There are countless portable generator brands and models. One of the notable brands is Duromax. Duromax has a number of portable generator models in its range. Their specs differ depending on use cases but generally, Duromax generators are highly reliable. Regardless, we have to look into some of the common Duromax generator problems.
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What Is A Duromax Generator?
A Duromax generator is any of the many portable generators made by Duromax. Broadly, the different Duromax generators can be used in domestic sites, jobsites, and also recreational vehicles (RVs). A Duromax generator typically ranks high on affordability, portability, and warranty, amongst others. Great at that is we must delve into some of the common Duromax generator problems.
Duromax Generator Problems
Generators have several moving parts and an intricate system. It is inevitable that some problems may occur here and there. That is why a Duromax generator is no exception. Here are some of the common Duromax generator problems:
1. Not Starting
It is typical for your Duromax generator to not start. At times it could be your Duromax generator starting hard. Some of the probable causes of this problem are:
- Faulty or worn out spark plug
- Main control switch on wrong position
- Insufficient, wrong, or contaminate fuel
- Generator has been unused for too long
Troubleshooting Not Starting Problem
Start by conducting some obvious preliminary checks. For instance, things like fuel, switches, and the like. Once you have narrowed down the possible causes you can explore the following solutions:
- Fix or replace spark plug
- Ensure main control switch is at OFF position
- Top up or replace fuel
- Try till the generator warms up and starts
2. Stalling
Another common Duromax generator problem is stalling. It is usually the case that at some point your Duromax generator may stall. This is not a dire issue and can easily be diagnosed and fixed. Some of the common causes of this problem are:
- Faulty or worn out spark plug
- Dirty filters
- Dirty, faulty, or damaged carburettor
- Low, wrong, or dirty fuel
Troubleshooting Stalling Problem
When your Duromax generator stalls, it is often connected to the fuel system. Start checking that and narrow down as you check other related components. Once that is done you can explore the following solutions:
- Fix or replace spark plug
- Clean or replace filters
- Clean, fix, or replace carburettor
- Top up or replace fuel
3. Overheating
Generally there is heat production during the operation of your Duromax generator. As such it is quite possible for your Duromax generator to overheat sometimes. When that problem occurs it is often caused by:
- Low coolant level
- Leaking filters
- Generator could be overloaded
Troubleshooting Overheating Problem
The problem of overheating on your Duromax generator is often easy to handle. With just some basic checks you can immediately figure out the root cause. Some of the remedies to your Duromax generator overheating are:
- Top up or replace coolant
- Fix or replace filters e.g. oil and fuel filters
- Reduce the load on the generator
4. Excessive Fuel Consumption
It is a common Duromax generator problem to excessively consume fuel. This is a problem you can easily notice if you usually pay attention to your Duromax generator’s fuel consumption. Some of the probable causes of the problem are:
- Generator is overloaded
- Overusing the generator
- Carbon build-up on core parts e.g. valves and injectors
- Wrong coolant temperature
Troubleshooting Excessive Fuel Consumption Problem
It is important to comprehensively investigate to figure out the correct root cause. You have to zone in on the actual cause(s). Then you can consider the following remedies to address the problem:
- Reduce load on the generator
- Limit your use of the generator
- Thoroughly clean your generator regularly
- Ensure coolant temperature is optimum
5. Excessive Smoking
Normally your generator is not supposed to produce visible smoke. Thus when your Duromax generator begins to excessively smoke you know there is an issue. Some of the probable causes of this problem are:
- Contaminated fuel and or oil
- Carbon build-ups
- Dirty or worn out components e.g. piston rings, filters
- Misaligned or loose components e.g. injectors, valves
Troubleshooting Excessive Smoking Problem
Make sure you conduct the necessary checks to establish the root cause. The possible causes are numerous. Some of the solutions you can use to address the problem are:
- Replace fuel and or oil
- Get rid of carbon build-ups by thoroughly cleaning the entire generator
- Identify and clean or replace compromised components
- Identify and realign or tighten components that are not properly in their place
How To Avoid Duromax Generator Problems
Before and after every use of your Duromax generator, you must inspect it. This will help you identify any urgent matters needing attention. You should also regularly clean your Duromax generator. Always store it clean and dry, in a cool, dry, and clean place. Conduct regular routine maintenance e.g. oil changes, flushing, tune ups, and replacing worn out components, amongst others. It is also important to ensure you are using recommended and genuine products e.g. using the right (and clean) fuel, oil, coolant, and the like. Always sticking to what the user manual says is also indispensably important. All of these practices contribute immensely in avoiding common Duromax generator problems.
How Long Can A Generator Run Without Rest?
It is recommended that a generator must not run for more than 500 hours non-stop. Of course the duration of non-stop running of your generator depends on two things. That is, the type of generator and the source of the fuel.
How Often Should I Change Oil In My Generator?
It is recommended that you should change oil in your generator after every 50 to 200 hours of operation. This especially so if you tend to use your generator on a daily basis.
Conclusion
A Duromax generator is generally robust and quite efficient. The other good thing is that these Duromax generator problems are not that sophisticated. They are problems you can avoid and also effectively address if they arise. What is paramount is regular routine maintenance and responsible use.