Generator Help During an Outage
Five Quick Things to Check
When the power goes out, start with the simple things.
Always follow your generator owner’s manual. If the generator shows a fault or repeatedly shuts down, take a photo of the display before clearing anything.
- Check AUTO mode.
Make sure the generator has not been switched to OFF or MANUAL. - Look at the control panel.
Check for a red light, warning, alarm or fault code. - Check the battery.
A weak or dead battery can prevent the generator from starting. - Check the emergency stop.
If equipped, make sure it has not been accidentally pushed. - Check the fuel supply.
Confirm adequate diesel or propane fuel, or that natural gas service has not been interrupted.
Still not running?
Do not keep repeatedly restarting or resetting the generator if it continues to shut down. The generator may be protecting itself from a problem.
Take a photo of the fault and call for service.
Safety first: Never remove panels, bypass safety devices, work on live electrical equipment, or open fuel lines. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, so keep doors, windows and air intakes clear of exhaust and have a working carbon monoxide detector.