If you’ve ever been around your generator when it’s running, you may have noticed that it can sometimes sound like it’s sputtering or coughing. That’s because the generator isn’t running evenly, an issue that can be especially frustrating if you don’t know how to fix it. So, why does your generator rev up and down?
Your generator can rev up and down due to low fuel, an overloaded circuit, the wrong fuel type, or a clogged pilot jet. Easy fixes include topping up the fuel, removing the extra load from the generator, using the right fuel type, and cleaning the pilot jet.
In this post, I’ll take you through eleven different issues that might be causing your generator to rev up and down and how you can fix them. Hopefully, at least one of these fixes will work for you!
11 Causes of Generator Revving Up and Down
If you’ve ever owned a generator, you know how annoying it can be to hear the equipment rev up and down. It’s not just frustrating – it’s also dangerous and can cause your generator to break down. Therefore, it’s critical to know the potential causes of generator revving, so you can fix the issue and keep your generator running smoothly.
Here are a few reasons why your generator might be revving up and down:
The Generator Is Low on Fuel
If your generator is low on fuel, it can cause the engine to run unevenly, which will make the generator sound like it’s revving up and down. That’s because the engine isn’t getting enough power, and it’s trying to make up for it by revving higher.
Besides causing revving, running your generator low on fuel can also cause damage to the engine. Over time, this damage can lead to decreased performance and eventually failure (source).
The Generator Is Overloaded
If you’re running too many appliances or devices on your generator, it can cause the equipment to overload. That’s because the generator is trying to provide power to too many appliances at once, and it can’t keep up.
As a result, you’ll hear the generator struggling to keep up, and it will sound like it’s revving up and down. Additionally, if you overload your generator for too long, it can lead to damage that will require repairs.
You’re Using the Wrong Fuel Type
If you’re using the wrong fuel type in your generator, it can cause all sorts of problems – including revving up and down. That’s because the wrong fuel type can cause the engine to run less efficiently, and it can even damage the engine over time.
So, if you use your generator regularly, ensure you’re using the right fuel type.
The Pilot Jet Is Clogged
The pilot jet is responsible for delivering fuel to your generator’s engine. Over time, it can become clogged with dirt and debris, restricting the flow of fuel.
If the pilot jet is clogged, it can cause the engine to run unevenly, and you’ll hear the generator revving up and down. Additionally, the engine may not start at all if the pilot jet is completely clogged.
The Throttle Spring Is Missing or Detached
The throttle spring is responsible for keeping the throttle in the correct position. If the spring is missing or detached, it can cause the throttle to open too far, resulting in too much air being drawn into the engine. This can cause the engine to run erratically, and you’ll hear the generator revving up and down.
Additionally, if the throttle is open too far, it can cause the engine to over rev and eventually fail. So, if you suspect your throttle spring is damaged, be sure to have it fixed as soon as possible.
The Capacitor Is Damaged
The capacitor is responsible for storing electrical energy and releasing it when needed. If the capacitor is damaged, it can cause the generator to rev up and down because it’s not able to supply the engine with enough power.
Additionally, a damaged capacitor can cause the generator to overheat and eventually fail.
The Governor Is Damaged
The governor is responsible for controlling the speed of your generator’s engine. If the governor is damaged, it can cause the engine to run too fast, which will make the generator sound like it’s revving up and down.
Additionally, a damaged governor can cause the engine to over rev and eventually fail. Therefore, if you suspect your governor is damaged, it’s important to have it fixed as soon as possible.
You’ve Been Skimping on Maintenance
Not keeping up with your generator’s maintenance schedule can catch up to you eventually. For example, if you haven’t been changing the oil regularly, the engine can start to wear out, and you’ll hear the generator revving up and down.
Additionally, if you haven’t been cleaning the air filter, it can become clogged, causing the engine to run less efficiently. As a result, you may notice the generator is struggling to handle the load, and it may start to rev up and down.
The Fuel Filter Is Clogged
If the fuel filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, causing it to run less efficiently. Additionally, a clogged fuel filter can cause the engine to misfire, and you’ll hear the generator revving up and down.
If you suspect your fuel filter is clogged, be sure to have it replaced as soon as possible.
The Motors Are Worn Out
If the motors in your generator are worn out, they may not be able to provide enough power to the engine. As a result, the engine may start to rev up and down.
Additionally, the engine may not be able to run at its full potential, which can lead to a decrease in power output.
The Generator Is Old and Worn Out
If your generator is old, it may not be running as efficiently as it used to. Additionally, all the components in your generator – including the engine – will have worn out over time.
As a result, you may notice that your generator sounds like it’s revving up and down more than it used to.
11 Easy Fixes for a Generator That Revs Up and Down
Having looked at the eleven issues that might cause your generator rev up and down, we will now look at some easy fixes you can carry out to rectify the problem.
1. Top Up the Fuel Level on Your Generator
One of the first things you should do if your generator is revving up and down is to check the fuel level and top it up if necessary. If the tank is empty, then obviously, your generator isn’t going to run for very long before it runs out of fuel.
Here’s how to top up the fuel level in your generator:
- Start by ensuring that the generator is turned off and cool to the touch. If it’s been running, then you’ll need to wait for it to cool down before proceeding.
- Remove the fuel cap and insert a clean funnel into the tank.
- Slowly pour fuel into the funnel until the tank is full.
- Once the tank is full, remove the funnel and replace the fuel cap.
Now, try starting up your generator again and see if it’s still revving up and down. If the problem persists, you’ll need to look at some of the other potential causes.
2. Check if Your Generator Is Overloaded
If you suspect your generator is revving up and down due to overloading, follow these easy steps:
- Check the power output of the generator. Most generators have a power rating listed in watts (W).
- Now, take a look at the appliances and devices you’re trying to run off the generator. Each one will have a power rating in watts as well.
- Add up the power ratings of all the appliances and devices you’re trying to run off the generator. That number should be lower than the power output rating of the generator. If it’s not, then you’re overloaded and need to remove some of the appliances and devices.
3. Use the Correct Fuel Type
If you’re using the wrong fuel type in your generator, it’s likely that the engine isn’t running as efficiently as it could be. To avoid this problem, use the correct fuel type for your generator.
If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website. You can also (usually) find a sticker on the generator itself that lists the recommended fuel type.
4. Clean the Pilot Jet
If the pilot jet is clogged, it’s time to clean it. To do that, you’ll need to:
- Shut off the generator and let it cool down.
- Remove the carburetor cover.
- Locate the pilot jet and unscrew it with a small screwdriver or Allen wrench.
- Clean out the pilot jet with compressed air or a toothpick.
- Screw the pilot jet back in and replace the carburetor cover.
Now, try starting up your generator again to see if the revving has stopped.
Here’s a video demo of how to clean your generator’s pilot jet:
5. Check the Throttle Spring
If the throttle spring is missing or detached, it can cause the engine to rev up and down. To check the throttle spring, you’ll need to:
- Shut off the generator and let it cool down.
- Remove the carburetor cover.
- Locate the throttle spring and check to see if it’s still attached. If it’s not, then you’ll need to replace it.
- If the throttle spring is attached, make sure it’s not broken or damaged in any way.
- Reattach or replace the throttle spring as necessary and replace the carburetor cover.
6. Replace the Capacitor
If the capacitor is damaged, it’s time for a replacement. To do that, you’ll need to:
- Shut off the generator and let it cool down.
- Remove the generator cover.
- Locate the capacitor and disconnect the wires.
- Remove the old capacitor and install a new one in its place.
- Reconnect the wires to the new capacitor and replace the generator cover.
Caveat: Replacing your generator’s components is a delicate process. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, then contact a professional.
7. Replace the Governor
If the governor is damaged, it’s time for a replacement. To do that, you’ll need to:
- Shut off the generator and let it cool down.
- Remove the generator cover.
- Locate the governor and disconnect the wires.
- Remove the old governor and install a new one in its place.
- Reconnect the wires to the new governor and replace the generator cover.
Note: Ensure the replacement governor fits your generator model before making the purchase. The rule applies to all other replacement parts as well. Otherwise, you risk further damage to your generator.
8. Perform Regular Maintenance
If you’ve been skimping on maintenance, it’s likely that your generator is revving up and down because it needs some TLC. To avoid this problem, be sure to perform regular maintenance on your generator, including:
- Checking the oil level and quality
- Checking the air filter
- Cleaning the spark plug
- Flushing the fuel tank
If you’re unsure how to perform maintenance on your generator, consult the owner’s manual or take it to a professional.
9. Clean or Replace the Fuel Filter
If the fuel filter is clogged, you must clean or replace it. To do that, you’ll need to:
- Shut off the generator and let it cool down.
- Remove the generator cover.
- Locate the fuel filter and disconnect the fuel line.
- Remove the old fuel filter and either clean it or install a new one in its place.
- Reconnect the fuel line and replace the generator cover.
10. Replace the Motors
If the motors are worn out, they’ll need to be replaced. To do that, you’ll need to:
- Shut off the generator and let it cool down.
- Remove the generator cover.
- Locate the motors and disconnect the wires.
- Remove the old motors and install new ones in their place.
- Reconnect the wires to the new motors and replace the generator cover.
11. Replace the Generator
If your generator is old and worn out, it’s time for a replacement. Even if you’ve been taking good care of it, there comes a point when every generator reaches the end of its lifespan. When that time comes, you’ll need to reconsider your power needs and decide which model and size best suit your requirements.
If you’re not sure how to go about this process, consult a professional. They’ll help you find the right generator for your needs and install it properly.
Note: If the generator is still under warranty, check with the manufacturer to see if they offer replacement services.
However, if you need a new generator, go with this DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator from Amazon.com. It’s a powerful generator with a 13,000-watt output, dual fuel capabilities, and can power most of your household appliances, making it an excellent choice for emergency backup power.
Final Thoughts
There’s a wide range of reasons why your generator might be revving up and down. The most common cause is low fuel, but it could also be due to overloading the device, a clogged fuel filter, a damaged capacitor, or the other issues I’ve just discussed.
If you’re not sure what’s causing the problem, consult a professional. They’ll help you diagnose the issue and find the best solution. Remember, the earlier you act, the less damage you’ll have to deal with later — and the less money you’ll have to spend on repairs!
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