I can't believe the amount of rude people and their inconsiderate comments. The guy said he wasn't an expert. He is simply an owner of the generator and wanted to help others with an issue he has dealt with. I for one appreciate the video and appreciate him sharing what he has learned about owning this unit.

@GPOutdoors

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Frankie. I appreciate it very much. Interesting breadth of comments from the very helpful and kind, right through to the opposite. But hopefully, it has helped a few folks out along the way. A lot of comments have certainly helped me out tremendously and for that I am very grateful. Cheers and thanks again good sir!

@mikelkiparski638

5 жыл бұрын

STICK YOUR NECK OUT and some RUDE oxygen thief takes a chop at it TOOO USELESS 2contribute

@martymahem236

5 жыл бұрын

The mentally ill are always drawn to online comments sections where they can hide in their anonymity. So many people are full of so much hatred and bitterness the only thing that makes them happy is the thought that they have made at least one other person's life a little bit more miserable. "Misery loves company" you know.

@williambeck6039

5 жыл бұрын

My sentiments exactly. I believe there are a lot of people (AKA trolls) who have nothing better to do than spend the day flapping their gums about whatever, just to make themselves look intelligent (pun intended) and hijack other people threads. It never ends.

@BIGBADWOOD

4 жыл бұрын

Lots of Trolls on you tube !

If it was more people like this gentleman it would be a better world

@frankornelas9227

3 жыл бұрын

This dude only showed an issue and never resolved it lmao the world would be fucked if it was run by people like him

@davidlozano2130

3 жыл бұрын

See people like you made my point foul mouth and Hellbound

@srice8959

3 жыл бұрын

Damn Right about that.

@allroadsleadtoRoam

3 жыл бұрын

where do you live. on earth most people are like this. i really think folks like you put down all people do to the fact your people are pos. every video on youtube has people like you who comment that people are bad, they are not. stop watching the idiot box and go outside and talk to your neighbors. how fucked up are your people to think everyone is bad.

@davidlozano2130

3 жыл бұрын

@@allroadsleadtoRoam Lord come quickly?

I'm here because I live in Texas, and am tired of getting caught in these severe weather situations and depending on the local government for help.

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

So sorry to hear about you and your community down there. Hope you are safe and finding warmth and food.

@rohaltom

3 жыл бұрын

Power back on here in Houston. I am definitely getting a standby generator after this BS!

@nickonickster1

3 жыл бұрын

Dont get a generac.. you will be let down

@mikecheck1229

3 жыл бұрын

@@nickonickster1 What's a better alternative that you suggest?

@kg7jev671

3 жыл бұрын

@@nickonickster1 How so? Feedback would be great.

Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) not exhaust port. Nice video. 👍🏻

Snow, flannel shirts, and a polite, thoughtful human. So Canadian!

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks kindly Alex! All the best to you.

@doghairdontcarelindaniel7531

3 жыл бұрын

Handsome too.

@NSNorfolk

2 жыл бұрын

We don't send kind words and thoughts to our most excellent Canadian neighbors quite enough. I am VERY thankful for having Canada and Canadians share our northern border! Thank you, good friends!

@klodoen1

2 жыл бұрын

When we're in hockey gear , the whole story changes. Hahaha

@artsmith103

2 жыл бұрын

Also, listen to the temperature of that snow. Sounded like below 20F. Cold for no gloves to clean the Generac deficiency.

Get a “duck bill” one way drain valve - it’s a simple rubber check valve that lets condensate drain in air filters, but won’t let it suck dirty air into the engine.

@GrayLensman51

3 жыл бұрын

Doesn't a "duck bill" valve have to have some pressure to push the condensate out thru the "duck bill" itself? I think the air filter box is operating on negative pressure inside the box "inhaling" air thru the filter and box into the engine intake. I suspect a "duck bill" would not work in this instance.

@Zomby_Woof

3 жыл бұрын

@@GrayLensman51 You could use with a small pump with a limit switch, or even simpler a small cheap pump and a heating coil on a timer. "Frost free" refrigerators are a lie - they just turn on a heating coil periodically using s simple rotary timing switch - it literally just rotates a contactor around and during part of the rotation closes the circuit. ( Side note: Super cheap switch and they last for years and years - until they don't. I had one get jammed and as luck would have it, it jammed with the circuit closed and turned my freezer section into a small oven by the time I got home from work and wondered what the weird smell was. I didn't even replace the switch - just nudged it and it worked fine for another couple years until I moved.) With one of those switches, the heating coil would turn on periodically, melt the ice and run the pump and switch off. Wouldn't hurt anything to run when the plenum is dry. You could probably just use an aquarium pump and let it run 24/7 without a heat source at all - with slight constant airflow you shouldn't have any condensate to freeze.

@koroba01

2 жыл бұрын

@@GrayLensman51 …what you say makes sense but the duckbill rubber is very light and flexible and is long enough to hold a bit of water allowing the weight of the water to dribble out as it collects. The light thin rubber opens easily with sufficient water and closes just as easily keeping out dirt and pesky insects (I am a retired product manager for a light construction equipment manufacturer).

@greatlakespowerstrokefx4

2 жыл бұрын

This right here. It should have had it to start with

@123456bpb

2 жыл бұрын

@@GrayLensman51 It will work as there are heavy pulses of air flow caused by the 2 cylinder engine cyclic intake suction. Good suggestion!

I don’t have a house generator back up system but i learned something from your video. Thank you for taking the time to make it.

This man is genuine. He is meticulous, a real fit and finish man...look how carefully he cleaned up his unit. Listen to him and give him good comments. We need more people like him in this world, Thank you sir, for your well done video. Side note. This is NOT my problem, since I live in San Diego County USA, but we do have very strong Santa Anna Winds, also spelled Santana, and it knocks out our power very often, so Ii use my unit nearly every "wind storm." Thanks again, but yikes, I am glad that I don't have to kneel down in the snow to remove "ice plugs." Warmly Dr. George Whitehead

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks very kindly Dr. Happy New Year!

@vincehughes

5 ай бұрын

Would drilling a small whole in the bottom help ?

@richardbarker2505

3 ай бұрын

😅​@@vincehughes

I'm a factory trained tech on these things and I have to say that over my 20 plus years in the field we never saw this problem till the EPA got involved and asked for certain changes. They asked for a shorter exercise period with the idea that it saves fuel, (about 5 minutes) then asked for a slower speed during that time to cut noise. That one might be a marketing ploy but I know for a fact certain areas have noise limits during non emergency use. Bottom line is if the engine doesn't fully warm up you get condensation, which we never had with the older sets. A hot engine doesn't make condensation so we can already figure the answer is a longer full speed exercise. The quick fix here is to get into the menu and change the speed for "quiet test" exercise and select "off" to get full speed. Next go to the options for how often it runs and change from weekly to monthly. (less cold runs) Last but not least, go out and manually start it for 15 minutes a few times per month to fully warm it up. Hearing through the grape vine you may see new units going back to a 10+ minute exercise option to dry things out internally.

@GPOutdoors

4 жыл бұрын

Good morning Rupe, and thanks so very kindly for the detailed explanation. This makes a lot of sense to me. I will try that during this coming winter and see if that helps. I also had my local techs install the vent pipe heating kit on it as well, so I am hopeful these things will help resolve it. The techs have told me that several customers up in this area have the same issue. Thanks again for taking the time to explain and for your suggestion. Cheers and all the best!

@Guillotines_For_Globalists

4 жыл бұрын

For the newer Generac generators with the lower speed, quieter exercise option, that can be turned off. That is what I did since it was recommended to use full speed for colder climes like here in Chicagoland. It is also interesting to note that the exercise frequency can either be decreased or increased with the newer generators. On the older models it was also fixed to once per week.

@mikecubes1642

4 жыл бұрын

the EPA wants those things because they know it makes the generator not last as long. all environmental laws are made for that reason from lawn mowers to 18 wheelers. the job of the EPA is to slow all production in the US. you dont see any emissions crap on military machines or any jets do you?

@rupe53

4 жыл бұрын

@@mikecubes1642 … Actually there have been changes to military stuff and commercial jets that we're not aware of. Most of it is to get better fuel economy and reduce weight. Of course anything to do with planes has to pass muster with the FAA as well. Not so with most consumer products. The buck stop with the EPA.

@Guillotines_For_Globalists

4 жыл бұрын

@@mikecubes1642 The government is always exempt from the laws they create. The very opposite of our constitutional republic as it was created.

Thank God there are guys like this that can save people a lot of grief,....and money.

Generac offers a cold weather kit. Part of that kit is a small heater that you wrap around that breather hose to prevent it from freezing.

@petewerner1494

3 жыл бұрын

If Generac knows about this problem, then this option should be standard when selling this unit in cold weather areas....... cheep bunch!!!!!!!!

@jb85

3 жыл бұрын

@@petewerner1494 or.....because Generac sells through dealers the local dealers should recommend the kits.

@Joe-sn6ir

3 жыл бұрын

@@petewerner1494 the number of people that need it is much lower. damn...do you need EVERYTHING fed to you???? trying thinking for once. O.o

@JohnLittleJr

3 жыл бұрын

@@petewerner1494 not needed in warm weather. So why charge the customer for something not needed?

Generac needs to redesign that and send service changes to owners. Those things aren't cheap and oil can be a fire hazard.

@ericgruner5614

3 жыл бұрын

I work on these machines on a daily basis. Happens a lot of time in the winter. Do to the amount of venting on the intake side they will actually suck snow into the airbox. It will Melt the snow while running, then freeze. For the most part if you keep the snow away from it this doesn't happen.

@wesman7837

3 жыл бұрын

@@ericgruner5614 I would suggest to owners to build a vented doghouse to protect the units from this problem

@aaronkellar6583

3 жыл бұрын

Don’t buy a generac. Generacs are the most unreliable generators on the market. I’m a fully trained military generator tech who trains on hundreds of different types and brands, don’t do it.

@kathleenmaddox2346

2 жыл бұрын

@@aaronkellar6583 which would you suggest, and why?

@trustme7731

2 жыл бұрын

Sounds like they did redesign it to EPA regs. Hence the problem.

I’m just going to applaud this guy’s efforts to keep that thing clean. 👏

@stankornsey7525

4 жыл бұрын

Could you put in a drain line to help relieve moisture build

@josephrobinson2342

3 жыл бұрын

Ok

@enduser1982

3 жыл бұрын

Not to mention to throw the frozen oil onto the ground..

@surinamel5708

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks bud

@tommytmt

3 жыл бұрын

@@stankornsey7525 that too would most likely freeze. Unless it was a small heated line.

I agree with Frankie about his assessment on this man video all the man tried to do was give some helpful advice no need for anyone to be rude I think what he showed was very helpful and I appreciate I thank you.

@GPOutdoors

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks very kindly Alan. Was all I wanted to offer. Factual truth on it. Cheers and all the best!!

I own a Generac….great tip to know, Thanks👍

You might think about disconnecting the crankcase breather hose from the airbox and putting a filter on the end. Don't forget to plug the hole in the airbox. Your aren't reburning the exhaust fumes to save the environment but the engine will like it better and you wont have an issue blocking the vent.

@Rayzermatic

3 ай бұрын

instead of plugging the hole in the airbox, put a one way check valve in there to drain any condensation buildup so that the airbox doesn't fill up with water.

It's not exhaust. It's the crankcase ventilation. Its allows any pressure in the crankcase to neutralize and any gasses to be sent back through the intake to be burned. The source of the water is from the engine not being run long enough to get hot and eliminate its own moisture. It needs a longer exercise time. DO NOT put any holes in the air box. Dirt and insects have direct access to the inside of the engine

@fliegenmann2562

3 жыл бұрын

Trust Me I think so too! But I would drill a 0,04 inch hole in the bottom... Car air intakes have those too. Or install a one way valve 🤷‍♂️

@drew738

3 жыл бұрын

I don't trust you. source is moist intake air. Crank case water goes out the exhaust.

@trustme7731

3 жыл бұрын

@@drew738 All crankcase vapors, moisture included, goes to the filtered side of the air box and is drawn right back into the intake to be burned again. Been this way since the '60's. The water you see dripping from a tailpipe is not from the same source.

@flynja

3 жыл бұрын

@@fliegenmann2562 I would try drilling install a port then attach fish tank air hose to route water away and use fiberglass door screen to cover the hole if bugs are a problem

@fliegenmann2562

3 жыл бұрын

flynja that sounds a bit fishy.. 🤷‍♂️

Good morning... I'm betting you just saved someone from much frustration. Sharing information like that is worth its weight in gold. Thanks. 😊

@GPOutdoors

5 жыл бұрын

Good day and thanks Edward. I hope it helps a few folks. They are not bad generators overall but just wish they would resolve that one issue. The point of the generator is to be reliable in severe conditions when power goes out, and of course, that's when this happens. LOL. Have to laugh. Keeps me sane. Thanks again and have a great week!

@michaelmactavish1728

5 жыл бұрын

@@GPOutdoors I'm kinda looking at the Kubota SQ and J and SJ lowboy generators plus they have feul and oil guage with low engine oil light and feul gauge and glowplugs wich pretty smart design plus same oil filters used from kubota tractor

Having worked on Generac home standby generators I will agree with the statement that you need to check on them on a regular basis. In the winter depending on the outside temperature and exercise frequency maybe as much as weekly after the exercise to clean out the water and ice. 15 minutes today will save an hour or more later. Give it a good run so the engine heats up to operating temp and gets the moisture out of the crankcase. A 6 minute exercise time is too short.

@JohnRodriguesPhotographer

Жыл бұрын

I worked with a somewhat larger industrial generator. It had a 750 horsepower Caterpillar diesel with twin turbochargers. Doing the routine check fluids and monthly start up, it ran for a minimum 10 minutes. We had a status panel for the generator in the computer room so we could monitor if it was running if there was a problem. Those one light that was labeled in a way that didn't make much sense and we didn't know what it was until one Saturday, generator over crank. I was heading out the door to go home early which was extremely rare. I would let my hourly employees go home with pay before I would take time off and go home and make them stay. As I was leaving I heard the generator tried to start three times and it did not start. I literally ran back into the building badged into the computer room went out the fire exit with the keys and opened up the UPS from and flipped it from generator and batteries to utility power. I went back in looked at the status panel and the light was lit next to over crank! I now knew what that light meant. It took about a week for them to fix that generator and it don't recall what was wrong with it but yeah it would have been really ugly if I hadn't reset the breakers. It would power off a dozen mainframes and probably 80 to 100 peripheral devices. As I said very ugly.

@robertt9342

Жыл бұрын

I am no expert, I just pay the bills. Monthly is what is used in other commercial environments, so that should be suitable for home use.

@waynebinky

4 ай бұрын

Generac knows this test run is too short and doesn't seem to care or they would have put out a firmware update for a longer run time. We're in a cold area and get condensation in the oil cap and the oil gets a bit milky. Generac says it's synthetic oil so it's fine. Why would they say that? Water does not belong in the crankcase.

We National Security and Emergency Prepardness folks were looking for power generators in 1989 for Y2K mitigation. Telephony Central Offices have permanent generators and batteries. Some other common situations only had batteries. You get the drift. One fellow in my travels said he would buy a personal one after the new millinum rush when the surplus cost plummeted. I live 10 miles from Generac HQ.

I am a Generac service dealer in central Ohio and have been installing and servicing units for 17 years. I have seen this problem several times with really cold weather. A few additional comments to what is in the video is that the breather mechanism (not exhaust) is under the shroud that is around the flywheel. This can ice up even without the exposed tube icing up. On the newer Evolution controller generators, I would advise taking the short rubber air intake tube off of the air cleaner cover when running in below 0 deg F weather so that the engine can breath in warmer air from the inside of the generator box. This will help prevent ice from forming.

@GPOutdoors

4 жыл бұрын

Good morning and thanks very much for the helpful advice Ken! I will give it a try this coming winter and see if that makes a difference. I had the technicians come and put the additional heater kit on that vent pipe at the end of last winter. So we will see how both do - again, very much appreciate you taking the time to write this out. Cheers and all the best!

@AzzKicker-bz1cb

4 жыл бұрын

@Kenlynjay Just a curiosity question, but what if an owner of these Generac generator units put like a tablespoon of engine anti-freeze in the bottom of that reservoir??? That should prevent condensation from freezing like that, right???

@Kenlynjay

4 жыл бұрын

@@AzzKicker-bz1cb I guess it would be worth a try but some of the condensation comes from the breather mechanism and comes up through the tube while the engine is running, so it could still freeze up. Part of the problem lies in the engine temp being to low during cold weather. You could try putting a piece of cardboard across part of the air inlet on the right side of the unit when temp is really low to slow the air circulation. Also, as other people have posted, there is a cold weather electric heat tape that goes around the breather tube that will help.

@DwaynePeterson

4 жыл бұрын

Ken I also service Generac but deal pretty much exclusively in portables and refer most onsite standby unit to another guy in town that does mainly standby units. I don't have familiarity with standby unit other than most are propane or natural gas and that they self operate periodically as a self test. I am curious how long that self test runs on the norm. I would think that in a cold climate situation, the unit might not run long enough to cook off moisture. Especially since propane and/or natural gas burn efficiently which usually will equate to more water vapor as a byproduct in the blow by gases and build up in the air box. Another not so good side effect is moisture build in the crankcase. Interesting side note is this unit looks pretty darn close to the 17.5 kw portable save the lack exhaust heat to a carb and exhaust header layout.

@Kenlynjay

4 жыл бұрын

Dwayne, the older units will do weekly exercise for around 12 minutes. The newer Evolution controller units will exercise for around 5 minutes when it is warm but I believe that they are supposed to exercise longer in cold weather since they have a temp sensor in the controller to tell it to do so. The times that the breather ices up is usually when the unit runs for a while in super cold weather, so longer exercise time probably wouldn't help.

Im moving to Canada, this guy is GENUINELY nice and caring...

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks very kindly Alex! Have a wonderful week!

@overout429

3 жыл бұрын

We go to Canada periodically and have found being friendly is a way of life. Course we are from Texas and they may just feel sorry for us. Visit Prince Edward Island. Worth the trip. Rude awakening ......compare the Canadian side of Nigeria Falls and the State side. Daylight and dark.

@XX-166

3 жыл бұрын

Too dam cold

@deborahpinkey1264

3 жыл бұрын

@@overout429 Niagara, not Nigeria.

@Joe-sn6ir

3 жыл бұрын

don't let the door hit yer ass on the way out! goodbye!

Great video that explains the problem and solution that he’s found! I’m not a generator expert but I’ve been a technician for 40+ years and I’ve see these rubber weep valves in the bottom of many air filter housings. It’s designed to automatically open and discharge foreign material at the slightest positive pressure and automatically contract with negative vacuum while the engine is running to allow crankcase purge. It is round at the top and converges to a “vee” shape at the bottom where the two sides form the flap valve. I would not drill and leave an open hole, unless you have one of these rubber weep valves to insert. Hope it was a help!

@talusranch990

Жыл бұрын

Drill a small hole ......that is a solution

Well done sir. I learned something and will be a more educated buyer when it comes time to purchase a backup generator.

When saying exhaust port, he's referring to the crankcase breather. Its function is to introduce any crankcase vapor into the air intake to be burned thus reducing emissions

@commerce-usa

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the added detail.

@joenaylor34

3 жыл бұрын

Why not just vent the crankcase to the atmosphere and dont tell the EPA

@iowapanner2223

2 жыл бұрын

@@joenaylor34 That's how we er I mean some fellows in the 60's and 70's did it on cars. When putting on a custom air cleaner it was a must. Also, you can exhaust it in the vicinity of the out side air intake if you want to burn it, but it gets your air filter dirty faster. I'm looking at getting one of these and it should be interesting to see what can be done with the crankcase gasses.

-25 degrees outside. Canadian: "I should put on my long sleeves."

@michaelrice500

4 жыл бұрын

-45: Alaskans zip up their vests.

@robwatts4623

4 жыл бұрын

-25 ...going to be getting cold soon..still don't need a coat! Lindsay Ontario Canada..

@steiny3353

4 жыл бұрын

@@michaelrice500 Bloody hell !!! -45 ! No wonder the generator is freezing up. I noticed he only had on overalls and a flanno shirt. I was cold just watching this video. He speaks very clearly and well. very easy to listen to. I might be getting a portable generac for camping, but I wont have to worry about THIS sort of cold.

@michaelrice500

4 жыл бұрын

@@steiny3353 You have to be tough in the North, Graham. In fact, I once went an entire month in 1978 in Alaska with no internet! Bloody hell indeed! 🤨

@dfdemt

4 жыл бұрын

Texan from the US: it’s +30°F. I need to put on my long johns, and my thickest Carhartt jacket.

I'm responsible for five Genrac units all around 10 kW capacity. They're used for standby power at radio stations I service in South Western Ontario. Bar batteries failing I've had few occasions when they didn't start and service their duty. I've never encountered the water problem. Maybe because all mine run on propane. If this gentleman has an on going problem I would suggest the answer is a 1/8" hole or two, drilled in the bottom of the air filter housing, put a split pin in the holes with the legs partly spread so they rattle when the engine runs and keeps the holes open to drain but keep the bugs out. The other thing we've done from the start is to have a heater sleeve around the oil filter and one around the battery to counter sluggish starting in the cold of Canadian winter .

@trustme7731

2 жыл бұрын

I think propane and natural gas have much more water in them than gasoline.

@jake733

2 жыл бұрын

The heater sleeve is just to insulate right as u cannot run power to it ?

@ronwilken5219

2 жыл бұрын

@@jake733 No the sleeves are actually heaters. They are connected to the "sample 120 voltage" in the control housing. Installation instructions are supplied with the heaters. They each have a thermostat built into the sleeve so they only heat below about 10*C so they're not on all the time. When the power fails and the generator starts, if the ambient temperature is below 10*C then the oil with be warm and the battery will be more efficient for cranking the motor. The thermostats are not accessible and therefore not adjustable. Hope this helps.

I'm shopping for a standby generator, so this video was helpful. Thankfully, I live in central Texas. We had your weather for a week last February. We pretty much all almost died, more from shock and awe as much as anything else. Both our water and power systems failed almost at once, so we lived like savages for a solid week. Even though your kind of cold is a 200 year event down here, I decided to try and not relive the experience.

Cold weather kit will stop that from happening. Save battery life and prevent hard cold starts.

People may put this generator down, but it has served us well keeping nothing in our refrigerator and freezer from spoiling. As well as staying worm or cool in the summer. Talk shit about it because you more than likely have NEVER used one. This guy gave us a very useful idea and could save a service call.

@kirkstinson7316

4 жыл бұрын

No, I talk shit about it because I service and repair them. Brand new you have a 50/50 chance that they will need warranty work. I've replaced several governor stepper motors on these units, some more then once. And all most all of them will have water in the oil when it's changed due to condensation because the controller only let's it run 12 minutes per exercise. And they've had a spate of bad control boards. Bad to the point that all the guys carry an $800 control in the van because chances are that it will be a bad control at 3 am in a storm when the thing quits.

@okramw1

4 жыл бұрын

You have been very lucky. My engine block cracked within the first six hours of operation. & that's very typical of these units. Best of luck to you.

AWESOME.... I'm in Louisiana... don't think I'd have this issue... but if this were to happen... I can fix it... THANKS to you!!

Thanks! Seems like the Generac engineering dept needs to see this, and address the problem.

@aaronkellar6583

3 жыл бұрын

Don’t buy a generac. Generacs are the most unreliable generators on the market. I’m a fully trained military generator tech who trains on hundreds of different types and brands, don’t do it.

@tonyhemingway7980

3 жыл бұрын

@@aaronkellar6583 What brand would you suggest?

@aaronkellar6583

3 жыл бұрын

@@tonyhemingway7980 literally anything.

@talbertadams6586

2 жыл бұрын

@@aaronkellar6583 WHAT WOULD YOU SUGGEST BUYING THAT WOULD COMPARE IN PRICE?

I don't have that problem nor will I ever have it.When I had my Generac installed the tech advised me to spend $150 extra and have a heating element installed in the case to keep the engine warm when the temperature goes below 30 it comes on automatically and keeps the engine warm no matter how low the temperature goes and the engine fires up in an instant .That was great advise from the Generac tech.

@philllsxga.7737

5 жыл бұрын

Spend an extra 150?? That thing is expensive as it is. I would be on the phone with generac everyday till they fix their design flaw..

@Tsamokie

5 жыл бұрын

@@philllsxga.7737 YAGODATSHITRITE

@jesses1589

5 жыл бұрын

The Tech forgot to say thank you for the Commission he earned on that upsale.

@chadschafer3890

5 жыл бұрын

@@philllsxga.7737 so you spend 8k to install and you worry about 150?

@philllsxga.7737

5 жыл бұрын

@@chadschafer3890 Exactly!!! 8 thousand dollars!! Think about that... That is a lot of money to pay for a flaw...

These things sell like hot-cakes here in Upstate NY. I've installed some myself but never heard of this issue (I don't service them, just install them). Hard to believe a design flaw like this could exist on such a popular item. Good video!

@darrylsouthern1346

3 жыл бұрын

Mine does it with no ice. Gets oil in the air box and drips inside the case. In Mississippi

Generator update: Today finally came when Wired Electric came out and installed a new engine into our 20KW Whole House Generator. The old engine had low compression on one cylinder. The generator was 2 years out of warranty. After calling Generac and sending them the serviceman's diagnose of the engine they deemed it "Manufacture Defect". The original warranty was 5 years. I had the generator 7 years. The new Generac Generators now carry a 7 year warranty. I got a call from Generac telling me they were going to cover the cost of a new generator. The serviceman worked on it from 11:30 to 3:45. He put oil in it and fired it up. It ran great. I ask him how long have he seen these generators run without stopping. He told me over 3 weeks when the power came back on. At that time you change the oil and filter and put it back in standby mode.

@GPOutdoors

2 жыл бұрын

That's great news - worked out well for you!

@bubbatime

2 жыл бұрын

I hope NO ONE ran a generator for 504 hours straight without changing the oil. The oil is flat WASTED by 200 hours and realistically should be changed at 100 hours. A 500 hour service interval will just about destroy an engine.

A clean Generac is a happy Generac. Well done Sir

@MrBugman2525

3 жыл бұрын

Texas needs these generator's

Install a 90 degree plastic elbow pipe in air box breather so it stays above any water that may accumulate

@srice8959

3 жыл бұрын

That’s a great idea. I was going to to say put a drain hole with either a screen or one way valve to keep water out, but yours sounds good too

@peach495

3 жыл бұрын

I've seen different video on this subject where they covered the fact that modifying the breather in any way nullifies the warranty.

@razony

3 жыл бұрын

You would have figured the manufacturer thought of this before hand...no problem. I'll just fix it myself. That's what men do!

@brianmcgovern6119

3 жыл бұрын

@@peach495 Reliable generator... no warranty... reliable generator... no warranty. Lets be honest. If you're dependent on the generator, and it has a habit of icing up and blowing its oil out all over the place, I'm not sure the warranty has any value. If its a toy for you, maybe you're ok with sitting in the dark. I was going to say until the spring thaw, but honestly, the water is still there... so it could be late spring until its warm enough to both thaw the ice and evaporate any collected condensation. The unit really needs a simple drain.

@peach495

3 жыл бұрын

@@brianmcgovern6119 Most people aren't "dependent" on a generator but want it to work when it's supposed to. I get that the warranty isn't going to do anything for you if the unit fails. Nevertheless, I expect the fucking thing to work as designed without the need for me to intervene by checking it every week.

Being a new owner I appreciate the advice.

I just got a Generac Standby Generator installed, and the install tech warned me of this issue. Its nice to see how to check it.

I have one but I have a maintenance agreement with the company. They monitor the unit 24/7. It saved me when we had that cold weather in Texas a few days ago.

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Good stuff Linzie. I have it now as well and it is worth the money. The tech has been able to re-start it remotely a few times for me. Happy you had it during the outages we heard about down there. All the best!

Luckily the people who live in the carribean like me don’t have this issue with our standby gas generators because we have warm weather all year round but this is a good advice for those who live in this type of environment.

You can buy a little potable heater like the ones used in a motorhome they kick on when the temp goes below freezing so pipes and hoses won't freeze. They are like $25 and very tiny it would fit in that box easy

When I saw the Spray Nine I knew you were serious, even Covid craps its pants when it sees Spray Nine, its great stuff!

Thank you sir, seems like Generac could solve that easy enough. I’m getting a quote from Generac soon for my home backup unit in TEXAS (yes San Antonio to be more specific) 😳. I’ve seen more power failures in the last five days than I have in my lifetime here… And I’m 63

@johnnyblaze9217

3 жыл бұрын

nice! Another brand to look into is kholer they make some solid equipment.

@captnmike3260

3 жыл бұрын

We had a heater installed when purchased as per the installer’s recommendation. Also installed the generator in a somewhat protected location reduce wind cooling the unit.

@AJDIYNetwork

Жыл бұрын

I live in San Antone working for audie Murphy. I know what you mean about power outages…. Really an inconvenience!

I install these units, and they are generally pretty good for what you pay for them. The crank case breather has a heater which is part of the cold weather kit. The kit has 3 heaters, one for the battery, one for the oil filter, and one for the breather. The breather heather is only energized when the generator is running. The other two run when the temp is below approx 30F.

@staind288

4 жыл бұрын

WHT good is it if it only operates when it's running? It would still puke oil out until it melts... Maybe still all of it down to the oil switch

@silverbankruptcy

4 жыл бұрын

You got it right! This generator needs a heater. I installed them on my Briggs generator, see my videos.. They work when gen is not running and temp is below 32F or so. Not having it will wear out the engine as the engine oil will be Jello when started in that cold temp. I installed the oil filter heater in my video on a generac and that may be enough, but a heater wrap there may help. Is it possible to drill a drain hole? Anyway good video, KZread critics just complain. Keep up the Good work!

@TheWilferch

4 жыл бұрын

Quote,,,,, " The breather heater is only energized when the generator is running." This has to be the most idiotic design... if it's true. Truly amazing. For a generator that is supposed to work in emergencies.

@silverbankruptcy

4 жыл бұрын

@@TheWilferch That cant be true. The whole purpose is to ensure start up. Once running the engine heats itself. Watch my generac video with a friend. There was an electric always hot bar to connect power for the oil heater. I believe that the breather heater connects to that too. They come with a temp sensor that only allows electricity to flow when under around 32F.

@TheWilferch

4 жыл бұрын

@@silverbankruptcy ,read the original poster's statement ( Taylor Sutherlan), that I am simply quoting....so I still stand by my statement...it is a most idiotic dessign if this is true. We don't have such pre-heater complications on PCV valves on cars...and they run in severely cold weather.

Not sure why there’s so many rude comments. If I lived up north and had a generator, I’d be glad if I saw your video and got mine going again in the middle of winter.

Snowmageddon 2021 in Central Texas brought me here for research into a home power back up system.

@deeznutz5844

3 жыл бұрын

Same. Will not go through that againz

@RemoteCamper

3 жыл бұрын

You guys need to think HEAT. Even if its a propane jet baser type. Look into a Buddy Heater (double element). Just keep it around...

I've had a generac generator for 6 years and absolutely no issues. I have the oil changed every three months. I totally recommend this generator.

Bought a 22kw 3 years ago and I am very happy with it so far. I've only had to run it for 9 hours in the Texas 100 degree heat once but it kept the house cool and freezer cold.

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Good stuff! Cheers!

It's really the crankcase breather. I would put a small hole opposite of the breather hose at the bottom of the cover. It should be enough to drain the condensation but not let anything large enter the air filter.

I just bought a home with this unit, in a cold climate. This is GREAT to know! Thank you!

Excellent for all of us in cold weather climates using this Generac generator. Great and well done educational videos. Thanks you from Colorado.

If as someone said that is a crankcase vent, it may have two functions, one to warm the air and also to vent the crankcase, I would put a small tube to elevate the exhaust higher in the air intake to alleviate the problem or drill a small hole to run off water. I have installed these units and they perform quite well not saying other manufacturers don't have good units. I do appreciate knowing about this cold weather issue.

@michaelrice500

4 жыл бұрын

Got it in one, Thomas.

Excellent video, thank you for taking the time to make it.

@aaronkellar6583

3 жыл бұрын

Don’t buy a generac. Generacs are the most unreliable generators on the market. I’m a fully trained military generator tech who trains on hundreds of different types and brands, don’t do it.

@horsepowerjunkie9040

2 жыл бұрын

@@aaronkellar6583 Hey Aaron, what brands would you recommend that run on natural gas?

@davelevy4394

2 жыл бұрын

@@aaronkellar6583 I don't know about all that. Mine is 18 years old, original battery, only have had to do routine maintenance, no issues. This is in Central Maine, where we lose power all the time, and not for just a few hours, but sometimes for 2 weeks depending on the storms.

Thank you sir. Your kindness, information and advice is very appreciated and valuable. A knowledgeable gentleman and a Canadian 🇨🇦 of course.

@GPOutdoors

Жыл бұрын

Happy Holidays and all the best!

I have a Generac 20kw and live in Atlanta - and have had NO PROBLEMS. Owned it since May 2012.

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Good stuff!

The exhaust port is actually a crankcase breather. Blowby from the engine is routed into the air intake to be burned in the engine. Since blowby has a high moisture content from the combustion of fuel and air it will condense and freeze. You may want to ask Generac if they offer a cold weather kit that warms the intake air to prevent the moisture buildup. I have an Onan genset and it has a cold weather kit installed for issues like his.. Otherwise very good video, many thanks!

@edmckinney8457

3 жыл бұрын

I've been repairing power generation equipment for 45 years in the Industrial world . A friend wanted me to recommend a generator brand for his own use . I strayed away from the reliable brands I knew and bought 2 each 15 KW Generac's , one for him and one for myself because of the low price . Both units required major repairs costing more than half the original price in less than 2 years because of circuit board failures . Spend the money to buy a Onan or Kohler or go with a cheap Predator brand . I'm stuck with this Generac hoping to recover my losses and eating crow for ever recommending them ....

@NHseacoast

3 жыл бұрын

Ed Mckinney Ed Doesn't Generac have a 5 or 6 year warranty's and is this issue covered? Id contact the manufacturer.

@foghornleghorn8536

3 жыл бұрын

@@edmckinney8457 Thank you for the valuable advice.

@edmckinney8457

3 жыл бұрын

NHseacoast 1 year warranty ..

@NHseacoast

3 жыл бұрын

Ed Mckinney I’m sorry To year that Ed where did you buy your most have “For a period of three years from the date of original sale, Generac Power Systems, Inc. (Generac) warrants that its standby generator will be free from defects in material and workmanship for the items and period set forth below.This Scheduled Maintenance should be performed by an Authorized/Certified Generac Dealer” you can get 5 year warranty on certain promo days too.

When he says "exhaust port" he really means the breather port of the crankcase. Just like your PCV valve on your car, if it isn't allowed to vent that pressure build up in the bottom of the engine, something's gotta give. In his case it blew out his dipstick and made a mess. I have also seen (in other engines) that it can push the oil seals right out of the lock and then you have a real major problem. This is something Generac should address with some kind of heating element or something. Especially if they are selling in that kind of cold region.

@joebessette6565

4 жыл бұрын

I also thought about drilling some holes as a solution when watching this. I would have to look closer but seems like a sound idea to me.

@joebessette6565

4 жыл бұрын

@Phil Perri For sure, probably help you to not void your warranty as well

@williamgleaves1954

3 жыл бұрын

Don't forget about government energy savings mandates! HA! I'm guessign it has no heater at all.

That is the most Canadian thing I've seen all year! Thanks for the video, I am considering a Generac for my South Carolina home. You just sold me on the concept with your video. Thanks for being so nice, Canada!

Huge recall this past week...it did not give details, but I'd be willing to bet that it is about this very problem. Thanks for posting and perhaps getting the attention that this needed,

Thanks for your help! Once again things require MAINTENANCE! Body, car, home, etcetera!

Great video, simple to understand and I like this guy’s look.

This is a great example of why you follow the directions. Both Generac and Kohler, require you install a Cold Weather Kit in climates like this. Part of the kit is a small electric heater that wraps around that exact hose that he's having a problem with, and it prevents exactly his problem.

Pour a little RV antifreeze in reservoir to stop freezing - exhaust pressue should be able to displace liquid. As video suggests, it is always a good idea to routinely inspect your backup system to ensure operation when it is needed.

I like you. I don’t know you, but I like you. Thanks for putting in the effort to train me.

Unit is a one size fits all good for Florida where it is warm good for Northern Canada where it is cold. This shows a small flaw for colder places the comments here show some of good solutions. Thanks for the posting this problem and thanks to the people who offered solutions in the comments. You have helped me out.

Great video. Always do preventive maintenance. Especially if you're getting heavy usage. At least once a week.

You did well identifying the problem .now you need video with a fix . drill a hole in bottom of air box install a 1 way drain valve and water will empty soon as engine shuts off .not freezing and plugging the manifold pressure port. good job Gp .bet you saved people a lot of service calls .and sitting in the dark cause they dont know whats wrong.

I feel like I'm on an episode of this old house. THIS GUY IS FANTASTIC ! I want to go Live in 🇨🇦. THANK YOU SR.

Very recent Generac owner in NC. This will be the first winter with my unit. The power grid here is fairly stable and winters are not usually too severe; so I don't expect this to be a problem, but it is good information to have. Thanks for posting!

@flaminraymin8

4 жыл бұрын

Jeff, you have to remember your unit will "exercise" itself once a week and you still may have this issue result. Please be watchful. This is a bad design flaw.

@jeffmaness7683

4 жыл бұрын

@@flaminraymin8 Okay, thanks, Ray!

I just ordered one and we live in a cold climate. This is extremely valuable information! Thank you!!!

As a generac installer i'd definitely suggest lengthening the exercise time to 15-30 minutes. The generator should bake off all that moisture in the air box when it runs and not have enough moisture to cause this. Another option is to extend the shutdown after power restoration. These are dealer controlled options that you would have to have them set.

@markhonea2461

Жыл бұрын

Is this issue addressed in the owners manual? Under the "Most important things you need to know" category? Is that 'back programming' something that the average homeowner would normally be aware of? Are there reputable dealers/installers that set these parameters according to environment conditions for that area? Do you? People want this unit so they can be prepared. Let's say this exact problem arose to a unit far from civilization, in the dead of winter naturally. But the unsuspecting owner did not have access to motor oil. At that point it would appear the $15k they spent was an entire waste of money. Oh sure, just drive somewhere and buy oil. WTF? Take that $15k, drive somewhere and get a hotel room. I assure you that I do not hold you or any other installers or service personnel responsible for such a poor level of forethought in the design . That would be the generac engineers, who unbelievably left this GIANT hole in their concept of reliability. It would be as if I designed a refrigerator that worked perfectly fine, until the hottest days of the year came around. Oh, you didn't read the fine print in the owners manual and how to prevent this ? Too bad. That's how we made it, and it's what you bought. Yeah, no. I would not sell, nor buy, anything like this 'brand new boat with a factory designed hole in the hull'.

@RealityCheck1965

Жыл бұрын

My authorized Generac installer says the max weekly jog is 7 minutes. I didn't believe him, so I phoned Generac. Same reply with a suggestion we manually exercise the 22K Natural Gas Generator for 20 x 30 minutes weekly. That does not make sense to me.

@paltro3268

Жыл бұрын

@@RealityCheck1965 mine ones 12 minutes 1X a week.

@waynebinky

4 ай бұрын

Nope, no option to extend this on our Generac 20KW unit. I looked and finally called them. They know best...

I have a Generac 16KW, older though from 2005. I never knew of this issue, but I live in NJ and not as cold as Canada. It has worked without issues for 8 days when we had a power outage during Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The only advice I will give any Generac owner --I was told this by their technical helpdesk is to shut it down once a day for 5-10 min and check the oil level. And yes, you may need 1/5 to 1/4 quart per day. So keep a few extra quarts of oil (I just store 1 gallon when on sale at Walmart). Good for 2 years of oil changes. And I also think it is worthwhile service kit on hand (oil & air filters + spark plugs). Besides that, I also keep 2 spare oil filters on me so I can change the oil after 8 days of running as per recommendation.

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much! Some great helpful advice for folks. Have a great week!

Sheesh that's a fire waiting to happen right there. Oil mist and vapor flying all around in an enclosed cabinet. I'm sure it runs quite a while until the low oil alarm trips. As others have suggested, you need to relocate that PCV breather to another location on the intake or just let it vent into the atmosphere. Letting this happen to many times will eventually blow out an oil seal as quite a bit of blow by and expansion pressures are building up in the crankcase. Thanks for making this video to alert others to the design problem.

I have one. And have had it for yrs. works great. No problems. It’s a 14kw. Super unit. Love it

I was grateful for finding this video since I live in WNY. The temperature was zero or below each night for several days and didn't rise above freezing for over two weeks. After reading this I immediately checked my generator. Thankfully there is absolutely no evidence of frozen condensation. I will continue to be diligent of this possibility over the next weeks of winter. A week ago, however, I discovered 36" of snow drifted over the end vents. After clearing that I decided building deflection walls on either side but allowing for proper ventilation would be an appropriate summer project. Before starting the generator 2 years ago I had built a roof over it to protect from snow and ice sliding off my barn roof. That has proved to be important, but now need to attend to protection for the side vents. Thank you for this valuable video.

@AJDIYNetwork

Жыл бұрын

Thank for the tip. Having one installed within the next two months under a carport in my home in Binghamton. I will look into protecting the sides, but still allowing good air circulation.

@MariktheWolf

Жыл бұрын

Fredonia here...

I live in Canada and thinking about one of these units. I have a portable Honda standby but not automatic. We are not home for several weeks in the winter and power is essential to keep the pipes from freezing and the freezer freezing. Thanks, very good video and I will keep this in mind.

I had a similar issue with my 20kw Generac gen as well the first winter we had it. Found the winterizing kit eliminates the issue quite good. Still have to check it from time to time, and no issues since. There is a low heating 3rd party attachment you can get to put in the air filter container.....very small and does a great job.

@blueboat9581

2 жыл бұрын

Does your cold weather kit have a air filter warmer? Just order a generac 24kw and it's a 3-6 month lead time but I am getting the cold weather kit. Home depot rep didn't explain what's in the kit.

Excellent video. Thanks. I'm having a 24kw Generac installed in the next few weeks and I wasn't aware of this issue.

Here in San Antonio and this past week has been interesting. Have house wired to our 6500 gen, glad we prepared, but will be adding one of these ourselves this summer before hurricane season to run central A/C. Great video and thanks for the info!

This confirms the comments I have heard from other Generac users up here in Ontario cottage country -- namely "Buy a Kohler". Great channel, always enjoy watching! Keep it up.

@GPOutdoors

5 жыл бұрын

Good morning M. Well it certainly gets a little frustrating sometimes.Overall they are good units. Just wish this didn't happen. But I have a few good solutions from subscribers now that should fix the problem. Cheers and have a great week!

Excellent video! I'm going to be buying a Generac generator for my cabin in northern Wisconsin. Since Generac is made here in Wisconsin it was an easy choice. Thanks for posting!

I have a Generac 14 kw and this happened to me today and I wasn't sure where to look for the problem. This video was right on the money, I removed the ice block and problem solved. I will be checking this regulary from now on. From Nova Scotia Canada, -24 C / -11F with high winds and blowing snow and a power outage... not a nice day to be working on a generator! Thank you very much for posting this video, it was spot on.

Add a 5W heating element at the PCV port to address the design flaw.

@HRHDMKYT

3 жыл бұрын

Don’t you wish Generac would improve their design to add these small modifications you describe, rather than leaving the onus on the buyer to gerry-rig a solution to a blatant design flaw? It’s not like they don’t know that users will more likely need this generator during cold weather when the power is most likely to fail. Sigh.

Looking at all that snow and issues that arise from extreme cold make me glad I’m from Texas.

@JeffMTX

3 жыл бұрын

me too eh, its good to be a hoser from tx

@michaelholt3721

3 жыл бұрын

J M hhhh

I have had my 22kw for 4 years with no issues. Best investment I ever made.

@Less1leg2

5 жыл бұрын

you don't live in northern ontario do you. its freaking cold

@mattb9444

5 жыл бұрын

I live in Austin , would this be worth a buy for a 22kw?

@99aace

5 жыл бұрын

@@mattb9444 , yes

Very helpful! Thank you!! God bless you and your family! God bless America and her people!!

That’s not the exhaust port,it’s the crankcase breather.

@krodkrod8132

3 жыл бұрын

In Canada its a crank case exhaust port.

@johnwhitehead5457

3 жыл бұрын

May I suggest, for a reoccurring problem, relocate crankcase vent up higher so water condensate can't plug the vent.

@dmohr9294

3 жыл бұрын

@@johnwhitehead5457 makes sense, but it might be on pupose to keep the air filter from soaking up water & then later freezing solid

@dmohr9294

3 жыл бұрын

Probably even a drain tube will create ice & clog....

@jacobk4412

3 жыл бұрын

Took me forever to figure out why the exhaust would be venting into the intake before I realized it's the breather. Lol

Agreed with anyone suggesting the water should be weeped or drained away from the air box. Also some supplemental heating will help. Thanks for the video Sir. A genset is a critical part of our existence.

@randycrump5464

3 жыл бұрын

I would just drill a 1/16 hole in bottom of filter box so water would leak out and not build up like I have done on others, it works. Better than always having to take it apart and clean it out.

@wesman7837

3 жыл бұрын

@@randycrump5464 wouldn't it just suck unfiltered air through the hole?

@timsager6153

3 жыл бұрын

Randy Crump Oh well, little won't matter in the big picture.

@trustme7731

2 жыл бұрын

@@randycrump5464 What about all the ice build up inside the cabinet? Running the engine for an hour is the ONLY solution.

@AzzKicker-bz1cb

2 жыл бұрын

@@trustme7731 Just a possible suggestion, install a one way valve that will only open when the engine is not running, pulling air through the filter box, yet will allow the water to drain out of the filter box upon shut down of that generator. It would need to be a port large enough to allow the water to drain without freezing inside the drain opening causing the same issue. Maybe a 1/16 hole isn’t large enough to allow a lot of unfiltered air to flow through the air box(filter box), but if there wasn’t that concern, then the engineers would have made drain holes in the filter box! Maybe the pressure exhaust port needs to be moved higher in the filter box to keep it out of the reach of condensation build up!!!

Thanks for the info! Considering getting one here in Louisiana. Even though I won’t have the frozen reservoir problem, I still found it very informative from a preventative maintenance point of view.

@GPOutdoors

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks and best of luck!

@latreciafrancis9092

2 жыл бұрын

@NOLAgame Did you purchase one, yet?if so, how's it working out for you? Is it worth it?

Very useful tip, I'm contemplating buying a Generac this spring. Thanks a lot for this video.

Thank you for the great information and video. Something interesting to know newer cars today have heated crankcase ventilation systems so that don't freeze up.❤

Great tips! I have the same 16kw gen set works great. I live in a very rural area at 1300 feet above sea level. Several power outages per year sometimes for 3-5 days. FYI when ever you open the generator cabinet always 1. inspect battery for swelling from overcharging. 2. Inspect wires & terminals for rodent damage and corrosion. 3. Check battery voltage on the panel & with a multimeter. 4. Check battery charging voltage & amperage.

@GPOutdoors

5 жыл бұрын

Good day Sean. Thanks for the great tips! Cheers and all the best!

Whenever it gets real cold here's a little trick that I have used in the past to keep my boat engine compartment extra warm in the winter when it gets real cold. Get yourself a 40 or a 60 watt light bulb it has to be the good old-fashioned kind that puts out a lot of heat. Just run yourself a extension cord and plug-in whatever you're going to use the power your light bulb. I use an old-fashioned drop light.It's the kind that the mechanics used to use and you can pick them up pretty cheap. Or you can get yourself on old lamp. Just make sure it's not touching anything. And when you know the temperatures are dropping just plug in your light and you're good to go. One of the good things it does not require a lot of electricity as would a electric heater. Thank you for the information on this.I've been thinking about getting the exact model that you have and where I'm at we do get some pretty cold Winters. Thank you for sharing your experience with this.

@GPOutdoors

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks David. I appreciate the suggestion. I have all 3 heating kits on it now so will see how this coming winter works out. Good luck and all the best!

Great video saving a lot of headaches to many generac generator owners.

I am so glad that you posted this and that I watched this. I was looking at one of these. Now NO WAY! I will be looking at other brands. Thanks again.

I have a newer model Generac stand by generator without that problem. I'm in west part of Tennessee where it generally doesn't get nearly that cold for a long time like up in Canada where he is. Thanks so this nice helpful man for sharing his knowledge with us.

Nice video GP! I agree with you, generac should install the fix for free, especially since it is a known problem.

Outstanding video. Thank you for taking the time to share you're experience.

Thanks for making the video - good to know!. Glad it blew out the dipstick and not sideways out a gasket! I'd put an extension on the port that got plugged and raise it up abit as well as check regularly. Now, all I gotta do is get enough $$ to BUY one for my home!