Frequently Asked Questions

It's a reliable backup system that ensures your home remains powered during outages, whether you're there or not. It kicks in automatically, providing power to your home's electrical circuit breaker box within seconds of an outage. Once the utility power is restored, the generator shuts off and waits for the next outage. These generators typically run on natural gas or liquid propane and are installed outside, similar to a central air conditioning unit

While an automatic standby generator is a fantastic backup solution for power outages, it can't replace utility service entirely. The cost of fuel for the generator would be significantly higher than the cost of electricity from the utility company, as the utility's production costs are spread across many customers

You can install the generator yourself, especially if you choose a prepackaged and pre-wired system like the Generac Guardian Series, which comes with comprehensive installation instructions. You could handle the simpler site preparation steps and then have a professional make the electrical panel and fuel connections, or you could complete the entire installation yourself. However, for safety reasons and to ensure adherence to all local, state, and national electrical codes, particularly for non pre-wired or larger systems, Generac recommends using an authorized dealer such as Green Sun Energy Services.

Generac Guardian Series generators can be installed as close as 18 inches from your home, provided your local building codes allow it. The exhaust side (left side) must be at least 5 feet away from any air inlet, such as a window or vent, and requires at least 3 feet of clearance on the sides and front of the unit. Additionally, the generator should be at least 3 feet away from the fuel meter, as it is considered a potential point of ignition. However, all installation distances are ultimately dictated by your local building codes, so it's essential to consult your local building code authority to ensure compliance.

Yes, standby generators do require simple maintenance to ensure they perform reliably for years. This includes periodic oil and filter changes. Preventative maintenance kits are available, and Green Sun Energy Services offers annual maintenance contracts for a worry-free ownership experience. For detailed routine maintenance procedures and schedules, it's best to refer to the owner's manual.

According to Generac, their automatic standby generators do not need a break-in period with specific loads. The only “break-in” period or task requirement the unit has is for the first 8 hours of operation you will want to run an SAE 5 W 30 (non-synthetic) oil and do a full oil change once those 8 hours are complete for 2013 and older units. We chance the oil for 2014 and newer generators after 25 hours of use. This is also an excellent time to adjust the valves.

For the recommended oil to use in Generac Guardian Series generators, it's essential to check the manual for each specific model, as oil recommendations can vary. Generally, oil recommendations are based on climate or temperature. For areas with seasons, synthetic 5W-30 can be used year-round, but it is not recommended in very cold temperatures.

Generac generators come with overload protection. If an overload occurs, the generator's circuit breaker will trip, disconnecting the unit from the load. To resolve this, simply correct the overload and reset the breaker in the generator

To open an air-cooled home standby generator manufactured in 2008 or later, you'll need a key to unlock its two locks before opening the lid. The unit is locked when it is shipped. Apply heavy pressure on the lid above each lock while turning the key at the same time.

Be sure to apply firm pressure to the lid of the generator when turning the key. If you need additional assistance, please contact 888-GENERAC.

The keys to all 2008 and newer air-cooled generators are all the same.  You can purchase one at Amazon by searching for part number 0G6624 or clicking here.

Click here for instructions on how to locate your generator's serial number.

During an outage, it's recommended to shut down your home standby generator every 24 hours to inspect the air filter and oil level. Let the engine cool for about 15 minutes to get an accurate reading on the dipstick. For air-cooled units, a complete oil change is needed after every 200 hours of operation, while for liquid-cooled units, it's required after every 100 hours of operation.

Extended warranties are available for our home standby and commercial generators, (this does not include the CorePower Series,EcoGen, portables or power washers.) Check out the Warranty & Maintenance section of our website for details. 

The following installations will void the warranty on an automatic standby generator:

• Generators used where no utility power is present (e.g., hunting cabins)

• Generators used to charge backup battery systems for alternative energy sources (this does not include the EcoGen series)

• Improper installations (clearance requirements, wiring, etc.)

• Modifications to the original design (extending the exhaust, etc.)

• Indoor installations

To set the exercise time for Generac Guardian Series generators (6 kW and 8-26 kW units), follow these steps:

1. Go to the control board and access the "edit" screen.

2. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the desired date and time.

3. Remember, the generator time and exercise time are in military time. For example, if you want the generator to exercise at 1 PM, set the exercise time to 1300 hours.

For the CorePower TM Series/analog control boards:

1. Press and hold the "set exercise" button for 10 seconds or until the generator starts.

2. The unit will then exercise weekly on that day and time each week.

3. To reset the exercise time, disconnect the battery and press/hold the button again at the desired day/time.

In extreme cold weather, Generac strongly recommends adding a cold weather kit to ensure your standby generator starts reliably. The cold weather kit includes thermostatically controlled battery warmers, which automatically turn on when the temperature drops below 40 degrees. The kit also includes a crankcase heater to prevent the oil from thickening. Generators are filled with ordinary 10W-30 oil at the factory, but it's recommended to switch to 5W-30 synthetic oil when adding a heater.

If your utility company doesn't have a power failure for a long time, it's a good idea to run a loss of power simulation to test both the electrical portion of the generator and the Automatic Transfer Switch mechanism. While the generator runs its weekly 10-12 minute engine test, this only tests the engine and not the electrical generating capacity or the automatic transfer switch.

To run a loss of power simulation:

1. Trip the main breaker at the top of the Generac Transfer Switch.

2. Let the generator run for at least 15 minutes to properly exercise it.

3. To complete the test, close the 200 amp breaker in the transfer switch to simulate the return of utility power.

The generator will run for a few minutes after utility power has been restored and then turn off.

Generac generators do not have surge protection and will not protect your home from electrical surges. Additionally, the generator transfer switch is also vulnerable to power surges. It's code requirement in New Jersey to install a UL-listed Generator Transfer Surge Protector, which protects not only the generator transfer switch but the entire house.

Generac Standby Generators deliver best-in-class power quality at 60 Hz frequency with less than 5% total harmonic distortion, ensuring clean and smooth operation of sensitive electronics and appliances. However, lights may dim when the generator surges to start the AC condenser or other large motor loads. Some switches, such as Leviton rf+ series switches, z-wave dimmer switches, and LED light bulbs, can act erratically (flicker or strobe) when under generator power. A quick fix is to reset the breaker for the circuits being affected. Click here to learn more about this topic.

Owner’s manuals and other technical / repair information can be downloaded from our Generac's Manual Search or call 1-888-GENERAC.

During times of expected snowfall, it's important to ensure that snow and ice are cleared off and away from the generator enclosure. There should be no snow piles or large accumulations of snow within three feet of the unit to ensure proper airflow if the generator is needed during an outage. If necessary, due to local codes or in areas with high precipitation, the unit may be installed on a structural steel base to elevate it. The base must be level and meet all spatial recommendations in the manual, as well as comply with local and national codes.

Generac standby generators are specifically designed for extended run times, so having it run for a week or longer is definitely possible. Your only limitation is the fuel type, meaning the size of your propane tank or the supply of natural gas. We also recommend stopping the unit and checking the oil after 24 hours of straight operation and performing scheduled maintenance after 200 hours of operation. See your owners manual for instructions on how to check your oil.

To turn off your generator at night and back on in the morning to preserve fuel, follow these steps:

1. Turn the generator breaker off.

2. Switch the main electrical panel breaker to off.

3. Switch the three-position switch to off.

4. Remove the fuse on the control panel.

To put the generator back into service, simply follow the process in reverse.

To connect your Generac Generator to Wi-Fi for MobileLink, follow these steps:

1. Create an account on MobileLinkGen.com.

2. Connect your generator to your home Wi-Fi network.

3. Download the Mobile Link Setup app to quickly and easily connect your generator.

With Mobile Link Wi-Fi remote monitoring, you can monitor your home standby generator directly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. You'll have access to important information such as current operating status, maintenance schedule, historical information, and more.

The simplest way to set this up is to follow these instructions: https://www.generac.com/service-support/how-to-connect-using-the-mobile-link-setup-app

Choosing the best Generac Authorized Sales & Service Dealer in New Jersey can indeed be challenging. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

1. Expertise: Ensure the dealer has an active dealer number registered with Generac and expertise in installing Generac standby generator systems. They should be able to point to successful installations in New Jersey.

2. Licenses and Insurance: The dealer should have all necessary licenses and insurance policies required by the state of New Jersey. This includes general contracting, electrician, plumbing, and banking & insurance licenses if financing is involved. They should also have general liability and workers' compensation insurance.

3. Reputation: Check reputable review sites like the Better Business Bureau and Angie's List for verified reviews. Look at the complaints section on the Better Business Bureau website to see if there have been issues with the company. Visiting the dealer's Facebook page can also give you a better feel for their work and public interactions.

4. Long-term Relationship: Choose a dealer who seeks a long-term relationship based on mutual benefit, not just a short-term transaction. They should be professional and competent, and you should feel comfortable doing business with them.

5. Comprehensive Service: The dealer should manage the entire process for you, from installation to maintenance.

For backup power only, a standby generator is generally more reliable in New Jersey because it can run continuously during multi-day outages as long as fuel is available, while solar + battery depends on stored energy and weather conditions. To learn more, check out our Blog Post.