When your power goes out, the last thing you want to hear is... nothing. Especially not from the backup generator you rely on.

But before you assume the worst, take a breath. As an experienced technician, I can tell you that most Generac home backup generator "failures" aren't failures at all. They're simple issues you can often solve in minutes with a few quick checks, saving you the stress and cost of an unnecessary service call. This guide is for homeowners with permanently installed backup systems, as our focus is on providing reliable, whole-home power solutions.

Your First Steps in Generac Troubleshooting

It’s easy to feel a jolt of panic when your Generac generator doesn't kick on like it's supposed to. But many of the most common problems have surprisingly simple fixes that don't require an expert. It's all about ruling out the obvious before you start digging into more complex diagnostics.

We'll start with the most visible clue your generator gives you—the external status light—and then walk through other essential checkpoints like your home's breakers and the unit's fuel source. These are the exact first steps we take on a service call, and they're designed for any homeowner in our California service areas to follow.

Decode the Status Light

Your Generac has a small status light on the outside of the unit, and it’s your first and best friend in troubleshooting. This little light is constantly communicating the generator's health. You just need to know what the colors mean.

This quick-glance table breaks down what your generator is trying to tell you.

Decoding Your Generac Status Light

Think of the status light as the first chapter of the story. If it's green, but you still have no power, it's time to move on to the next checkpoint.

Check the Breakers

Okay, so the generator seems to be running, but your house is still dark. Nine times out of ten, this points to a tripped circuit breaker. Breakers are just safety switches, and they do their job by shutting off power when they sense an overload.

First, check the main breaker on the generator itself. You'll need to open the unit's access panel to find it—it's usually a large switch. If it's in the "off" position or tripped (stuck in the middle), push it firmly to "off" and then back to "on" to reset it.

Next, head over to your automatic transfer switch (ATS). This is the box that intelligently switches your home from grid power to generator power. If you want a deeper dive into how it all works, our guide on how a home generator works is a great resource. Just like with the generator, check for any tripped breakers inside the ATS and reset them.

Pro Tip: A common cause for tripped breakers is "inrush current"—that's when big appliances like your AC and refrigerator all try to power on at the exact same moment. Before you reset the breakers, try turning off a few of those high-demand items.

Confirm Your Fuel Supply

I know, I know—it sounds way too obvious. But you would be amazed how often a "broken" home backup generator is just a fuel-starved generator. It's an easy thing to overlook in a stressful situation. Since we specialize in permanently installed home backup systems, we're talking about natural gas or liquid propane (LP), not gasoline from a portable can.

Here’s what to check:

• Natural Gas: Find the gas valve on the pipe leading to your generator. It usually has a yellow handle. Make sure that handle is parallel to the pipe, which means it's fully open.

• Liquid Propane: Walk over to your LP tank and check the gauge. Is it empty or close to it? Sometimes extreme cold can also cause pressure issues, but the first and most important step is simply confirming you have fuel.

By methodically walking through these three areas—the light, the breakers, and the fuel—you can diagnose and fix a huge number of common Generac issues yourself. If you've checked all these and the problem persists, then it's time to dig into specific error codes or call a pro. But always, always start here.

What to Do When Your Generac Generator Won't Start

There are few sounds more frustrating during a power outage than the silence where your generator’s engine should be. When the lights go out, you expect to hear that familiar hum kick on. If you hear nothing, it's one of the most common—and stressful—issues we see as California generator specialists.

The good news? The cause is often something simple you can fix yourself, not a catastrophic mechanical failure.

Before you jump to the worst-case scenario, let’s run through a quick diagnostic process. We'll start with the most common culprit and work our way through the easy stuff first. This logical approach can save you a lot of time and an unnecessary service call.

Begin With the Battery

Just like with your car, the battery is the heart of your generator's starting system. It delivers the essential jolt of energy needed to crank the engine over. If that battery is weak or completely dead, nothing else matters. From my experience in the field, a bad battery is the #1 reason a home backup generator fails to start.

This is especially true for older batteries, which naturally lose their ability to hold a charge. Industry data backs this up, showing battery-related issues as the top cause of standby generator failures. Considering Generac's massive market share, that's a significant statistic. You can discover more insights about common generator problems from industry experts to see just how often this comes up.

Here's how to check your battery:

• Look for corrosion: Pop the hood and check the battery terminals. Any white, chalky buildup can kill the connection.

• Check the cables: Are the red and black cables tight? A loose connection is just as bad as a dead battery. Give them a gentle wiggle to make sure they're secure.

• Consider its age: A generator battery typically has a reliable lifespan of about 2-3 years. If yours is older, it might be time for a replacement, even if it looks perfectly fine.

Investigate the Fuel System

Okay, so the battery seems good. You can hear the generator trying to crank, but it just won't catch and run. The next stop on our checklist is the fuel supply. An engine needs three things to run: spark, fuel, and air. We've ruled in the spark (battery), so let's check the fuel.

Since we focus on permanently installed home backup systems, we're talking about natural gas or liquid propane (LP), not gasoline.

More often than you'd think, the issue is just a closed fuel valve. For a natural gas unit, find the valve on the pipe leading into your generator. The handle should be parallel with the pipe, which means it’s open. If you have an LP system, head over to your tank and check the gauge to make sure you haven't run out.

Important Note for Propane Users: In some cases, a problem called "vapor lock" can occur. This is where the liquid propane isn't converting into gas properly, effectively starving the engine of fuel. It's less common, but if you suspect a fuel delivery issue beyond a closed valve, it’s best to call in a professional.

Check Simple Connections and Breakers

Sometimes, the issue isn't the battery or the fuel at all—it's a tripped safety switch inside the generator. Before you pick up the phone, take a minute to check the breakers inside the generator's cabinet.

Open the main access panel on your Generac. Look for a large circuit breaker near the control panel. If it's in the "off" position or tripped to the middle, it will prevent the unit from starting. To reset it, push it firmly to the "off" position first, then flip it back to "on."

While you're in there, give the main electrical connections a quick once-over. Does everything look secure? Are there any obvious signs of damage or loose wires? These simple checks cover the vast majority of "no-start" situations we encounter.

If you’ve gone through this list—confirming the battery is strong, fuel is flowing, and the internal breakers are set—and your generator still won’t start, it’s time to call for backup. For homeowners in Los Angeles and Ventura County, our team at RC Generators and Electric can provide expert diagnostics and repairs. Don't hesitate to reach out for professional help when you need it.

Why Your Generator Runs But Provides No Power

It’s one of the most baffling and frustrating situations a generator owner can face. You hear the engine humming away outside—a good, strong sound that tells you it’s running. But inside, the lights are still off, and your home is dead quiet.

When this happens, don't panic. It actually gives you a massive clue.

The engine is running, which means your fuel supply is good and the battery has plenty of juice. The problem isn't that the generator can't make power; it’s that the power isn't getting to your house. Nine times out of ten, this disconnect points to a tripped circuit breaker.

Locating and Resetting Tripped Breakers

Think of a circuit breaker as a safety guard. Its sole purpose is to cut the electrical flow when it senses a problem, like an overload, protecting both your generator and your home's wiring from damage. So, when your Generac is running but not delivering power, the very first place you should look is the main breaker on the unit itself.

Go outside and open the generator's access panel. Near the control panel, you’ll see a large switch—that’s the main breaker. If it has tripped, the handle will be stuck in a middle position, neither fully "ON" nor "OFF." To reset it correctly, you have to push it firmly to the "OFF" position first, then flip it all the way back to "ON."

Your next stop is the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS). This is the brain of the operation, the box that manages the handoff from grid power to generator power. Understanding its role is crucial, and you can learn more about what an automatic transfer switch is in our detailed guide. Just like the generator, the ATS has its own breakers. Open the box, check for any tripped switches, and reset them with the same "off-then-on" motion.

Recognizing an Overload Condition

What if you reset a breaker, and it just trips again a moment later? That's a classic sign of an overload condition. This happens when your home is trying to draw more electricity at once than your generator can safely provide.

This is especially common right when an outage starts. Think about what happens: your air conditioner, refrigerator, well pump, and other major appliances all try to roar back to life at the exact same instant. That huge, sudden demand for power—often called "inrush current"—can easily overwhelm the generator, forcing the breaker to trip as a safety measure.

Here’s the simple, practical way to handle it:

• Shed the Load: Before you touch any breakers, go inside and turn off your central air conditioner and any other power-hungry appliances.

• Reset Everything: Now, go back and reset the breakers on both the generator and in the ATS.

• Power Up Slowly: Once power is back on, give the generator a minute to stabilize. Then, start turning your large appliances back on one at a time, waiting a minute or two between each one. This staggers the load and prevents another surge.

This simple load management technique solves a huge percentage of "running but no power" issues. It allows the generator to stabilize before taking on the heaviest electrical loads in your home.

If you’ve tried these steps and you’re still in the dark, the issue might be more serious. It could point to a faulty voltage regulator or a wiring problem between the generator and the transfer switch. These components are complex and carry dangerous high voltage, making them unsafe for a DIY fix. At this point, the smartest—and safest—move is to call in a professional.

For homeowners in Los Angeles and Ventura County, our certified electricians at RC Generators are ready to diagnose and fix these more advanced electrical faults. If you've run through these consumer-friendly checks and are still without power, contact us for expert Generac generator service you can trust.

Making Sense of Common Generac Error Codes

Your Generac's control panel is its voice. When something isn’t quite right, it won’t just sit there silently—it flashes an error code, giving you a direct clue about what's going on. But let’s be honest, seeing a message like "Overcrank" or "RPM Sense Loss" can feel like reading a foreign language.

Think of this section as your personal translator. We'll break down the most common messages you’re likely to see, explain what they really mean in simple terms, and outline the first steps you should take. Getting a handle on these codes is a massive part of troubleshooting your Generac generator effectively.

The Story Behind an Overcrank Warning

One of the most frequent error codes homeowners run into is Overcrank. It sounds pretty serious, but the meaning is actually straightforward: the generator tried to start several times and failed. The engine "cranked," but it never quite managed to turn over and run on its own.

This error isn't pointing to one specific broken part. Instead, it’s a symptom that directs your attention to the most common reasons an engine won't start, which often brings you right back to the basics we've already covered.

Before you start worrying, take a look at these key areas:

• The Battery: A weak or dead battery is the #1 cause of Overcrank faults. It might have just enough juice to turn the engine a few times but not enough to achieve ignition.

• The Fuel Supply: Is the natural gas valve to the generator open? If you have a propane model, is the tank full? An engine with no fuel will crank all day long but will never actually run.

• The Air Intake: Head outside and make sure nothing is blocking the generator's air vents. Things like heavy snow, a pile of leaves, or overgrown shrubs can easily suffocate the engine.

After you've checked these simple things, you can try to clear the code. Just press the "Off" button on your control panel, wait a moment, then switch it back to "Auto." If the issue was something simple like a closed fuel valve, this should fix it. If the error pops up again, it’s a sign of a deeper issue that probably needs a pro.

Decoding High and Low Temperature Alerts

Your Generac generator is designed to operate within a very specific temperature range. If the engine gets too hot or too cold, it will shut down to protect itself from damage and flash a temperature-related error code on the screen.

A High Temperature warning means the engine is overheating. More often than not, this is caused by something external, not a major internal failure. The most common culprit is restricted airflow. Go outside and do a quick inspection. Are the vents on the front and back of the generator blocked by snow, yard debris, or bushes that have gotten too close? An engine has to breathe, and clearing a minimum of three feet of space around the entire unit is non-negotiable for proper cooling.

Another potential cause is a low oil level. Just like in your car, oil plays a huge role in cooling the engine. If the level drops too low, the engine can't dissipate heat effectively and will quickly overheat.

What About Low Temperature? A "Low Temperature" or "Low Coolant Temp" error is less common here in sunny California, but it can still happen. This usually points to a problem with the engine block heater (if you have one) or the coolant temperature sensor itself. These aren't typically DIY fixes and are a clear sign that it's time to call a certified technician.

When you're faced with an error code, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But many of the most common issues have surprisingly simple fixes. We've put together a quick-reference table to help you translate these messages and take the right first steps.

Common Generac Error Codes and What to Do

Remember, this table is your first line of defense. If a simple check and reset doesn't clear the code, it's always best to call for professional help rather than attempting complex repairs.

Understanding Voltage and RPM Errors

Some of the most intimidating-sounding error codes are the ones that are highly technical, like RPM Sense Loss or Undervoltage. While these can definitely point to complex electrical problems, they sometimes have surprisingly simple explanations.

An Undervoltage error means the generator is running, but it's not producing electricity at the correct voltage. This can happen for a couple of reasons:

• The Breaker: The very first thing to check is the main breaker on the generator unit itself. If it’s tripped, the generator can't send power out to your home.

• A Major Overload: If you try to power too many large appliances all at once when the generator kicks on, it can struggle to keep up, causing the voltage to drop and trigger the fault.

An RPM Sense Loss error means the controller lost its ability to read the engine's speed (Revolutions Per Minute). This could be caused by something as simple as a loose wire or a faulty sensor. While you can certainly do a visual inspection for any obvious loose connections, this particular error code almost always requires professional diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact cause. It’s a clear signal that it’s time to call for help.

When you encounter an error code you can't clear with these basic checks, it's a sign to stop and call an expert. For homeowners in Los Angeles and Ventura County, our team at RC Generators and Electric has the experience to diagnose these codes accurately and get you back up and running safely. Get in touch with us for reliable Generac generator service you can trust.

Proactive Maintenance to Prevent Future Problems

When it comes to Generac generator troubleshooting, the best fix is preventing the problem from ever happening. Think of it like changing the oil in your car—a little proactive care goes a long way in avoiding a major breakdown on the side of the road. Your home backup generator is no different.

While an annual professional service is critical, there are simple habits you can build that make a huge difference. These small actions dramatically improve the reliability of your investment, ensuring it’s ready to perform the moment you need it most.

Keep the Area Clear at All Times

Your generator is a powerful engine, and like any engine, it needs to breathe. One of the most common—and easily avoidable—causes of overheating and shutdowns is restricted airflow. This isn't a mechanical failure; it's an environmental one that you can control.

Make it a habit to maintain a clear zone around your generator. This means:

• No Debris: Keep fallen leaves, grass clippings, and twigs from piling up against the unit's vents.

• Winter Awareness: In colder climates or mountain communities here in California, never let snow drifts bury the generator.

• Smart Landscaping: Trim back any shrubs, bushes, or flowers to maintain at least three feet of clearance on all sides.

This simple routine allows the generator to pull in cool air and expel hot exhaust efficiently. It's the best way to prevent that dreaded "High Temperature" error code during an extended outage.

Understanding the Weekly Self-Test

Have you ever heard your generator kick on for about 10-12 minutes on a perfectly sunny day and wondered why? That’s its weekly self-test cycle, a brilliant feature designed to keep it in peak condition.

This isn't a malfunction; it's a health check-up. During this brief run, the generator circulates its oil, charges its battery, and runs diagnostics to confirm all systems are ready. It's your earliest warning system for potential issues.

Pay attention to the sound it makes. A healthy generator has a consistent, smooth hum. If you start hearing sputtering, grinding, or any unusual mechanical noises during the self-test, it's a clear signal to schedule a professional inspection before the next real outage hits.

The Value of Consistent Care

Consistent, simple maintenance is the secret to longevity. It ensures your system is always prepared and helps you get the most out of your investment. A well-cared-for Generac standby generator has a practical lifespan of roughly 15 years. For instance, many owners of propane-powered units report reliable service for a decade and a half with routine annual servicing that includes battery checks and oil changes. You can discover more about how maintenance impacts generator lifespan from industry reports.

These proactive steps don't replace the need for a professional, but they complement it perfectly. By keeping the unit clear and paying attention to its weekly tests, you handle the day-to-day wellness checks that keep it reliable.

When it comes to the technical work—oil changes, battery testing, and software updates—it’s always best to rely on a certified professional. If you’re a homeowner in Los Angeles or Ventura County and want a worry-free maintenance plan, the expert team at RC Generators and Electric can help. Contact us today to schedule your annual service and ensure your generator is ready for whatever comes next.

Knowing When to Call a Professional

While you can handle many common Generac troubleshooting steps yourself, knowing your limits is just as important. Trying to tackle advanced repairs without the right training and tools isn't just a gamble for your generator—it can be downright dangerous.

Your home backup generator is a serious piece of equipment, blending a combustion engine with high-voltage electricity. Certain problems are clear stop signs, telling you it's time to step back and get a certified technician on the phone.

Red Flags That Require an Expert

If you run into any of these situations, your DIY troubleshooting is over. Stop what you’re doing and call a licensed professional immediately.

These aren't minor glitches; they often point to serious fuel leaks, major mechanical failures, or hazardous electrical faults.

• You Smell Gas or Propane: This is the big one. If you catch a whiff of natural gas or that distinct rotten-egg smell of propane near your unit, don't hesitate. A fuel leak is a massive fire and explosion risk.

• Loud, Unusual Noises: Your generator should make a consistent hum during its weekly test and when it’s running. If you suddenly hear grinding, banging, or screeching sounds, shut the unit down right away. That’s a sign of a major internal engine problem.

• Persistent Error Codes: You’ve tried the basic fixes—checked the fuel, cleared the vents—but the error code pops right back up after a reset. A stubborn, recurring code means there's a deeper issue that needs professional diagnostic tools.

Safety First: Never be afraid to call a pro if you feel unsure or unsafe. A service call fee is nothing compared to the cost of an accident or catastrophic damage to your generator.

Tasks Best Left to a Certified Technician

Beyond those immediate warnings, some jobs should always be left to a professional. The risk and specialized knowledge required put them firmly in the "don't-touch" category for homeowners.

Think of it this way: you might check the oil in your car, but you wouldn’t try to rebuild the transmission on your own. Same logic applies here. For a better sense of just how complex these systems are, our Generac generator installation guide walks through the precision needed from start to finish.

Never attempt to do any of the following yourself:

• Internal Engine Work: Anything that requires opening up the engine block or touching major mechanical parts is off-limits.

• Fuel Line Repairs: Working with natural gas or propane lines is not a DIY job. It requires specific licenses and tools to guarantee a safe, leak-free connection.

• Transfer Switch Wiring: The automatic transfer switch is the high-voltage brain of your backup power system. Getting inside its wiring is incredibly dangerous and should only be handled by a qualified electrician.

For homeowners in California, especially in Los Angeles and Ventura County, sticking with a licensed and insured specialist ensures the job gets done right. When in doubt, making that call is always the smartest move.

When you need expert diagnostics and safe, reliable repairs for your home backup generator, trust the certified professionals at RC Generators and Electric. We specialize in Generac systems and provide top-tier electrical services, from transfer switch checks to Tesla charger installations, to ensure your peace of mind. Contact us today for service you can count on.