The Do's and Dont's of Generator Performance

Summer is here! Ensuring the peak performance of your Cummins RV generator is essential for a seamless travel experience. Understanding what maintenance tasks to carry out at each service interval, and knowing a few best practices for operating your RV generator will make a huge difference in performance and longevity.

As we gear up for the busy travel season, here are some Do's and Dont's for RV generator performanc

DO: Keep your generator clean

Wipe your generator periodically with a clean cloth.

DO: Exercise your generator regularly

Not running your generator for extended periods of time (even as little as 30 days) can cause performance issues. Run your generator at 50% capacity for two hours once every month.

DO: Turn off all appliances before starting your generator

This will help ensure the best possible long-term performance.

DO: Make sure that clean fuel is used

Using clean fuel is the most important factor for proper generator performance. Treat the engine of your Cummins generator with a good grade of regular unleaded gasoline.

For diesel generators, use any of the following ATSM-certified fuels:

DO: Check the operator's manual for the periodic maintenance schedule 

DO: Make sure each operator is familiar with important safety precautions

Learn more about the safety precautions for your Cummins generator here: https://www.cummins.com/na/generators/home-standby/generator-safety

DO: Check the exhaust system regularly 

Check for damage or leaks; make sure the exhaust pipe extends out at least one inch beyond the vehicle's perimeter.

DO: Change your fuel filter

The fuel filter is an often-forgotten part of any engine. Your generator has one too. It removes bits of debris from fuel to prevent clogging the carburetor jets. Over time, the fuel filter collects enough material to become plugged, which restricts fuel flow and reduces the generator's power delivery. Be sure to change the fuel filter on a regular maintenance schedule.

DO: Change your fuel filter

The fuel filter is an often-forgotten part of any engine. Your generator has one too. It removes bits of debris from fuel to prevent clogging the carburetor jets. Over time, the fuel filter collects enough material to become plugged, which restricts fuel flow and reduces the generator's power delivery. Be sure to change the fuel filter on a regular maintenance schedule.

DO: Install a running hour meter

If your generator doesn't already have a running hour meter, install one and ensure it is running properly; This will help you know when scheduled maintenance service is due.

DON'T: Run the generator for extended periods of time without powering appliances 

Don't run your generator without using it to power appliances; this wastes fuel and can cause the engine to misfire.

DON'T: Run your generator with the generator door panel removed 

Running the generator with the door removed can cause safety issues, can disrupt airflow, can leave the generator exposed to elements, and is also much noisier than running with it on.

DON'T: Attempt to adjust the carburetor, governor, choke and other similar components yourself 

While some tasks can be carried out yourself as part of routine maintenance, these tasks generally require a Cummins authorized dealer. Click HERE to schedule a service appointment.

DON'T: Run your generator on roads where there is heavy pooling of water

Don't risk flooding your generator. Anytime there's pooled water on a roadway, be sure that you aren't running your generator.

Pressure washing can result in water infiltration, damage to components, displacement of lubricants, rust and corrosion.

CONCLUSION

Following these simple operating guidelines will help greatly improve the performance and longevity of your Cummins RV, and keep you on the road worry-free for years to come!

If you have any questions or need help with any aspect of your RV generator maintenance, give us a call!