How To Reset Generac Generator After Oil Change? Generator Helper

Generac is quite popular for powerful generators that even offer up to 15000 wattage of power. But the beastly performance require frequent maintainance- one of these being an oil change. The fact is, changing old oil is essential for any kind of generator. We all know this, right? But, have you ever thought of how to reset a Generac generator after an oil change?

You can reset a Generac in two ways- a full reset, and a partial maintenance reset. Though the user interface may vary among different generator models, the process is pretty much the same.

This article will uncover everything you need to know about resetting a Generac generator after an oil change and tips to make your generator last longer. Keep reading to find out more.

Why Do You Need To Reset Generac Generator After Oil Change?

After every oil change, it is important to reset your Generac generator to clear the “maintenance due” lights. This also resets the counter that notifies you when the next oil change is due.

Now, what is a maintenance due indicator, and how that affects your generator?

Generac generators often feature indicator lights that showcase the generator status, for instance if a maintenance is needed. We’ll get into details about these lights later in this article. But for now know this- you need to reset a Generac generator after an oil change to make it understand you’ve done the regular maintenance.

Also, to maintain your generator warranty, proper maintenance procedures should be followed, including resetting your unit after an oil change and using Generac oil kits.

Generac provides its users with a maintenance kit to help with their Generac generators’ regular service and maintenance. The kit includes oil, filter, air filter, 2 spark plugs, chamois for oil change, funnel, and 2 quarts of synthetic oil. You can buy if from Amazon or look for one in your local hardware store.

How Often Should You Change Generac Generator Oil?

You should do an oil change for a brand-new generator after 25 hours of operation; it is called the break-in period. After that, it depends on your generator’s size, storage, usage, and the manufacturer’s guide. 

For example, a good generator to run in an enclosed trailer or a generator for mobile detailing should last between 50 and 200 hours of runtime before changing the oil.

However, there is no fixed timeframe. Smaller Generac generators will need frequent change, while bigger units may give you peace of mind for around half a year. So, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s guide for specific instructions.

How To Reset Generac Generator After Oil Change?

Now that you know why a reset is required, let’s now discover how to reset a Generac generator after an oil change.

[Note: The process below is a full reset of your system memory. However, this won’t affect the generator’s overall performance.]

• Step 1: Turn your Generac generator into an “OFF” mode.
• Step 2: Press enter to turn it off.
• Step 3: Wait for about 30 seconds after you’ve turned it off.
• Step 4: Now, turn your generator into a “Manual” mode; It will turn on your generator.
• Step 5: Test it by running for about five minutes and see if everything is working properly.
• Step 6: If yes then turn it off again.
• Step 7: Let it sit for about a minute to ensure it is completely off.
• Step 8: Now, turn on the generator and put it back to “Auto” mode.

How Do You Reset The Red And Yellow Light On Generac Generator?

If you own any of the latest Generac generator models, you probably have seen red, yellow, and green lights on the control panel of your generator. These lights are significant and have a specific meaning.

The yellow light indicates a maintenance reminder. Service/maintenance reminders include oil change, air filter change, battery problem, and spark plug change.

On the other hand, the red light indicates that your generator unit has a serious problem and will not run.

And the green light means the device is working properly.

Suppose you see a red/yellow light; no need to worry. You need to identify the problem, fix it, and then move on to resetting the system indicator lights.

Here is how to reset the red and yellow light on your Generac generator:

• Step 1: Press and hold the power button. You will see “Switched to off” on the screen.
• Step 2: Press these buttons in sequence (Up, Up, ESC, Down, Up, ESC, UP, Enter). The screen will show you four options- History, Edit, Maintenance, Dealer.
• Step 3: Using the up and down buttons, navigate to the “Dealer” option and press enter.

Take Note: A passcode might be required to select the dealer. If a wrong passcode is entered, this option will not be available for selection.

• Step 4: Once you enter the correct passcode, a menu with- Display, Test, Dealer Edit- will appear on the screen.
• Step 5: Using the up and down buttons, navigate and select “Dealer Edit”, then press enter. This should be done with utmost caution. Incorrect settings in this section can damage the plugged-in appliances.
• Step 6: Press the up button until you see “Reset Maintenance” displayed on your screen and press enter to select.
• Step 7: Navigate using the up button until you see “Reset Maintenance Yes” displayed on the screen and press enter to select.
• Step 8: Your display should now show “Maintenance RESET, Maintenance RESET”. The maintenance is reset to 365 days.
• Step 9: Press the ‘ESC’ button several times until you see “System” blinking on your screen.
• Step 10: Press “Enter”, you will see “Switched to Off” displayed on your screen.
• Step 11: Press “AUTO” to switch back your generator to automatic mode.
• Step 12: Maintenance Reset is complete. You should see “Ready to Run” displayed on your screen. The red/yellow light will be gone, and the status light will be green.

Tips To Make Your Generac Generator Last Longer

Just like any other machine, regular service and maintenance of your Generac generator goes a long way in preventing it from breaking down. Consequently, it will save you money used on untimely repairs. A well serviced/maintained generator guarantees long life and better performance.

Below are tips to make your Generac generator last longer:

1. Keep It Clean: A generator has several delicate components that need to be kept clean such as air filters, spark plugs etc. If you let your Generac generator build up dirt, debris and grime, it may not work as expected. This may also affect the lifespan of your generator. It is advisable to clean your generator components regardless of how frequent you use them (once a week). If you live in a dusty area, increase the number of times you clean your generator.
2. Change The Oil: Oil change is a crucial practice in the care and maintenance of your Generac generator. Oil is essential for lubricating the engine. Generac recommends changing your generator oil after every 50 to 200 hours of operation for small generators.
3. Do Not Use Stale Gas: Most generator owners tend to forget to empty the gas tank before storing their generator. Storing fuel in your Generac generator for long makes it stale (bad fuel). Stale fuel can damage your generator. Always clean your gas tank and refill with fresh fuel for better performance and longevity of your generator.
4. Proper Storage: To extend the lifespan of your Generac generator, you need to store it in a cool and dry place. Moist places will increase the chances of rust, while dusty places will increase dirt build-up. Generator owners should consider using accessories such as generator tents, covers, or sheds for more protection.
5. Run it Regularly: Since a generator is not a daily use machine, it can stay idle for a prolonged period. This idle state can cause your Generac generator to develop operation problems, which may, in turn, affect the lifespan of your generator. Always start your generator and let it run for at least five minutes. Starting it will ensure it gets lubricated, the battery is charged, and the carburetor is well functioning.

Here Is A Summary Table Of The Maintenance Checklist:

Final Words

It is important to carry out maintenance as recommended in the service schedule to get the best out of your Generac generator. So, service and repairs should be done by a qualified service technician or authorized dealer.

However, knowing how to reset a Generac generator after an oil change can save you time and added expenses. As you can see the process is quite easy and you can do it yourself. Just be sure to change the oil properly, follow the sequence, and you are good to go!