Warning Signs Your Generator Might Be About to Fail

[Liam_smith]

Hey folks,
what are some early warning signs you’ve noticed that a generator’s about to fail? i’ve heard odd noises and inconsistent power can be big red flags, but curious what else folks have seen. Would love to hear your experiences so I know what to watch for.. thanks

 

[2Brothers_2228]

Hey @Liam_smith
Definitely been there.. a few red flags I’ve seen before a generator gives out

• Weird noises like knocking, rattling, or sudden loud humming usually means internal wear.
• Power surges or flickers ..inconsistent output is a big sign something’s off.
• Slow or rough starts – especially in warm weather, this can point to fuel or ignition issues.
• Visible smoke or fuel leaks.. anything beyond normal exhaust should be checked ASAP.
• Strange smells like burning or strong fuel odors can mean overheating or leaks.

Regular checks help a lot, especially watching oil levels and keeping filters clean. Better to catch it early than lose power mid-job

 

[Cindy Lopez]

agree with the signs mentioned.. another one I’ve run into is random shutdowns even with decent fuel. Usually a heads-up that something electrical is failing. I always keep an eye (and ear) out for anything new or weird.. it’s cheaper to fix early than deal with downtime