How Often Should a Home Generator Be Serviced?
Key Takeaways
Most generators should be serviced annually or every 200 hours of use to get maintenance like oil changes, filter checks, and system inspections.
Frequent use or harsh conditions may call for more frequent service.
Regular generator service can help improve reliability and extend your generator’s lifespan.
Generally speaking, home standby generators should be serviced at least once a year or every 200 hours of use to ensure reliable performance during an outage.
Standby generators are designed to operate automatically when power is lost, and over time, engine components, oil, filters, and batteries can wear down and become less efficient. Without routine service, a generator may not start or perform as expected when it’s needed most during a power outage.
A typical service visit for a generator typically includes:
Oil and oil filter changes
Air filter inspection or replacement
Battery testing and replacement if needed
Inspection of fuel lines and connections
Checking coolant levels (for liquid-cooled models)
System diagnostics and operational testing
Many standby generators, like those from KOHLER Generators, also perform automatic self-tests on a regular schedule, but it’s still beneficial to have professional maintenance done.
When Should You Service Your Generator More Often?
You may need (or want) more frequent service if:
Your generator runs for extended periods during outages
You live in an area with frequent severe weather
Your generator unit tends to operate in extreme temperatures or dusty conditions
Routine standby generator maintenance helps ensure your generator starts quickly, runs efficiently, and delivers consistent power when utility electricity is unavailable. Generator maintenance can also extend the system's lifespan and help prevent costly repairs.
Working with a qualified service provider ensures your generator is properly maintained and ready to perform when your home needs it most.
