7 Tips to Help Avoid Killing Your Generator.

[@BackyardMaine]

Sign up today at hometitlelock.com/backyardmaine and use code backyardmaine for 30 days of protection for FREE and a comprehensive title history report! #hometitlelock #triplelockprotection #titletheft #titlefraud #deedfraud #mortgagefraud #housestealing #preventhousestealing

[@clayreynolds5502]

I use avgas in all my small motors and chain saw seafome for gasoline additives

[@scottmiller5337]

Not sure if you would be knowledgeable in this topic bu... I live in southern Arizona where temps have been over 110 for months at a time. Just got a generator and want to know, do you feel it's safe to store it fueled and ready to go in the garage. My concern is the high heat and a fuel filled generator in the garage. Thanks for your time.

[@clayreynolds5502]

@scottmiller5337 hay Scott if you use avgas you can but regular has ethanol and its no good for carbs or lines

[@misterhat5823]

Thumbs down for the crappy salespitch in the middle.

[@BackyardMaine]

@@misterhat5823 The sales pitch supports the channel so I can keep making great content for my audience. If it's to painful for you to watch find another channel. lol

[@robertcheslock9636]

Very thorough video. Following through this, here is my comments: 1. I use only ethanol free fuel. 2. I built a shed over my generator that is kept outside. 3. Run it for ten to fifteen minutes every month with a load. 4. I quit using a stabilizer 4 years ago and keep the tank full. 5. I change the oil every fall. 6. Clean air filter when changing the oil, replace it when needed. 7. I brush the spark arrestor screen and check the spark plug when changing the oil. I have two generators, both 10 plus years old, one given to me because it failed to start (Generac). After checking the only thing it needed was a new spark plug. Both now start and run on the first pull. Maintain these machines and you will get many years of service in return.

[@MrPLC999]

I love my little Honda EU2200i. It's quite rare that an outage is long enough that I have to power up the refrigerators, so no need for an expensive 2-phase machine. Plus the Honda is very quiet. When the power comes back on, I turn the gen upside down to drain as much fuel out of the tank as possible. Then I run it at low speed until it quits which can take 10 minutes. I store it with a cover as the garage can get quite dusty.

[@jerrydemas2020]

John, Here is a very important tip. Remove the load before shutting down the generator. Otherwise the current might stress the electronics of the regulator.

[@Robnord1]

AGREED. Loaded shutdowns = risking damage to electronics. The one missing element in this otherwise excellent video.

[@BackyardMaine]

The video I link at the end of this one goes into that and six other important tips.

[@ironmartysharpe8293]

You are absolutely correct on that Never start up or shut down a generator under load because of the high risk of damaging the electronic voltage regulator , Electronic governor and other components Also can damage the equipment plugged into the generator What I do is after taking the load off the generator , I let it run at no load for 5 minutes to properly cool the electric end of the generator

[@elviraraff6809]

@Robnord1 Unplug everything to allow a cool down of the gen set. Then, a few minutes later, turn off the fuel to allow it to run dry. Lastly, I remove the bowl and wipe it dry. After Milton, I have now replaced the carb on my Predator 9000 to a tri-fuel carb, so I won't need gasoline, but it remains an option. I have been picking up used propane tanks when I find them for 5 or 10 bucks each.

[@BackyardMaine]

@@ironmartysharpe8293 Of course. Check out the video in the end screen where I go into this in detail.

[@oneeyedjack4727]

In my area ethanol free fuels became available in all three grades about 15 years ago. Since then, I've always used the middle grade non ethanol fuel with stabilizer in my small engines. I've had no fuel related issues since, even though I once accidentally forgot and let one sit for a year. Good tips that you gave.

[@ebinmaine]

Excellent idea using NON Ethanol. We do the same. We don't even use any stabilizer of any brand. We've had engines set for well over a year and start right up.

[@bigredc222]

That's great, I wish there was a place around me where I could get it. I can't count the number of times I've had to rebuild the carb on my snow blower. I run it dry, but one time it was a couple years between uses and parts inside the carb. rusted. I ended up buying a second carb so I always have a spare. And that's not even counting the weed wackers, leaf blowers, and chainsaws I've spent hours working on because of crappy gas.

[@ebinmaine]

@bigredc222 there's a website YT won't let me list here but its words are "pure gas" with a " - " between them.

[@bigredc222]

@@ebinmaine Thanks

[@javabeanz8549]

I wish we had all three grades here, I can only get non-eth premium. It can be $2 per gallon or so more than just premium.

[@robertheinkel6225]

My 5,000 watt generator is going on 20 years old. I only use ethanol free fuel, with Sta-bil. After each power outage, I shut off the fuel, then run it until it quits. I change oil while it is warm. I am still on my original spark plug. When needed, just add gas and it starts on the first or second pull. I keep three five gallon cans of fuel, with a purchase date on each can. I use the same fuel for my mowers, so at most it may be six months old.

[@stephenhair5501]

One other Tip that I do pertains to when you shut your fuel valve to the Off position and let the carburetor run dry. The engine will begin starving for fuel and surging. Just before the engine dies, throw the Choke Lever on and the engine will begin normal running for a minute or so. The engine will then run that remaining gas in the carburetor completely out and then die. This will help make sure that all of the gas is out of your carburetor. I've done this with my equipment for many years and never had any problems when the next time came to fire up the generator. Thanks for sharing these valuable tips. I never thought about my spark arrestor but will be checking and cleaning mine out. I also use Non Ethanol Gas and I treat it with Ethanol Shield which will take care of any condensation that might occur in the tank.

[@BackyardMaine]

Great tip. Thanks

[@scottwhitcher265]

@stephenhair5501 I very much agree with pulling the choke on for the last bit to get more ( you still don't get all) of the gas out of the float bowl. All of these are good practices.

[@stephenhair5501]

@ This is true. 😎👍👍

[@dhansel4835]

This is why I love my 20kw Generac natural gas whole house generator. It comes on every Saturday morning and runs for 8 minutes to do a test and then shuts down and goes into standby. This month we have had the generator for 11 years.

[@jakesully5402]

Yeah, that’s a great system. Definitely a worthy investment in comfort and reliability…

[@BackyardMaine]

They are awesome.

[@janicemiller6518]

This is all very confusing so do I need a gas fitter or do I need an electrician

[@westtechguy]

A few things if I may add to your list - Be sure not to turn off the generator under load, dont think most people mention that or know about it? I use an oz or two of seafoam with 5 gallons of ethanol free gas instead of sta-bil. Then put it in the car/truck every 3-4 months to use and refill the can with fresh gas. Running propane/NG in a dual fuel model is cleaner on your oil and exhaust than gas which might extend your oil change and spark arrester maintenance intervals or incase of power outage you arent forced to turn everything off and do an emergency oil change. Keep spare parts - spark plug, air filter, etc as the stores might be closed or out of parts. In a power outage cover the freezer/fridge in blankets while not running off backup power to hold their temps longer. Put boiling water in a 2 liter bottle in the covers or sleeping bag to warm it up before bed. A tent inside full of people is easier to warm than a whole house, use heat tape on pipes to keep from freezing and you dont have to heat the whole room if no one is staying in that part. Also suggest a backup plan to your backup, two generators is better than one so you can combine the power with a parallel kit or if one stops working suddenly, electrician installed input plug and breaker lockout on the house keeps the extension cords down to a minimum and the wife much happier (on my to-do list), solar generators are wonderful backups to run the gas furnace fan, charge devices for communications, run electronics to entertain the whole family - after the teens have contributed or learned a skill to be helpful when you're not there, then recharge on the inverter generator or solar. Show your spouse how to connect and run everything, then show them again every fews months when you pull out the generator to warm up and test.

[@tomschmidt381]

Great list of tips. I realize it is controversial but I run the gas tank dry during my quarterly test runs. Ethanol gas is hydroscopic so it absorbs moisture from the air. That is much less of a problem with gas stored in sealed gas cans. Our generator has a drain plug on the carburetor bowl so every once an a while I drain any remaining gas out of the bowl, this gets rid of any trapped water. To better empty the gas tank I stick one end of the genie on a 2x4 to help slope it toward to shutoff valve. I use a 1500 watt space heater as a load during test runs and try to remember to alternate which receptacle I use each time. Our generator has electric start so I use a battery maintainer to keep it fully charged without the risk of overcharging. Perhaps it is the engineer in me but I keep a log book of testing and maintenance. I have an old school battery load tester so every once an a while test the battery. SLA batteries slowly degrade over time but I have gotten years out of the ones I use. Our generator did not come with an hour meter so I bought a cheap stick on meter that wrap the sense lead around the spark plug wire. That lets me record run time hours. Our generator runs on gas. Getting gas right before an outage can be problematic. I keep five 5-gallon gas cans in our shed and use stabilizer. Using the genie a few hours a day that should last us a week. We have occasional week long power outages here in NH due to massive winter ice storms. The cans are numbered so I rotate them and when it gets old dump it in one of our cars. I also log when each can is refilled as a reminder to not let the gas get too old. Have not had a problem storing gas for a year (the cans are sealed) but I try not to go longer then that. Bottom line as you posted you want to do everything you can to insure the generator will actually work when needed.

[@rgray3173]

My Champion generator is 9 years old and still runs flawlessly. I never run gas with Ethanol and I pull it out every month and run it for about 20 minutes. I also use a fuel stabilizer. It stays in my shop under cover. I run it dry. I bought this generator at lowe's on sale and it got me through hurricane Michael. Our power was out for 4 days and ran 24 hours a day.

[@JT-lq4yd]

Excellent tips! One more item I would also add to this list to have spare spark plugs, they are generally cheap and they don't go bad.

[@rstephe]

Excellent Video. I live in FL and have not needed to use mine for the past few years, but run mine at least twice a year and use every single one of these tips. One tip I would like to add, when possible, use and store ethanol free gas when possible. I buy 20 gallons every spring before hurricane season and put it in my vehicles in November if not used. This will lessen the possibility of gas going bad or adding too much stabilizer, which can gum up your fuel.

[@johnclyne6350]

Great tips from everyone! I'm no guru but I follow a lot of people on YT. I might be considered a prepper? I'm not. I'm a power lineman for a living & my wife has a physical disability. My wife doesn't drive. She is dependent on me. I need lots of gas on standby. When there is a storm that affects our service area. My employer has me working 17 hour days with less than 8 hours off. I barely have enough time to sleep let alone look for a gas station open? I pretreat my ethanol fuel with Star Tron engine enzyme & Marine grade fuel stabilizer. I keep my fuel for a year & I buy fresh fuel every 3 months & rotate my stock. I keep my fuel tank on my genny always full to the top. I have only had to change my oil every year. I use Mobil 1. It runs like a Swiss watch. I periodically start it to run without load & sometimes with connected load for about a half hour. I have only about 75 hours on it in 7 years. Thanks for posting.

[@BackyardMaine]

Great plan.. My father and my brother-in-law were both lineman. I have a few friends that were lineman as well. I have a lot of respect for what you do. I became an electrician and eventually moved into electrical engineering. I'm retired now but I worked for TI and we brought four 35KV feeds into the main building. They fed switch banks that supplied 22 duel fed substations. 12470v to feed the subs in an older building, 4160v for the chiller plant and the rest were 277/480v or 120/208v. Cool stuff.

[@ragtowne]

I live in North Western Montana it was -46F last year I always use full synthetic Mobil-1 and the generator starts right up even when frozen solid - I run it on a 1000 gallon propane tank (which also powers the heat in the house) so do not have to worry about stabilizing gasoline. The generator is a "tri-fuel" model and I do keep 20 gallons of 91 octane ethanol-free fuel in 5-gallon containers "just in case" which I do rotate and use Sta-bil in. Great tips.

[@TheRealMrBlackCat]

18 years ago I got a new generator as we live in a rural area with power outages. It has been outside under the eve of the house since then. It has been through several continuous runs of more than five days without ever an issue. The fuel has never been turned off. This is a not a high end generator and has has sit time as long as a year, but usually less. (5500/8250 watt Briggs brand) It has never seen ethanol gas... like a dozen other pieces of equipment we own. It is worth it, I promise.

[@rheuss1]

Non ethanol gas is a life saver for small engines. Ethanol is a scam.

[@jayg9439]

Never used EF gas in my 21 year old murry push mower. Beat to snot but its got the original carb. Had to replace fuel bulb a few times still a 2-3 pull start

[@JeffC-dj3gd]

@@rheuss1 Not to mention Ethanol has less BTUs of energy than gasoline, ergo less efficient/MPG. SCAM! (And it replaces some "bad" emissions with other "bad" emissions, with no net benefit.......except to the Ethanol producers! 🤑😉)

[@workbenchz]

Well done. I do it a bit differently. There's a drain plug on the carb bowl that's more effective than running till it stalls, which leaves a teaspoon or two of gas behind. If you aren't absolutely sure it will be used again within a month, drain the tank as well. Even treated gas, though evaporative cooling, will accumulate condensation that eventually can overwhelm the stabilizer and rust the tank.

[@4sl648]

UGreat tips. I have a plain jane 5000w generator that is 22 years old and runs well. The only thing that has caused any problems has been ethanol fuel which at one point required a new carb. During an emergency, running 10% ethanol is fine. However when i put it away I drain the tank fully and run the engine dry. Then I put just enough non ethanol in and then run it dry on the non ethanol. I check and clean the spark plug. My area of Vermont had significant flooding this and last year. My unit was out on loan multiple times with no issues.

[@oceandmike]

Wow! What a great video for all of us first time generator owners. Thank you very much from Central Florida!

[@BackyardMaine]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for watching.

[@Gruntled2001]

Ha, that’s what I use for the test load - either a space heater or a heat gun 💪🏼👍🏼

[@BackyardMaine]

Great minds think alike.. 🧐

[@JeffC-dj3gd]

Yes, even large generator load banks are mostly resistive element devices. Load banking a large 30K and over generator sets makes a LOT of heat! 🥵🤠

[@electraglide67]

All good tips! It may not be easy to find in some areas but if you can locate ethanol free gasoline in your area, it's best to use this for any gasoline engine that sits for long periods. Still a good idea to run it out of gas with fuel shut off and add sta bil or similar product.

[@DonziGT230]

When running it dry, as it starts to surge, use the choke to keep it running, that will get more gas out of the carb. As for storage, most of mine are outdoors and only get used when they're needed, and they always work.

[@akbychoice]

Big plus in Alaska, no ethanol fuels.

[@jonkilowatt4442]

I know fuel stations that have non ethanol fuel in Ohio.

[@kdodson3585]

As an Alaskan myself I store my stabilized ethanol free fuel outside and my generator tank empty and in a heated storage area. Makes it easier to start at 10 below.

[@PFunk-kt9gc]

You guys are fortunate.

[@JeffC-dj3gd]

@@PFunk-kt9gc Gas Buddy & Pure Gas are apps that map stations that sell Ethanol-free Gasoline, most likely even in your state. Good luck & God bless.

[@rarelampcollector]

Great tips. Many of these generator maintenance tips can also be applied to automobiles in a way. For example, if you own a convertible sports car in a northern state, and it's only driven a few thousand miles per year or less in the summer months and/or for special occasions, it's a good idea to at a minimum take the vehicle for a short drive and allow the engine & transmission to fully warm up at least once per month.

[@62Cristoforo]

And run the car’s AC on full for a few minutes, just to keep the seals supple and the bearings lubed.

[@billytrevathan6405]

I agree 100% on running all fuel out of the carburetor before storing the generator. I do this on all equipment that has a petcock. Even with Stabil, modern gasoline will gum up the carb.

[@americantaxpayer4551]

I buy Sunoco non ethanol for my power equipment. I run my generator spring and fall. Pull it out and drain the gas. Refill it and run it for 10-15 minutes while I'm doing something else. It doesn't take long. That way I know, (or am fairly confident), that it will start when I need it. Too many people buy a generator when they lose power. Then let it sit for 2 years until the power goes out again. Then find it won't start. Spend a little time on a Saturday twice a year. I won't encounter that during a blizzard in February....at night...with no lights.

[@patrickstevens3482]

I appreciate your video, receiving my first generator next week. Been watching videos for proper care and feeding of it, and you covered more things than any other.

[@BackyardMaine]

Awesome.. I have four or five videos covering generators and I have a couple more in the works. Good luck!

[@paulinedavis8734]

PRICELESS information, and you made simple & clear, so that almost anyone can do this. You also took the fear & mystery out of generator maintenance. THANK YOU also much ❤👍

[@BackyardMaine]

Glad it was helpful! That’s the whole point of the channel.

[@BurnardMorey]

I liked the tip about running a generator until it stops. I'll do this in future. My main generator is a 13.5 kVa electric start with no manual option, so it's important to run it regularly to keep the battery topped up. The instructions recommend running under light load for 10-15 minutes every 4 weeks. Earlier this year the generator wouldn't start for a test run. The battery was dead. I'm glad I didn't discover this on a dark, rainy winter evening when a tree has brought down power lines (a regular occurrence in this semi-rural area).

[@Noah-qt3rq]

If you live in a city and have natural gas piped to your house it makes sense to have a generator that can use that. If the grid is out, natural gas will still be available and there’s no need to store regular gas. The Honda eu2200i with the tri fuel adapter kit is a good option

[@winfordnettles3292]

Thanks for posting. I live in Florida, the hurricane center of the world, and, always keep my generator in top running condition. The tips that you shared in the video are the exact same ones that I recommend. Thanks again for the informative video.

[@BackyardMaine]

Thank you.

[@LesterFougere]

I use sta-bil because it's good for two years,unlike most others that only protect for one year. Thanks for the great tips,Lester

[@barrygrant2907]

I bought a 5500-watt generator during the 2004 Florida hurricanes, two of which passed directly over me. I've had to use it only about three times since, for a few days to a few hours, But I use only non-ethanol gas with StaBil and a bit of Marvel Mystery oil added. I pull it out prior to each hurricane season for a test run with a half-gallon of gas or so, make sure it's producing power, and then let the tank and carb run dry. After twenty years it still starts on 1-2 pulls. The only real problem is the tubed tires always seem to be nearly flat. It is stored in the garage with a cover and is in like-new condition--except for the low tires. One day I'll put sold wheels on it.

[@JeffC-dj3gd]

Harbor Freight, Amazon & Walmart all market "flat-free" replacement wheels that are in the usual sizes for small equipment use. I replace mine with the flat-free ones & don't have that trouble.

[@vincentrobinette1507]

When you shut off the fuel to drain the carburetor, you should then apply full choke, then, attempt to start the engine again. you'll be surprised, that the generator will most likely actually start! The extra vacuum of having the choke closed while running, will clear the emulsion tube, as well as clearing the idle circut. That way, there is no residual liquid fuel to evaporate, and leave varnish/gum behind.

[@BackyardMaine]

Thanks for the info..

[@Xanthopteryx]

When i turn the knob to choke, it will start flowing petrol again so...

[@nchambers007]

@@Xanthopteryx His tip was for generators that have a choke and a fuel shutoff.

[@Xanthopteryx]

​@@nchambers007My generator have that. A turn knob. Ignition off and fuel off, Ignition on and fuel off, Ignition on and fuel on, Ignition on and fuel on and choke on.

[@Garth_Bowen]

Well done John! An !!!EXCELLENT!!! video. I'm an old 'Genny' hand and you nailed it my friend. I can attest that the points you covered here are key and vital for any owner. Thanks again, Garth. 👍👍👍

[@BackyardMaine]

Thanks so much Garth.

[@larryrenaud6076]

Thanks for video Good to know some basic maintenance tips you shared here Take care and be safe

[@BackyardMaine]

You bet

[@troy9616]

Good information. I usually perform all these, but did not think about the spark arrester screen..

[@TxHornyToad]

I have had a Honda 1000i for 20 years. I have needed it maybe half dozen times for power outages. It always starts. I use non- ethanol gas.

[@BackyardMaine]

Honda make very reliable generators. Non- ethanol gas is always a good plan..

[@nodak81]

I've had a Troy-Bilt 7,500 watt generator for 18 years and it always starts as well. I use pump gas with ethanol in it. Makes no difference as long as you run the carb dry after each use.

[@kazparzyxzpenualt8111]

This was a helpful video. Thanks! I would respectfully add three important tips for your viewers to consider as well. I believe most of the generator sets people use eventually have brush issues if they last long enough. I had a bad experience once because obtaining the correct replacement took an inconvenient amount of time. I recommend having a few replacements ready to slip in if the day comes when the motor still runs but for some reason no electric power is being produced. This can often be the reason. Some generators wear out one first for some reason. A worn out brush can overheat the housing for this little easily changed out item. Most of the ones I have seen do this have deformed because they are plastic. While this may also indicate damage to the commutator surfaces which is a little more of a deep dive requiring further inspection just being able to make power again right away is a big relief if you have the right part handy. The next tip I involves non ethanol fuel. I saw a video explaining how much previously pumped fuel remains in the hose when you think you are selecting non ethanol if there is only one hose dispensing fuels. Apparently the hose always has about 1 and a half gallons of what ever was last pumped. I now follow the advice suggested and put about that much into my vehicle first before trying to put any of the the non ethanol into a gas container for my generator or other small engine needs. Lastly. I really think more people could keep generator going longer if oil changes were much more frequent. Oil is cheap compared to all the hassles of worn out engines over time. With no oil filters generators are at the mercy of all the oil breakdown and contamination. The recommended oil change intervals seem self destructive and designed to just sell more generators.

[@jllaine]

Nice tip about the spark arrestor.

[@ironmartysharpe8293]

One thing I strongly recommend is using a synthetic oil in the engine for better lubrication , Especially on startup because the engine is immediately running at 3600 RPM and you definitely need good lubrication for an engine that's running at 3600 RPM Which is much faster than a car engine at highway speed , Check the owners manual because your generator may call for synthetic oil

[@BackyardMaine]

Mine doesn't but thats a good point. Just make sure you're buying oil designed for small engines.

[@ironmartysharpe8293]

@BackyardMaine Even though your generator doesn't call for synthetic oil , It would be wise to switch to synthetic but once you switch to synthetic , You have to stay with synthetic , Synthetic oil gives you better lubrication on startup because 90%. of engine wear is starting wear

[@ironmartysharpe8293]

@@BackyardMaine Hello BackyardMaine Besides using synthetic oil in my generator I especially use it in my air compressor because synthetic oil won't cause carbon buildup in the valves , I used to rebuild air compressors and pumps and I've seen alot of air compressors come in for repair and the valves and cylinder heads had really bad carbon buildup , With synthetic oil , There is virtually zero carbon buildup So If you have an air compressor or plan to buy one , Definitely use synthetic oil Especially if you buy a new one You will greatly stretch the life of the valves And synthetic oil has better lubricating properties and you don't need to change viscosity with the change of seasons as you would have to with conventional oil I've had my air compressor for 8 years and I use it alot and is still running like a champ

[@OnusBones]

We have a small Ryobi camping generator. It is quiet, and produces enough power to run a couple of refrigerators and charge other things. I test it once or twice a year, and it's due now, so thanks for the reminder. It has NEVER experienced ethanol, and never will; untainted regular ONLY. It has no fuel shutoff (that I know of), so I put a few ounces in the tank then run it dry. It is stored inside.

[@Jim-bx7vs]

I do that same method when shutting down my generator only mine runs on propane ,I just close the valve to the propane tank and let it stall ,thanks for sharing👍

[@creamshop]

Thank you so much for all this FREE precious information !

[@BackyardMaine]

My pleasure..

[@thefretfiend]

Tip #8: Consider a multi-fuel generator. Even with Stabil or an equivalent, gasoline in storage or in a tank will begin to deteriorate, in as little as five or six months. LP gas has an almost infinite shelf life. You can run a generator off of grill tanks, or if you have a large home LP gas tank or a natural gas connection, you can have your gas company install a quick-disconnect gas line where you run the generator.

[@Robnord1]

Another benefit I am seeing running LP gas, is that the oil is staying cleaner for longer. Probably fewer depo0sits on the piston and valves too. Now I just keep gasoline as a reserve, or plan B if propane runs low.

[@Robnord1]

Before you tell your gas company to install a Quick Disconnect fitting, be sure the QD fitting they have is rated for 1.25-1.5 times the BTU rating of your generator, otherwise you may starve the generator for fuel, and cause a harmful lean burn. A standard flare connection is often the better option . (LP gas pro tip)

[@1wheeldrive751]

I had a vacation home in Vermont a few years ago. The home was heated with propane (no natural gas in the area), so there was a 500 Gallon above ground propane tank in the back yard. The propane delivery guys will only fill to 80%, so it would hold 400 gallons. The price of propane is about $3.50 per gallon, so to fill that tank it would cost about $1400. When I looked for an auto start, whole house generator, there are two kinds: Natural gas and propane. I calculated the fuel consumption rate of a 10-15KW auto start generator and determined that, in the event of a serious power outage (like we get fairly frequently) I would burn through the full 400 gallons in just over a week. Nevermind the cost of the fuel, if I emptied the tank in the middle of a power outage catastrophe, usually in the middle of winter, the chances of getting the propane company to fill the tank on short notice is pretty slim. Plus, when I ran out of propane I would have no more heat. Instead, I installed a panel interlock, and breaker to feed my panel from a temporary emergency gas fueled generator. Gasoline is readily available, even during widespread power outages, because all of the gas stations have backup generators. It’s a 6KW, manual start. I also installed a remote, internet based temperature monitoring system that alarmed if the furnace wasn’t keeping temps up, and also alarmed if it didn’t check-in every hour (power outage). In the event of an alarm I had to jump in the car and drive the 2 hours to the vacation home. We sold the vacation home, but I still have and use that generator (a Generac), for the rural Vermont home we live in full-time now. I keep four, 5 gallon cans with E0 fuel in them. 10 gallons will last about 24 hours, so I only need to fetch gas every other day during extended power outage. The E0 fuel won’t go bad for more than a year. After a year I burn it in our vehicles and refill the cans with fresh E0. We have lost power for a week twice here in the past 4 years, and my wife’s 97 y/o mother lives with us. Having emergency power is literally a life saver.

[@daleharvey3278]

In cold weather propane isn't as efficient,and you can have moisture,it will turn oil milky,,is it quality of propane?? I prefer non ethanol gas....and I now use ethanol shield in my gas when I hav'nt made the 60 mile trip ....try adding colored water to gas and MEASURE it....before and after. It will remove the ethanol.

[@Robnord1]

@@daleharvey3278 Propane isn't causing milky oil Dale. Research time young man, unless you're okay with hearsay and myth as fact. Generac, Onan, Honda, and the rest all have the real answers to milky oil causes.

[@MegaGeorge1948]

I own a propane portable generator. I shut it off by closing the propane fuel tank valve and let it stall. Also I can store the generator in my basement. Because there is no unburnt fuel in it. Grounding the generator is important too. The oil stays cleaner by burning propane too. You are correct by saying to test the generator periodically.

[@BackyardMaine]

Grounding a generator is very often misunderstood by homeowners and even some electricians. I need to make a video on the subject. A separator wire connected to a ground rod from the frame of the generator is only required if the generator is run as a separately derived system. That's when you have a bonded neutral generator and in that case you need a transfer switch that switches the neutral along with the hot leads because a neutral to ground bond and only happen in one location on your system. Otherwise a ground rod connection to the frame of the generator is actually less safe. The ground wire from your connection cord bonds the frame of the generator to your building grounding electrode and more importantly to the neutral to ground bond at your main.

[@lkane9346]

Thank you so much for this video, very useful tips as usual.👏🏻🤝

[@BackyardMaine]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching.

[@saginaw60]

Don't know if i am stupid, but for a test run use a 240v. stove element, to exercise all the generator windings. Engineer told me that work under load dries things out.

[@peterjuodikis1204]

I have a 25 year old 3500 running watt troybilt with briggs and stratton engine...use full synthetic oil, mix ethanol fuel which is common here, with stabil and techron fuel system cleaner..run tank dry...still starts and runs great..

[@waltjames9988]

On some generators even after running it dry there is a drain plug on the bowl on bottom or side on carburetor to get rest of gas out of unit

[@Dave-ld3dr]

If this is considered wrong please let me know.I add stabil to the gas & let it run dry but before it’s ready to die I add more Stabil until it stalls out.This way I know there’s stabil in the carb & hopefully protects it from gumming up.I pulled mine out from last year & it takes a little longer to start until the stabil clears but then it fires right up.My thinking is leave Stabil in the carb because I heard the carb shouldn’t be left dry.The seals can dry out is what I have been told.

[@JageeAgain]

Very nice summary of maintenance. Thanks john

[@BackyardMaine]

You bet.. Thanks for watching.

[@SonnyPruitt-q1s]

As far as changing oil goes..I had a lawnmower with a Briggs and Stratton engine and never changed the oil just added oil and after 12 years it was still running fine and gave it away.😊

[@BackyardMaine]

Surprising.. Briggs must make a good engine.

[@BarryinFredonia]

Great video. I’m happy I do all of these steps!

[@BackyardMaine]

Perfect!

[@graftedin3]

Thanks so much for the good tips, I already do some of these but now I have more information. Good instruction!

[@BackyardMaine]

You are so welcome! Thanks for watching.

[@tedfisk1211]

Very interesting information that I wished I had when I had a generator for my house back in the 90s in Connecticut. I brought the generator with me, but I really didn't know these steps. The owners manual wasn't very helpful. Oh well.

[@ashleymarie7452]

Excellent! Very relevant, succinct and well presented!

[@BackyardMaine]

Thank you kindly!

[@HWCism]

Great tips, thank you

[@ranger178]

i buy ethanol free gas for all of my small engines and use stabilizer in gas and run them out of gas if they will not be used for a while. have you tried the engine cylinder foaming oil for keeping cylinders from rusting? I have a brand-new generator i have never used not sure if I should put gas in it and run it or just leave it as it comes from factory.

[@BackyardMaine]

They aren't usually shipped with engine oil. I would check and or add oil, fuel it up and run it so you know it's ready when needed. I find it better to keep the gas tank full for two reason. It limits condensation and rust but also give you a head start of fuel depending on how many gas cans you have on hand. We lost power for 3 days in March and 10 days later we lost it for another 3 days.. Finding gas when 3/4 of the state is out of power is not always easy. Just my two cents..

[@JeffC-dj3gd]

Good tips, John. I would add to let your generator run unloaded for about 5 minutes before shutdown after being ran for power use, if possible. This allows the generator to "cool down" & stabilize temps. Also, I avoid the Ethanol problems of "gunking up the carburetor" by avoiding ethanol fuel. If you look around, some places sell "no ethanol gasoline". It costs a bit more, but is better for engines & provides better efficiency. There are apps that show the stations on the map, like "PURE GAS & GAS BUDDY. (I was a USAF 54252/3E072 Electrical Power Production Technician in a Combat Communications Unit) P.s. Please make sure to properly ground the generator before you power your devices/home. It helps to protect YOU & the generator. 😉🤠 God bless.)

[@solarforfuture]

had to flash mine a few seasons ago... worked fine ... thanks

[@JeffC-dj3gd]

Not always, but usually, having to "flash the field" of small portable generators is due to overloading/excessive heat in the generator.(Heat kills magnetism) They are self-excited by residual magnetism in the stator. "Flashing the field" restores that magnetism. Some generators have circuitry that uses battery voltage to flash the field on start-up up & large power plant generators have separate exciters.

[@snakeinthegrass7443]

Great vid, John. Thanks!!

[@BackyardMaine]

You bet! Thanks for watching..

[@snakeinthegrass7443]

@@BackyardMaine The only non-ethanol gas around here is premium, which is all I use in my small engines. Idk if that's good or bad bc I don't know what effect the higher octane has on the engines, if any. I put stablizer and a little Lucas right in every gas can when I fill it. That way I don't have to worry when I forget to start something for a while. Cheers from upstate NY.

[@thomasschwarting5108]

Shutting off the gas and letting it run out is the BEST way to make sure it'll work EVERY TIME!

[@BackyardMaine]

@@thomasschwarting5108 Yes just remember to turn it back on when you try to start it. lol Mine usually starts on the first pull.

[@RayleighCriterion]

Using Seafoam is also necessary for small engines. put it in the gasoline to both extend shelf life and keeping the carburetor and intake/combustion chamber clean. Then before you do an oil change, put Seafoam in the oil and run the generator for at least two hours, this will clean deposits out of the crankcase, these deposits cause engine wear and ultimately engine failure.

[@keithsyers5833]

I've got another tip. Don't turn your fuel and ignition on straight away. Turn the generator over a couple of times so it builds the oil pressure up so lubricates all the moving parts. Especially after a long period of storage

[@gibblespascack1418]

For my 1998 Generac XL 5500, the manual has a long term storage procedure. After the emergency, you run the generator out of fuel, Change the oil and filter, then pull the plug, clean it and put a squirt of oil in the cylinder, pull the cord a few revolutions, replace the plug then pull the cord until both valves are closed. The your generator is ready to store for years. Every few years if you did not use it, pull it out of the shed, add gas and run it for 30-45 minutes under load then run the engine dry again. This process has allowed the generator to start on the first pull when starting up. Gas for my generator is Ethanol Free and stabilized before use. I also keep 27 gal of stabilized ethanol free Super gas in storage, and every 6 months(March and September) the gas is put though a car and replaced. Yes also follow the maintenance schedule in the manual.

[@scottshaw986]

Marvel mystery oil mixed in the fuel will do much To protect your carburetor and internal engine components and cylinder / valve train. Fogging oil into the carb intake will also help

[@pilottou]

I do this as well. At the end of hurricane season, I’ll drain the tank completely and run that in my truck. Disconnect the fuel line and feed MMO to the carb until it smokes/stalls. Carb, valves, cylinders are fogged and the tank is dry. Fresh fuel goes in when needed next time or for a periodic run.

[@mikekyle-y8i]

One thing that has kept my old McCullough generator going is using only ethanol free fuel. Its not cheap, but I use it on all my two and 4 stroke power tools and dont have any problems.

[@jonkilowatt4442]

I run 5w-40 diesel full synthetic oil in all of my small engines + Lucas oil additive. Never had one problem. And I have many small engines and two generators.

[@BackyardMaine]

I stick with the manufacturers recommendations.

[@javabeanz8549]

I have watched some other channels, where they recommend "Ethanol Shield" over "Sta-BIL." And while it is more expensive, you can get ethanol free gas in some areas. I run my mowers and weed eaters on the Non-Ethanol fuel only.

[@leonvanderlinde5580]

Thanks a lot. It helps a lot.

[@BackyardMaine]

Glad it helped!

[@joemc111]

I live in Pinellas County Florida. When Helene hit many homes went underwater. When Milton hit the power outage map showed over 400,000 without power. That led to a new problem, with a low estimate of about 20,000 generators running using about 12 gallons of gas a day that meant that upwards to 180 extra loads of gasoline at 8000 gallons load would be needed in the county just to run generators. People were driving 100 miles to get gas for the generators. I may be off with my numbers I don’t know.

[@BackyardMaine]

Glad you got through the storms safely...

[@michaelzimmerman9221]

I’ve used PRI-G for years now and it will allow you to use very old gas, even ethanol gas! Turn off gas and run it until the gas runs out, and use pri-g and no problems guaranteed!

[@DargoDog]

With exception of the dead of winter, I run/test my generator once a month. I also use Stabil in my gas cans to keep the fuel fresh. I only us non-ethanol fuel in my small motors. It costs a little more, but taking a motor to a mechanic, or worse, not having my generator when I need it is more expensive. I haven't touch my spark arrester, going to have to add that to my maintenance cycle.

[@sparkynapalm3662]

I used to use Stabil but Ethanol Shield is better. A multi fuel generator is best. I use my propane exclusively because it does not go bad and no ethanol to worry about.

[@jhardworkingcanadiancitize9186]

If your exhaust spark arrestor plugs up bad burning the cage clean with a mini torch works great

[@jonkirkwood469]

I've got some Stihl equipment and I use a torch to clear the spark arrestors. Never thought about my generator. The torch burns the coke off in just a few seconds. Got the tip from another person in the Great White North.

[@grantperkins368]

​@@jonkirkwood469yep, great for chain saws and whipper snippers 👍

[@62Cristoforo]

I was wondering if soaking the screen in a small cup of WD for a few minutes would also effectively dissolve the carbonized buildup?

[@grantperkins368]

@@62Cristoforo that would just make it gluggy .but it might help you to scrape it off easier. the best way to remove the most carbon is to burn it off. Quick and clean 👍

[@bluenetmarketing]

Excellent suggestions!

[@anthonyj.adventures9736]

I dont own a generator but do own alot of small engine stuff. Lawn equipment. And a motorized bike. I run them once a week during the winter to keep the internals from rusting. I had my bike piston po on me from letting it sit out in the elements and the chinezium thing broke.

[@paulboomer7109]

With my generator I store it in the box it came in I just cut the bottom of the box away and I put the top over it. I run it twice a year on a test tank I run the carburetor dry and I drain it. I drain all the fuel from the gas tank years ago when I was finished with it so it's ready to go.😊

[@ralphparker]

Our long term power outages are rare here, I drain the fuel from the tank and then run it till it stops before putting it away.

[@winstonsizemore2385]

I'm in the habit of changing the oil on my Honda EU 2200 every 24 hours of use. It's less than a half a quart. I also run only non-ethanol fuel. It's been running seamlessly since 2017 and I haven't even needed to change the spark plug

[@BackyardMaine]

You never change your oil too often especially when it takes a half a quart.

[@jimr7120]

Great reminder! Thanks. Am i asking for trouble by trying to fit a small auto muffler to my exhaust?

[@BackyardMaine]

You may want to talk to a mechanic on that one. I’m not sure how they would effect the performance

[@zachredner8]

Excellent advice! Even though my generator only requires 87 octane gasoline what I do to avoid the problem created by using gasoline containing ethanol, I only run "Premium Gas" in my generator and ALL of my gas powered yard tools (i.e., mower, weed eater, chain saw, etc.), and my motorcycle, because most, if not all, Premium Gas does NOT contain any ethanol! I just don't burn ethanol in any of those motors, and they all perform much better and need less repairs. 1 - Don't shut off the generator, shut off the gas feed and let it run out of gas to empty the carburetor. 2 - Store the generator in a clean, dry location, and leave it easily accessible for when it's needed. 3 - Periodically Test Run the generator every 3 months, let it run for 10-15 minutes with a load on it. 4 - Use "Sta-Bil" Fuel Stabilizer in your gas can to ensure your gas is ready to go. 5 - Check your engine oil before each use, & Change your engine oil after the first 5 hours (for new) and then every 50-100 hours of use. 6 - Inspect and Clean the Air Filter at least once every season. 7 - Check & Clean the Spark Arrestor in the muffler at every oil change.

[@juans6639]

Happened to me during that bad ice storm in Texas. The ETHANOL Garbage fuel destroyed the New generator carburetor, shutoff gas valve and would not run. I have now since converted it to Propane. It runs EVERYTIME and no longer have to worry about fuel storage or going bad. I should have used Ethanol free gasoline in the first place.

[@jammer6524]

I don't use gasoline with ethanol in any of my small engines. If you don't have any gas stations with ethanol free fuels there are many KZbin videos that show you how to take the ethanol out of your gasoline. P.S. great video

[@dougberrett8094]

Amen to the run dry technique. Been doing it for years. I “exercise” my generators by using one or the other to power an electric edger. Sure, it is easier to just plug the edger into the house power, but this way some actual work can be obtained from the exercise. In my location the lawn needs to be mowed year round, so many of you who live in the frozen tundra of the north may not like this method. One other tip. Do not use a generator larger than needed. I have a larger one (6500 cont) and a smaller one (1800 cont). The smaller one is WAY quieter, AND more importantly is WAY easier on fuel. When the last tropical cyclone went through and left me without power for 6 1/2 days, I found the smaller unit could power the refrigerators and a small window A/C unit. No worries about gas, and quiet enough to run any time. It is NOT necessary to run the generator non-stop. If one is careful to open the fridge only when absolutely necessary one can run an on-off cycle. I use 3 hours on 3 hours off.

[@BackyardMaine]

Great Points..

[@Mysailingvacation]

Another reason why I like your videos.. you did mention residual magnetism... But when talking about occasional running you could have mentioned it again explaining that putting it under load helps to excite the field keeping that residual magnetism that is so essential rather than to have to flash the windings... I'm from away but my family came from Ft Kent to Brunswick. You have that Yankee ingenuity and are smarter as a Mainah !

[@BackyardMaine]

Thank you.. It's a beautiful state. I've lived here for about 30 years now. I have had to flash a few generators and have had success every time except one.

[@GNX157]

A more advanced advice. For longer storage periods, drain carb bowl completely, remove fuel inlet hose, and fill bowl with Echo Red Armor 2-stroke oil. It will keep carb clean and rubber pliable and in good shape. Drain bowl before next start.

[@onmyworkbench7000]

I turn off the fuel and wait for the engine to start to die then I turn on the choke before the engine completely stops and it starts back up and as soon as it does I turn off the choke and let the engine run until it starts to die again and I do the choke again, I do this over several times until the engine fails to start back up. This will get every last drop of gasoline out of the carburetor. I cycle mine every month and in the winter I run mowers once a month as well.

[@brucemitchell4581]

Thanks for the valuable tips my friend appreciate it

[@BackyardMaine]

You bet

[@johnduffy6546]

GREAT and informative video...Personally, I would test my generator once a month

[@BackyardMaine]

Thats an even better plan if you can stick to it.

[@joestalin2375]

I made a exhaust pipe and covered my spark arrester with J-B weld OOPS! I use my generator to top off batteries that the solar doesn't charge so i save gas and less wear .

[@hardymichael533]

Good idea add extra Anker SOLIX F3800

[@BackyardMaine]

I have an Anker Solix F3800 with an expansion battery.. lol

[@quinntheeskimooutdoors6234]

Thanks for sharing 😊

[@BackyardMaine]

My pleasure 😊 Thanks for watching.

[@John-tx1wk]

For Sta-Bil use you need to make sure the Sta-Bil itself is fresh. It has a "use by" date and can go bad. Unless it has changed it is five years unopened and two years opened. I have accidently used old Sta-Bil and it did render the fuel unusable. I no longer use any stabilizer and buy non-ethanol and rotate that every six months. And yes, I drain my generator on a six month cycle. I keep it fully fueled year around to prevent rust in the tank.

[@darlenecarter7859]

What about diesel generator ? Do same thing as gas ?

[@donames6941]

I run mine once a month to run my air compresser that i use to air up tires and turn off the gas to shut down summer and winter sal-bil dont work will with todays gas unless its straight gas

[@bille9995]

Awesome lessons! Thank you very much!

[@BackyardMaine]

Glad it was helpful..

[@jimbarron8619]

Great video. Thanks.

[@projectswithjw]

I've got any unexpected one for ya. My Wgen11500TFc won't start without a battery while using the pull cord. It uses 12v to open the fuel solenoid on the carburetor. A side effect of being multi fuel. So keep a charged battery jump pack or jumper cables is part of the preparation.

[@peterduthie1806]

A jump pack probably won't work. The circuitry in them checks that they are connected to a battery and the polarity is correct. If the generator's battery is totally dead, zero volts then jumper pack won't provide voltage. Use jumper cables from your car instead.

[@elviraraff6809]

Not true, I repair generators and always use a jump starter with a stone dead sulfated battery or no battery at all. I have never had an issue using them.

[@peterduthie1806]

@@elviraraff6809 My neighbors dual fuel Champion 11,000 watt generator had a dead battery (zero volts) and using my fully charged jumper pack would start her generator or even connect to her battery because it could not see the generator's battery. Pull start wasn't an option as fuel solenoid would not open. Perhaps some jumper packs might work but not one that needs to see at least minimal voltage on the battery being jumped.

[@BackyardMaine]

I didn't know that but it does make sense.. Thanks.

[@BackyardMaine]

Some jump starters require battery voltage to function. The one I have has a button to bypass it so you can jump a vehicle with a stone dead battery.

[@curttisler]

I always use Shell premium gas, no ethanol. And stabilizer added to every gallon.

[@twistedhillbilly6157]

I prefer rebuilding my carb. outside in a blizzard.

[@alanjolly8988]

Taking the fuel management a step further, I always take all unused fuel in my gas cans, and dump them in my truck. Then fill up the gas cans and add STA-BIL. I do this once a year when I change oil. That way I never have gas that's more than a year old. I also never have much gas in the generator when stored. The generator is run every 2 weeks for 10 minutes on trash recycle pickup day.