DIY guideGenerator

Run the portable generator under load and change its oil

Give the generator a real run with something plugged in, so you know it works before an outage, and change its oil when its manual says.

8 steps

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Roll it out to its spot outdoors, well away from windows, doors and vents.
Never run it in a garage or a shed, even with the door open.
Check the oil on the dipstick and that it has fresh fuel, then start it and let it warm up for a few minutes.
Plug a heater or a work light into it with an outdoor cord, and let it run with that for about half an hour.
Unplug the load, turn it off and let the engine cool before you touch the oil.
Set a pan under the drain plug, take out the plug and the oil cap, and let the oil run out. Some tip on their side instead: follow the manual.
Wear gloves, and keep used oil off your skin.
Put the plug back, pour in the oil the manual names up to the full mark on the dipstick, and close the cap.
Pour the used oil into a sealed jug and take it to a garage or depot that takes it.
If it won't start, surges, smokes or leaks, ask Handyman for a small engine repair shop.

Handyman says: Won't run right? I'll find a repair shop.

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