Perry Mack
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, many RVers start preparing their rigs for winter storage. If your RV will be hibernating this season, don’t forget one essential step: winterizing your generator. Taking a few simple precautions now can save you time, money, and frustration when it’s time to hit the road again in spring.
Your generator works hard all season to keep your adventures powered up, and a little maintenance before storage helps ensure it’s ready to perform at its best next year. Here’s what to know about winterizing different types of generators:
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Remove the panel for information and maintenance access.
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Look for corrosion on battery terminals and clean if necessary.
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Remove and clean the air filter.
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Locate the manufacturers label for the model number and other details.
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The service label has the maintenance schedule, so no guessing!
1. Gasoline Generators
When gasoline sits unused for long periods, it can break down and form a sticky residue known as fuel varnish. This varnish clogs your generator’s carburetor, fuel filter, and pump—making it difficult to start or run smoothly when you need it again.
Fuel varnish can start forming in as little as 30 days, depending on fuel quality and storage conditions. The good news? It’s easy to prevent. Before storing your RV:
- Add a high-quality fuel stabilizer to your gasoline tank.
- Run the generator for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel through the system.
- Check for any leaks, and ensure your oil and air filters are in good shape.
These small steps help keep the fuel system clean and your generator ready for action when spring returns.
2. LP (Propane) Generators
Propane generators require less prep for winter, but a quick inspection is still important for safety and reliability. Before tucking yours in for the season:
- Inspect the LPG system to make sure there are no leaks.
- Verify that the propane tank is not overfilled—it should never exceed the manufacturer’s recommended capacity.
- Close the shutoff valve securely.
That’s it! With these quick checks, your LP generator will be ready to go when camping weather returns.
3. Diesel Generators
Diesel fuel can thicken—or even form waxy deposits—when left sitting in cold weather. To prevent this “fuel gelling,” treat your diesel with a winter anti-gelling additive before storage.
You’ll also want to:
- Top off the tank to minimize condensation and rust.
- Replace filters and check oil levels.
- Run the generator for a few minutes to circulate treated fuel through the system.
These steps help protect internal components and ensure smooth starts after the cold season passes.
Bonus Tip: Keep It Running
If you don’t plan to store your RV, remember that your generator still needs regular exercise. Run it for about two hours at half load each month to keep components lubricated, burn off moisture, and maintain battery charge.
Winter is also a great time to handle routine maintenance, like oil and filter changes. For easy, reliable upkeep, explore the Cummins line of maintenance kits and generator care products at shop.cummins.com.
By taking the time to winterize your generator properly, you’ll protect your investment and ensure you’re ready for another season of road trips, campfires, and adventure—no surprises, no setbacks, just power when you need it.