The Ultimate Generator Maintenance Checklist for DFW Homeowners

Your standby generator is your family's safety net when the Texas grid goes down. But like any mechanical system, it needs regular care to perform when it matters most. Here's the same 10-point checklist our Generac-certified technicians use on every maintenance visit.

The 10-Point Maintenance Checklist

1. Visual Inspection

Walk around the unit and check for signs of damage, corrosion, pest intrusion, or debris buildup. In DFW, mud daubers and rodents love to nest inside generator enclosures — catching them early prevents electrical damage.

2. Oil Level & Condition

Check the oil level on the dipstick and look at the color. Dark, gritty oil means it's time for a change. Most residential Generac units need an oil change every 200 hours of operation or once a year, whichever comes first.

3. Oil Filter Replacement

Replace the oil filter at every oil change. A clogged filter restricts flow and can cause premature engine wear — especially during extended outages when the generator runs for hours or days.

4. Air Filter Inspection

North Texas dust and pollen are hard on air filters. Inspect the filter and replace it if it's visibly dirty or clogged. A restricted air filter reduces power output and fuel efficiency.

5. Spark Plug Check

Remove and inspect the spark plug(s). Look for carbon buildup, electrode wear, or cracking. Replace if needed — a weak spark means a rough start or failure to start altogether.

6. Battery Voltage & Connections

The battery is the single most common point of failure. Test voltage (should read 12.5V+), clean the terminals, and check that connections are tight. A dead battery means no automatic start when the power goes out.

7. Coolant Level (Liquid-Cooled Units)

If your generator is liquid-cooled (common on larger residential and commercial units), check the coolant level and condition. Top off or flush as needed. DFW summer heat makes coolant maintenance critical.

8. Transfer Switch Test

The automatic transfer switch (ATS) is what detects a power outage and tells the generator to start. Simulate a power loss and verify the ATS triggers correctly, the generator starts, and power transfers to your home within seconds.

9. Load Test

Run the generator under load to verify it produces rated power. This catches issues like weak output, voltage fluctuation, or governor problems that won't show up during the weekly exercise cycle.

10. Exercise Schedule Verification

Most standby generators run a brief exercise cycle weekly (typically 12 minutes). Verify it's programmed, running on schedule, and confirm the engine reaches operating temperature during the cycle.

How Often Should You Service Your Generator?

We recommend a professional maintenance visit at least once a year, ideally before North Texas storm season kicks in (April—June). If your generator runs frequently due to outages, schedule service every 6 months.

Don't Wait for the Next Outage

A generator that hasn't been maintained is a generator you can't count on. Our certified technicians service Generac and all major brands across Collin, Dallas, Denton, Tarrant, Rockwall, and Kaufman counties.

Call us at 972-314-3535 or request service online to schedule your maintenance visit today.