As temperatures begin to cool down - even by a few degrees - your generator may start to react differently.  Cold weather may impact how well engines start, the fibrous nature of the fuel, and how well your unit runs overall.  Even if you encounter no freezing conditions, cooler weather still will change things.

You likely won't need to change the way you use your generator whether it is heavily used or sitting idle.  However, by providing a little extra attention during colder months, you will protect performance and reliability.

Here’s how to take care of your generator as temperatures drop:

1. Make Cold Starts Easier

Engines tend to struggle more in cold conditions. Oil thickens, batteries work harder, and ignition systems may respond slower.

What can you do?

• Run your generator once a week for 10–15 minutes to keep everything lubricated.
• Check the oil regularly and use the recommended grade for cooler temperatures.
• If you expect to need power, start the generator a bit early to allow warm-up time.

These small habits reduce strain and help avoid sluggish or failed starts when you need the generator most.

2. Check the Battery

A weak battery is one of the most common reasons generators fail in colder conditions. Just because it worked fine last season doesn’t mean it’s ready now.

Keep your battery in good shape by:

• Cleaning the terminals and checking for corrosion.
• Testing the voltage regularly.
• Replacing any battery that’s showing signs of weakness or age.

It’s better to replace a battery early than be caught with a generator that won’t start when it counts.

3. Keep Fuel Fresh and Monitored

The temperature of the fuel can impact fuel performance, especially when it comes to diesel units. Even if you are not dealing with gelling, the use of stale fuel and condensation can cause damage.

You can avoid fuel issues by:

•  Keeping your tank at least half full reduces moisture buildup
•  Checking the fuel lines, filters, and storage area for inspection and cleanliness
•  Run long enough finally during a test run to ensure fuel they circulate.
•  Fresh, clean fuel keeps your generator running efficiently, and it protects your inner engine components.

4. Warm It Up Before Use

Do not place a full load on the generator immediately after start-up. Allow the generator a few minutes of run time to allow oil and coolant to start circulating throughout the engine. Running a heavy load onto the engine without warming up is simply the best way to cause engine wear and guarantee variation in performance during use.

5. Keep the Area Around the Generator Clear

A tidy setup is a reliable one. Keep leaves, dust, and debris away from the unit. Good airflow is critical. If your generator is covered, use a ventilated, weather-rated enclosure—not a sealed plastic cover that can trap moisture.

6. Don’t Skip Maintenance

Cooler months are a smart time for a full inspection.Make sure to check:

• Oil and coolant levels.
• Battery condition and terminal connections.
• Air and fuel filters.
• Electrical connections for tightness and corrosion.

A consistent maintenance schedule helps avoid surprise breakdowns and ensures your generator stays dependable all year long.

Even without extreme cold, cooler temps still require a little extra care. These easy checks and good habits will help to keep your generator dependable, efficient, and ready when you decide you need it.

Need help getting your generator ready for the season? The GenServices team is here to support you and your equipment performing its best  whatever the elements throw at you.