How Long Will a Generac Generator Run?

Knowing how long your generator will run non-stop depends on a few factors. The first thing to consider is the type of generator you have.

Generac makes standby and portable generators. A standby generator provides power to your whole house or business. It turns on automatically when the power goes out.

Portable generators run only your important appliances. They're intended for shorter, temporary use.

Generac Standby Generators

A Generac whole house generator connects to your home's natural gas line or liquid propane fuel supply. It can run almost indefinitely on natural gas unless the gas line has a problem or a mechanical issue occurs. It will run just as long on propane if you have your home propane tank refilled regularly.

Generac standby generators for business will run on natural gas, propane, or diesel. How long a diesel generator can run depends on several factors, including:

• Generator size
• Fuel tank size
• Average generator load
• Upkeep and maintenance

An authorized Generac dealer will help you find the model with enough running time for your needs.

Generac Portable Generators

In general, a portable generator that holds more fuel will have a longer continuous run time. How long the generator will run depends on several factors:

• Generator size
• Fuel tank size
• Average generator load
• Upkeep and maintenance

Generac has several sizes of portable generators to choose from. The more power the generator produces, the more fuel it will use. Common fuel tank sizes range from 20 lbs (5 gallons) to 1,000 gallons.

Generac portable generators typically run on gasoline.

If a generator uses three gallons of fuel an hour at a 25% load, it may use five gallons per hour at 100% load. With a 500 gallon tank, the generator would run for around 100 hours using five gallons an hour. You could run the generator twice as long with a 1,000 gallon tank.

A well-maintained generator will work more efficiently. You'll get more running time.

How Long Do Generac Generators Last?

The typical lifespan for Generac standby generators is 25 to 30 years. For applications outside of standby, engine life depends on:

• Run hours
• Maintenance cycles
• Installation quality

Generac engines are specifically designed for generators. They will run for around 3,000 hours.

Most people only need to run their generator a few days a year. This is why Generac estimates the average generator lifespan to be 25 to 30 years. The US Energy Information Administration reports that the year-average power outage in 2018 ranged from 1.5 hours in South Dakota to almost 30 hours in North Carolina.

The standard Generac warranty lasts for five years. You can purchase an extended seven- to ten-year warranty. The warranty covers repairs from product defects and parts that need to be replaced sooner than normal.

How to Extend the Life of Your Generac Generator

Pick the Right Size Generator

Generators have a power output measured in watts. The amount of power determines how many appliances you can run at once. Using a generator that's too small for your needs will shorten the life of the generator.

You can estimate the size generator you need by adding up the wattage of everything you want to power during an outage. Keep in mind that appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators draw more wattage when they cycle on. You'll need to add the running wattage and the starting wattage of these appliances to find their total wattage.

Considering how often and for how long you expect to need the generator will also help you pick the right size. If you have frequent power outages, you'll need a larger unit than if you only lose power occasionally.

Choose a generator that can handle all of your power needs while working at no more than 90% capacity.

Yearly Maintenance

Most Generac generators need maintenance once a year. The owner's manual for your Generac generator will give you a complete maintenance list. You can buy the maintenance kit for your unit from your Generac dealer or directly from the manufacturer.

Some of the maintenance items include:

• Changing the oil
• Changing the air filter
• Change the spark plugs
• Check for cracks or instability in the concrete base
• Touch up chipped paint and remove scratches

Following a regular maintenance schedule keeps your generator in top working condition. It also keeps your warranty valid. A professional generator technician can perform your yearly maintenance if you prefer not to do it yourself.

Daily Maintenance

During periods when you're running your generator continuously, it's a good idea to give it a break every 24 hours or so. Check daily for:

• Dirt and debris inside the unit
• Leaks in the fuel and oil lines
• Proper oil level

Inspecting your generator daily will help you catch small issues before they become major problems.

Getting the Most from Your Generac Generator

A Generac standby or portable generator will give you years of reliable power. Keeping your unit properly maintained will give your generator an even longer life.

Vancelectric is your trusted dealer for Generac generators. We've been serving northern Virginia and North Carolina since 1998. Our skilled, non-commission staff will install, repair, and maintain your residential or commercial generator.

We can help you choose the best Generac generator for your home or business. Contact us today for all your generator needs.