KEEPING YOUR GENERATOR HEALTHY: HOW OFTEN SHOULD IT RUN?

Generators are the unsung heroes of power reliability. Whether you’re managing a commercial facility, overseeing an industrial site, or simply safeguarding your home, your generator is your first line of defence against outages. But like any mechanical system, it needs regular attention to stay in peak condition. One of the most overlooked aspects of generator maintenance is the importance of running it regularly—even when there’s no emergency.

So, how often should you run your generator to keep it healthy? The answer varies depending on the type of generator you own, such as diesel, natural gas, or standby, and its usage.

Routine Operation: A Key Part of Generator Maintenance

Operating your generator periodically is known as “exercising” the unit. This practice helps to:

• lubricate engine components by circulating oil

• prevent fuel system issues like clogs or degradation

• identify potential problems early before they become costly repairs

• ensure battery health and electrical readiness

• maintain overall reliability so it performs when you need it most
  

Skipping this routine can lead to hard starts, reduced efficiency, and even complete failure during a critical outage.

Recommended Exercise Frequency by Generator Type

Diesel Generators

Diesel generators are known for their durability and high-power output, making them ideal for industrial and commercial use. However, diesel fuel can degrade over time and attract moisture, leading to microbial growth in the tank.

Recommended exercise:

Run your diesel generator once a week for 30 minutes under load. This helps burn off moisture, circulate oil, and keep the fuel system clean. Schedule full maintenance annually, including full load testing and oil changes every 100–200 hours of runtime. 

Natural Gas Generators

Natural gas generators are popular for their cleaner emissions and lower fuel costs. Because they’re connected to a gas line, fuel degradation isn’t a concern; however, mechanical wear still needs attention.

Recommended exercise: Run your natural gas generator once a week or biweekly for 20–30 minutes. These units often have automatic self-tests, but manual runs under loads are still beneficial. Also, service it every 250–400 hours of operation or every 6 months, whichever comes first. 

Standby Generators

Standby generators, both diesel and natural gas, are designed to kick in automatically during outages. They often include self-exercise features, but don’t rely on automation alone.

Recommended Exercise:

Ensure your standby generator runs weekly or biweekly, ideally under load. Even if it has a Quiet Test™ mode, manual checks help catch issues early. Full servicing should be done annually, with visual inspections monthly and system checks quarterly. 

Signs Your Generator Needs Immediate Attention

Even with regular exercise, watch for these red flags:

• Difficulty starting or long startup delays

• Unusual noises or vibrations

• Fuel or oil leaks

• Warning lights on the control panel

• Irregular power output
  

If you notice any of these, schedule a professional inspection right away.

A Small Effort for Long-term Reliability

Running your generator regularly is more than just a maintenance task; it's a smart investment in long-term reliability. Whether you rely on a diesel workhorse, a clean-burning natural gas unit, or a standby system for peace of mind, consistent exercise and servicing will extend its lifespan and ensure it’s ready when you need it most.

At Paramount Power Systems, we offer tailored maintenance plans and expert servicing for all generator types. Contact us today to schedule your next check-up or learn more about keeping your generator in top shape.