Running Generator

[TN-Traveler]

How often should you run your generator? Also do you run it under a load?

[RickO]

We try to run ours once per month for near an hour and under at least 50% load.

Rick

[mikron]

Over the years I have talked to many generator people. Part of my business, we use generators to power some fire sprinkler systems. They all say the same thing, twice a month under load 20 min. Thats what we do, even when coach is in storage. Never have had a problem starting or giving full load power under smooth run.

[RJay]

I took this from the Onan operator's manual.

Exercise the genset at least 2 hours each month if
use is infrequent. Run the genset at approximately
1/2 rated power. See LOADING THE GENSET
(Page 9). A single two hour exercise period is better
than several shorter periods.
Exercising a genset drives off moisture, re-lubricates
the engine, replaces stale fuel and removes
oxides from electrical contacts. The result is better
starting, more reliable operation and longer engine

life.

[AZgl1500]

At our 911 operations center, the big generators are exercised 1 hour at full load every week by a time clock.

Same reasons already mentioned above.

[JC2]

Quote:

Originally Posted by TN-Traveler How often should you run your generator? Also do you run it under a load?

9 times out of 10 when our MH is moving our gennie is on as we generaly run the roof ac/ and fridge on ac. During storage in the winter, we generally take it out for a 1hr or so drive, road conditions permitting, every 4-6 weeks and turn on the gennie. If we don't take it out for a spin, I place about a 1/2 load on it for about an hr.

[wa8yxm]

I was taught 1/2 hour every month under 1/2 load

If you wish to make it easier to remember try this

1/2 Load, Hour Month

Which is closer to how I do it since we full time with membership camping (2 weeks in/ one out) I run the generator while I internet on the 'Move" day.

Found a real nice "Week out" park.

[TXiceman]

The best source of this information is the owners manual. Take the time to read it.

But you want a minimum of 1/2 hour at 1/2 LOAD. You can load it with a couple of 1500 watt electric heaters. Or the heat pump on a day above 40 deg F.

Ken