tune-up ensures your backup power is ready when you need it. Don’t wait for the next outage to find out if yours is up to the task.