Official Generac parts

Generac manufactures generators, lawn and garden equipment engines and power washers. Below are some notes for the most common problems that can happen with these products and the replacement parts needed to fix them.

Solutions to generator and small engine problems

1. The generator's battery dies repeatedly—When a generator's battery fails to hold a charge, it's typically a symptom of a failed charging system. If the battery tests well when taken out of the generator, the issue may be with a bad voltage regulator or alternator.
2. The generator doesn't start—When the engine fails to start, this is often caused by a fuel system failure or a loss of spark to ignite the fuel. The most likely points of failure are the generator's spark plug, carburetor or ignition coil.
3. Mower engine runs rough—Before assuming a faulty part, check that the tank has fuel and the low idle setting is correct. If there's fuel and the low idle setting is correct, the problem could be damage or misalignment to the spark plug, electric clutch, PTO shafts or crankshaft.
4. Mower engine backfires—Backfiring can be caused by several things, including water in the gasoline, no fuel and poor fuel mixture settings. Also, the carburetor fuel solenoid, the kill switch, key switch, fuses and engine valves could be damaged or malfunctioning.
5. Mower engine dies at high idle—This can be caused by fuel system problems. Check that the carburetor fuel solenoid, key switch, safety interlocks, spark plug and fuses are in good condition and set correctly.

Troubleshooting pressure washer components

1. Engine doesn't start—The gasoline engine on these pressure washers can fail to start because of a fuel or an electrical system fault. If the engine has fuel and a good battery, check the spark plug, ignition coil, electrical wires, carburetor and fuel lines.
2. Engine starts and then dies—This can happen if an initial supply of fuel to the engine is interrupted. This can be caused by a gummed-up carburetor or a clogged fuel filter.
3. Pressure washer is leaking water—This can occur if the water gets hot enough to trigger the thermal release valve, which prevents overheated water from damaging the plastic parts of the washer. Bad seals in the pump or pump assembly also commonly cause leaks.
4. Pressure washer's soap injector doesn't work—If the pressure washer has a supply of soap and the injector fails to add it to the water, you may need to replace the chemical injection kit to fix this problem.
5. Pressure washer lacks pressure—A loss of water pressure is usually caused by a faulty pump. Replace the pump to remedy this problem.