Generac Portable Generator Facts

Here are some Generac portable generator facts.  Before you decide on a portable unit, you may want to read this page. 

Circuit breakers provide overload protection Manual and pull start Hour meter to track maintenance requirements Compact design provides unparalleled power-to-weight ratio Low-oil shutdown detects low oil levels to prevent engine damage Low-tone mufflers for quieter operation Heavy-duty hardened steel tube cradle gives extra strength and durability Fold down handles and never-flat wheels for portability Fuel gauge incorporated for at a glance fuel monitoring FHA approved Outlet covers protect control panel from the elements

This is a handy worksheet that helps you to calculate you wattage needs according to what you'll be using the Generac portable generator for.
Wattage Worksheet

Generac Portable Generator Q & A's

• Where is the engine made?   The engines used on the Generac XP and XG Series of portables are manufactured at Generac's factory in Whitewater, WI. The engines are industrial grade engines designed to provide the ultra-quiet, longer-lasting performance required of portable generators. They also run 30-50 degrees cooler, are 5% more fuel-efficient and reduce oil consumption by 25%.

• What is the difference between rated watts and maximum (surge) watts?  Rated watts describe the amount of power the portable generator can produce continuously. Maximum wattage is the power that the generator can produce for short periods of time. Motor starting is a good example of maximum wattage requirements.

• Can it be used it inclement weather?  Generators can be used during a wide variety of weather temperatures, but should be protected from the elements when not in use to prevent shorting and rusting. NEVER run a generator indoors.

• Can I vent the exhaust out of an enclosed area?  No. Never run the generator in the home or an enclosed area. Portable generators are designed to run outside where there is plenty of ventilation.

• Should I drain the fuel when storing the Generac portable generator for over 30 days?  Yes. It is highly recommended that you drain the fuel from the tank and run the carburetor dry. OHVI engines meet EPA and CARB regulations and are less tolerant of stale fuel.

• Does the portable generator need to be grounded?  Yes. For safety, the generator must be properly grounded. If it’s not grounded, you run the risk of electrocution. We strongly recommend that you check and adhere to all applicable federal, state and local regulations relating to grounding.

• How often should I perform routine maintenance?  The maintenance schedule for your portable generator is in the owner’s manual and some models are equipped with built-in maintenance reminders on the control panel.

• What type of gasoline should I use?  Use clean, fresh unleaded gasoline with a minimum 85 octane rating.

• What type of oil is recommended?  Above 40°F, use SAE 30. Below 40°F and down to 10°F, use 10W-30. Below 10°F, use synthetic 5W-30. Oil should be changed after the first 8 hours of operation and every 200 hours of run time thereafter.