1) CO Detector: If for any reason your RV does not have a functioning CO gas detector you need to purchase and install one designed for use in Recreation Vehicles (follow the manufacturer instructions for proper installation). Test the CO detector for proper operation prior to each RV trip. Inspect the generator exhaust system before starting the generator, and never run the generator set with a damaged or leaking exhaust system. Do not leave windows open when running the generator and do not park in close proximity to obstacles like buildings or other RVs when running the generator set. Be cautious of other RV owners running their generators close to where you are parked, and never sleep while the generator is running.

2)     Preventive Maintenance: The key to a long lasting generator set is periodic maintenance. When it comes to generator sets, we are primarily concerned with two types of maintenance, preventive maintenance and routine maintenance. Both types can add years of life to your generator set. Preventive maintenance is maintenance you perform on your generator before a problem exists. These checks are designed to prevent or identify potential problems that could lead to mechanical breakdown, malfunction, or failure of a component or system on your generator. Preventive maintenance consists of cleaning, inspecting, lubricating, adjusting and servicing your generator. Prior to starting your generator you should, at a minimum, inspect the generator set for any fuel or oil leaks, inspect the exhaust system for proper mounting and for leaks and check the oil level. Make sure the CO detector(s) are operating properly and that all appliances are turned off.

3)     Review Generator Owner’s Manual: It is essential you read your generator owner’s manual and warranty information to determine who is responsible for what when it comes to routine and scheduled maintenance. Often, scheduled maintenance that is required and not performed can void your warranty and shorten the life of your generator set. Monitor the generator hour meter and have the required maintenance performed at specified intervals. Most generator owner manuals have periodic maintenance schedules listed and maintenance logs to record and keep track of all maintenance performed.

4)     Exercise your Generator: One important aspect to generator longevity often overlooked is putting the generator to work. What I mean is exercising the generator set on a regular basis. This exercise routine helps solve several problems related to a generator that sits unused for periods of time. For starters, fuel related problems can occur in as little as one month of sitting idle. This monthly exercise regime removes any old fuel , and lubricates all the engine seals. It also helps prevent carbon build-up. When you exercise your generator it heats up the generator’s windings, and helps eliminate moisture. Exercising the generator not only contributes to a more reliable generator, it extends the life of the generator’s engine as well.

So, what exactly do I mean when I say exercise your generator? I mean you should start and run the generator with at least a 50% percent load, for at least an hour every month. It is extremely important to run it with this minimum rated load. Generators are designed to run with a load on them. Check your generator owner’s manual for load ratings specific to your generator set. And remember, when exercising the generator, it’s always better to let it run longer (2-hour) periods than it is for shorter periods of time.

5)     Generator Operating Conditions: When using your generator, you need to consider current weather conditions. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is correct for ambient temperatures. For carbureted gasoline generators make sure the altitude setting is adjusted properly. Always remember to re-adjust altitude settings when you return to lower altitudes. In dusty conditions it will be necessary to perform air cleaner maintenance and change the oil more frequently. Being aware of the operating conditions and performing the required maintenance accordingly will help extend the life of your generator set.

6)     Storing your Generator: For gasoline generators fill the fuel tank on the RV and add a fuel stabilizer like Sta-Bil. Run the engine and the generator (with ½ rated load) long enough for the fuel stabilizer to get through the entire fuel system. Most fuel stabilizers will protect the fuel system and components for six months or longer. Follow the fuel stabilizer instructions.

Tip: Another method to prevent gasoline from sitting in a carburetor is to install a fuel shut-off valve in the fuel line. When you put the generator in storage, turn the fuel supply off and run the generator until it runs out of fuel.

Change the oil and oil filter on the generator engine prior to storage. Acids accumulate in used oil and can corrode engine bearings, especially while sitting for long periods of time. If you do not plan to start the RV or generator, during storage, make sure the battery(s) is fully charged. If you do plan to start the RV and/or generator while in storage periodically check the water level in the battery cells and keep the battery(s) clean and fully charged.

7)     There are gasoline, diesel, and LP gas generators: Regardless of the type you own following the recommended maintenance intervals and exercising, operating and storing procedures will add years of reliable service to the generator set. Follow all cautions and warnings found in your generator owner’s manual.

Always keep in mind when operating any generator there is the threat of Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Make sure everybody understands how to recognize symptoms of CO poisoning and what to do if exposed to it.

CO symptoms include:

Dizziness

Vomiting

Nausea

Muscular twitching

Intense headache

Throbbing in the temples

Weakness and sleepiness

Inability to think coherently

If you or anyone else experiences any of these symptoms get to fresh air immediately. If the symptoms persist seek medical attention. Shut the vehicle or generator down and do not operate it until it has been inspected and repaired by a professional.

 

 

Happy Camping, Mark

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