Why does my generator keep tripping its own breaker?
Your generator's breaker trips when it detects an overload, a short circuit, or a ground fault. This is a safety feature to…
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Generators & Backup Power
Practical, step-by-step fixes for generators & backup power problems — 6 published so far.
Why does my generator keep tripping the GFCI outlet when I plug in my refrigerator?
Your generator's GFCI outlet trips because the refrigerator's compressor creates a brief current surge that the sensitive GFCI interprets as a ground…
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Why does my generator keep tripping the load breaker?
Generator breakers trip for these in order: it’s easy, you're overloading it, or a short-circuit inside one end piece. When tripping happens…
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Why does my generator shut off after running for 20 minutes?
Your generator likely shuts off after 20 minutes because the low-oil sensor triggers, the fuel tank vent is clogged, or the engine…
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Why does my portable generator run but only power some outlets?
Your generator likely has a tripped GFCI outlet or a faulty circuit breaker on the generator itself, not the transfer switch. Reset…
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Why won't my portable generator start in cold weather?
Cold weather thickens engine oil and reduces battery cranking power, making the generator hard to start. Use synthetic 5W-30 oil, keep the…
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