Generator run time

Load it. I use 2 space heater, also.

My 2 cents

Best exercise is 1hr, once a month....FULL load. HOWEVER, LOW load the final 5-10 min for cool down BEFORE shutting down

G.Lewis wrote:
Do I need a load on my gererator when I run it every two weeks or so when not in use. I have a friend who says no, but I run my a/c fans when the gen is running...I heard years ago I needed a load...your comments please. It is a gas Onan 5500.

It's best to follow the manufactures process. But, for the most part, you should put the genny under load.

Here's what I do.

- Start genny - let it warm up for ~1/2 hour.
- Put as much of a full load as possible on. This includes 2 1500 watt heaters. Run for ~2hrs.
- Take load of and let genny cool for ~1/2 hr.

My manual states that the genny should run for 3hrs per month, that's what I do.

-paul

G.Lewis wrote:
Do I need a load on my gererator when I run it every two weeks or so when not in use. I have a friend who says no, but I run my a/c fans when the gen is running...I heard years ago I needed a load...your comments please. It is a gas Onan 5500.

No real need to put a load on it every time you run the genny. The main thing with a gas generator is to keep fresh fuel circulating in the system, carb and fuel pump. small engines do not like the ethanol enriched fuel sitting in the system for long periods of time. Load test every several months

Absolutely...at 50% load for about 30 minutes.