Reliable power is essential in Australia. Whether it’s to power up your campsite in the outback, keep the lights on during an unexpected power cut, or run tools at a remote job site, you’ll need a reliable partner by your side, like an inverter generator.
But like any hardworking gear, it needs a little bit of TLC to make sure it functions without any hiccups. The good news? Keeping your generator in its best shape doesn’t have to be complicated. For instance, with a Gentrax generator, regular maintenance and routine checks help keep your trusty portable power source in top shape for every adventure or emergency.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters for Your Inverter Generator
Proper generator upkeep is the key to a great life with your generator. Taking care of it can help you extend generator life, maximise fuel efficiency, ensure safety and consistent performance, and prevent costly repairs.
For Gentrax users, routine inverter generator maintenance guarantees that your Gentrax generator stays a capable source of reliable backup power.
Your Essential Inverter Generator Maintenance Checklist
So, what are the key Gentrax maintenance tasks you need to keep in mind?
Before Each Use: Quick Checks
Before every use, it’s ideal to take a minute to do a quick check on your generator to ensure safe use and avoid bigger issues later. Check the engine oil level, fuel, exterior, and air filters. Make sure there are no visible signs of damage, fuel/oil leaks, blockages, or dirt buildup, and that both fuel and oil are at an ideal level.
Maintenance Guide on Key Parts
There are four key parts that you must maintain to keep your inverter generator running smoothly. Let’s discuss each of these in this section.
Engine Oil: The Lifeblood
The oil is the lifeblood of your portable generator. It’s what keeps it running smoothly. Regularly changing oil in a portable generator is an important step you shouldn’t skip—especially if you want to avoid serious wear and tear.
How to Know If Your Oil Needs Changing
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to check your oil’s condition:
- Make sure your generator is off, unplugged, and cool.
- Unscrew the dipstick and wipe it clean.
- Reinsert it without screwing it in (unless the manual says so), then pull it out again.
- Look at the colour and texture of the oil on the dipstick.
Light golden or amber-coloured oil means it’s still fresh. If it looks dark, dirty, or gritty, it means the oil needs to be changed. If it doesn’t reach the mark on the dipstick, you’ll need to top it up.
How Frequent Should You Change the Oil?
After the first 20 hours of usage, an initial generator oil change is required. After that, it’s recommended that you change the oil every 100 hours or so (or more often if you’re using it in a dusty area). Don’t forget to use the recommended oil type for your generator. If it’s a Gentrax model, the oil type is specified in your Gentrax maintenance manual.
Air Filter: Breathing Easy
The generator air filter is its first line of defence against dirt and debris. Clean air intake means longer lasting and better engine performance, so it’s important to pay attention to your air filters and make sure they are clean.
How to Clean Air Filters?
For foam filters, here's an easy step-by-step cleaning guide:
- Remove the filter cover and gently take out the filter.
- Wash it with warm, soapy water.
- Rinse it and gently squeeze out any excess water (don’t wring!).
- Let it dry completely.
- Lightly oil the filter if your manual says so (some foam filters require it).
- Reinstall and secure the cover.
- Check and clean air filters every 25 hours of use—or more often if used in a dirty or dusty area, like on a job site or during a windy outback trip.
How Often Should You Change Your Air Filters?
Generally, we recommend that you replace air filters every 50 hours of use. However, you may replace it sooner if it looks torn or damaged, deformed or brittle, or if it’s still dirty after cleaning. Paper filters, on the other hand, can’t be washed, so they must be replaced immediately if they’re dirty.
Spark Plug: The Vital Spark
The spark plug is another crucial part of your inverter generator. A worn or dirty plug can render your machine useless, causing problems with the generator ignition. As a result, it won’t be able to supply you with any power. Luckily, spark plug maintenance is simple.
Basic Cleaning Steps:
- Remove the spark plug using a socket wrench.
- Inspect the tip for any wear or carbon or oil residue.
- Clean it with a wire brush if it’s still in good shape, otherwise, you may replace it.
- Check the gap using a feeler gauge and re-gap if necessary (check your user manual for the correct specs).
- Reinstall carefully, making sure not to overtighten.
What Are Signs It Needs Changing?
If your spark plug has heavy carbon buildup or oil fouling, it needs to be replaced. A cracked porcelain or damaged electrode is also a sign that your spark plug is at the end of its life. If you’re having consistent starting issues with your inverter generator, it may also be time for a change.
When Should You Replace It?
Replace it every 300 hours or once a year, even if it looks okay—especially if you rely on your generator during emergencies.
How Often Should You Check It?
Inspect the spark plug every 100 hours or use or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Check it more frequently if your generator is hard to start, misfiring, or running rough. Regularly checking and replacing your spark plug helps you avoid generator starting issues and poor performance.
Fuel System Care: Preventing Stale Fuel Issues
Stale fuel is probably one of the most common generator problems. It can gum up your carburettor and even make starting a nightmare. To avoid this issue, we recommend using fresh, unleaded fuel at all times. Adding a generator fuel stabiliser is also ideal if you’re storing fuel in the tank for more than a month. But if you're not using it for longer than that, it’s still best to drain the fuel completely to avoid buildup or corrosion, according to proper generator storage procedures. Taking care of your fuel system ensures your inverter generator always runs smoothly.
Storing Your Inverter Properly
Another often overlooked aspect of inverter generator maintenance is off-season storage. Proper Storing an inverter generator helps keep it in top condition, so it’s important to learn how to do it properly.
Short-Term Storage (Up to 2 weeks)
If you’re not going to use your generator for a week or two, there’s no need to go all out. Just make sure it's clean and kept in a dry, well-ventilated spot. It’s okay to leave some fuel in the tank as long as it’s fresh—avoid using old or partially oxidised fuel as it can start degrading quickly. It’s also good practice to disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starts or drains.
Long-Term Storage (Over 2 weeks)
For longer stretches of inactivity, here are some generator storage tips you should keep in mind. You can either drain the tank and carburettor completely or add a fuel stabiliser and run the generator for a few minutes, so it circulates. Don’t forget to clean the air filter, check the oil (and change it if it’s due), and give the unit a thorough wipe-down. Storing it under a loose-fitting cover in a cool, dry area and away from direct sunlight and humidity will help protect it from dust, rust, and moisture.
Reliable Power with Gentrax
It doesn’t take much effort to keep your inverter generator in great shape—all it takes is a bit of regular maintenance and smart storage habits. From checking the oil to cleaning the air filter, these simple steps make a big difference in ensuring your reliable portable generator continues to provide you with smooth and safe power when you need it.
As one of the best portable generators Australia has seen, Gentrax inverter generators are your best mate for camping trips or job sites. You can also rely on them for backup power in case of power outages. If you’re looking for a quiet generator for your escapades, you can’t go wrong with Gentrax. Visit our website now for more tips or model-specific information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change the oil in my inverter generator?
Change the oil after the first 20 hours of use, then every 100 hours or as recommended in your Gentrax manual.
Can I leave some fuel in the tank when storing my generator?
Yes, but only if you add a fuel stabiliser. Otherwise, it’s best to run the tank dry.
What type of oil should I use in my Gentrax generator?
Check your model’s manual, but most Gentrax generators use SAE 10W-30 oil.
How do I know if my spark plug needs replacing?
If it looks burnt or dirty, or if your generator struggles to start, it’s time to clean or replace it.
Do I need to clean the air filter regularly?
Yes, check it before each use, clean it every 50 hours of use, and replace it if it’s worn or damaged.
