A propane generator needs the pressure and regulator arrangement specified by its manufacturer. A regulator that fits the hose can still be unsafe or leave the engine starved under load.Size the complete fuel … Read more

You can use several generator outlets at once, but you cannot treat each outlet’s faceplate rating as extra generator capacity. Every connected load shares the generator’s continuous output, and each receptacle and breaker … Read more

A generator can run only as long as its fuel supply, load, cooling, lubrication and maintenance schedule allow. There is no universal 8-hour, 24-hour or 72-hour limit that applies to every portable, inverter, … Read more

A generator’s age is less useful than its operating hours and maintenance record. Two units bought on the same day can have radically different remaining life if one runs lightly and the other … Read more

There is no universal generator-to-gas-meter distance that is safe or legal everywhere. The required location comes from the generator’s installation manual, the gas utility’s service rules, adopted fuel-gas and electrical codes and the … Read more

A running generator can become hot enough to burn skin and ignite nearby combustibles. Exhaust components are usually hottest, but blocked airflow, overload or low oil can raise temperatures across the engine and … Read more

A popping generator is usually misfiring in the intake or igniting unburned fuel in the exhaust. The timing of the noise matters: popping under load points to a different problem from one bang … Read more

Most portable generators do not need a separate priming step. Opening the fuel valve and tank vent, setting the choke for a cold start and cranking the engine normally draws fuel into the … Read more

Most modern gasoline generators do not require ethanol-free fuel. Generac specifies fresh unleaded gasoline with at least 87 octane and no more than 10% ethanol for its current portable units, while Honda permits … Read more

Yes. Overfilling a generator can aerate the oil, raise crankcase pressure and push oil into the breather or air-filter housing. The result may be smoke, leaks, fouled plugs, rough running or engine damage.Do … Read more