Change generator oil & filter
Old oil gels in the cold and is the most common cause of a no-start in an outage.
How to do it
This task takes some experience. If you're not sure, a licensed pro can handle it quickly.
Common questions
How often should you change generator oil & filter?
Once a year. Best in fall.
How much does it cost to change generator oil & filter?
Typically $30 to $80 in parts and supplies. Skipping it risks roughly $1,200 in repair or replacement costs.
How long does it take?
About 1 hr.
Can I change generator oil & filter myself?
Usually yes, if you're comfortable with basic home repair. If anything looks unfamiliar once you open things up, it's reasonable to call a pro.
Which of these does your home actually need?
Answer a few questions about your home and HomeGuard builds your personalized maintenance schedule — the right tasks, at the right time of year, for your appliances and climate.
Build my free scheduleMore electrical maintenance
Run generator test under load
Every month · 20 min
Professional generator service
Once a year · 2 hrs (pro)
Check fuel supply & stabilizer
Twice a year · 20 min
Test generator starting battery
Once a year · 30 min
Inspect electrical panel
Once a year · 1 hr (pro)
Test GFCI & AFCI outlets
Every month · 15 min