A generator won’t stay running when there’s a problem with fuel, air, or electrical flow. The most common reasons are low oil, a dirty carburetor, or bad wiring.
Learn what to check when your generator will not start to avoid wasting time. Fixing small issues early prevents bigger damage and keeps power reliable.
At Grounded Electric, our licensed electricians repair these problems for homes and businesses. Led by Robert “Bobby” Mulholland and Barret Abramow, our team provides safe, code-compliant solutions that keep your generator running right.
Key Takeaways
- Most shutdowns come from oil, fuel, or sensor problems.
- Check oil, fuel, and wiring regularly to stop shutdowns.
- Portable, standby, and RV generators have different issues.
- Replacing spark plugs, filters, or regulators often fixes stalls.
- Professional checks from Grounded Electric prevent future problems.
- Always stay safe. If you smell fuel or see sparks, stop and call a professional.
Understanding the “Generator Won’t Stay Running” Problem
A generator won’t stay running if something blocks fuel, air, or power. Thick oil, moisture, or clogged vents can make it stop.
Barret Abramow from Grounded Electric suggests checking oil, fresh fuel, and wiring before calling for help.
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Process
If your generator won’t stay on, follow these steps:
- Use fresh fuel. Old gas causes stalling.
- Check oil levels and safety sensors.
- Clean or replace the air filter.
- Inspect spark plugs for rust or looseness.
- Restart with nothing plugged in.
These simple checks fix most small issues fast.
Why Generators Start Then Shut Off
Generators that start but stop soon after often have:
- Low oil or fuel
- A clogged carburetor
- Bad spark plugs or wiring
Generator Shuts Off After 20 Minutes
If your generator runs but stops after some time, it may be overheating or have poor fuel flow. Clean vents and check the fuel line to prevent shutdown.
Generator Runs for 30 Seconds Then Stops
A clogged carburetor or a bad low-oil switch can cause short cycling. Sometimes a Generac generator starts, then dies due to a bad sensor or air-fuel mix. Have it checked quickly to avoid damage.
Diagnosing Generator Issues by Model Type
These common generator problems usually need only small repairs:
- Portable units fail from dirty fuel.
- Standby models stop from sensor issues.
- RV generators often have vapor lock or filter clogs.
Bobby Mulholland recommends running your generator once a month for 10 minutes under a light load. This keeps fuel lines clear and engines smooth. Barret Abramow adds, “Most shutdowns happen because owners skip maintenance.”
How Fuel Type Affects Generator Performance
Different fuels cause different problems:
- Gasoline goes bad fast and clogs parts.
- Propane needs clean regulators to avoid misfires.
- Diesel engines rely on clean filters and good compression.
Knowing your fuel type helps find the problem faster.
Fuel and Air Issues (Choke or Starting Fluid Problems)
Old fuel or dirt can block airflow and fuel flow. If your generator starts but won’t stay running, open the choke a little and clean the filters.
Follow this easy care routine:
- Change oil every 50 hours or once a season.
- Replace air filters every 3 months.
- Clean spark plugs every 100 hours.
- Tighten all wiring twice a year.
Routine care costs less than major repairs.
When a Generator Shuts Down Under Load
If your generator runs fine until you connect devices, it may be overloaded.
- Unplug everything and restart.
- Add one device at a time.
- If it still shuts off, the voltage regulator might be weak.
A watt meter helps test safe load levels and prevent future stalls.
Common Safety Mistakes to Avoid
- Never run a generator indoors or near windows.
- Let it cool before adding fuel.
- Don’t force restarts after multiple shutdowns.
- Avoid worn cords or overloading outlets.
Simple safety steps prevent fire and carbon monoxide risks.
Professional Insight from Grounded Electric
Barret Abramow recommends running your generator monthly with a small load. “It keeps everything lubricated and prevents hard starts,” he says.
Bobby Mulholland adds, “Eighty percent of shutdowns come from skipped maintenance, not broken parts.” Their advice reflects decades of experience serving local clients.
Troubleshooting Guide
Try these checks before calling for service:
- Check oil and fuel.
- Clean the air filter.
- Tighten spark plug connections.
- Make sure the carburetor isn’t clogged.
- Restart with no load.
If it still won’t stay on, call a professional for inspection.
When to Call a Licensed Electrician
If your generator won’t stay running, contact Grounded Electric. Barret Abramow and his team can find electrical faults safely and restore performance.
Quick Parts Reference
- Carburetor kit – Fixes stalling
- Oil switch – Stops false shutdowns
- Spark plug – Improves ignition
- Voltage regulator – Stabilizes power
Learn more about what a Generac generator runs off of to maintain performance and avoid shutdowns.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
- Store your generator in a dry, ventilated place.
- Use fuel stabilizers for long storage.
- Test auto-start once a month.
- Schedule yearly professional checks.
These steps keep your generator ready for emergencies.
Preventive Maintenance and Long-Term Care
- Change oil — Every 50 hrs — Prevents wear
- Clean air filter — 3 months — Maintains airflow
- Replace fuel filter — 6 months — Improves performance
- Inspect spark plug — 100 hrs — Ensures ignition
Doing this care and keeping your generator contact Grounded Electric today. dry prevents stalls and extends its life.
If your generator won’t stay running or keeps shutting off, Our team will restore your power and make sure it stays on when you need it most.
