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Find answers to frequently asked questions about Westinghouse generators

Yes, all our generators include at least oil, oil funnel, and spark plug wrench. The only additional items required are fuel and any grounded 3-prong extension cords (marked for outdoor use and rated for the electrical load) you wish to use.

The life of any generator set is dependent on the care it receives,
adherence to maintenance schedules, and the conditions under which it
operates. Consult the user manual for schedules and operating
recommendations.

High altitude adjustment is required for operation at altitudes starting from 2,000–5,000 ft (610–1524 m). Operation without this adjustment will cause decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and increased emissions. Consult the User Manual for your specific unit.

Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline, 87–93 octane with less than 10% ethanol.

Adding a fuel stabilizer (purchased separately) extends the usable life of fuel and helps prevent deposits from forming that can clog the fuel system. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.

Use fuel stabilizer specifically made for unleaded gasoline. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.

Stabilized fuel can be left in the generator for up to six months if the carburetor float bowl is drained. If storing the generator for 6 months or longer, drain the fuel tank. Start the generator to remove the remaining fuel from the system, then drain the float bowl. Consult the User Manual for specific procedures for your unit.

Yes, but specialized parts and equipment may be necessary depending on circumstances. Consult a licensed plumber before connecting a generator to a large propane tank.

No. Westinghouse does not authorize any type of fuel conversion to its generators. Converting a Westinghouse generator to run on fuel it was not designed for will void your warranty.

Run times are measured at 50% load for open-frame traditional generators and 25% load for inverter generators while using a standard 20 lb. tank.

There is no industry standard for testing sound level of a generator. Westinghouse tests under its own conditions to determine the published sound level as a means of comparing one Westinghouse generator to another. Measurements are taken at an average distance of 25 ft.

SAE 10W-30 engine oil under typical conditions. If running the generator in extreme temperatures, consult the User Manual for your specific unit.

Yes, 5W-30 synthetic engine oil is suitable for use within the full operating temperature range 5 °F (–15 °C) to 104 °F (40 °C).

No. All Westinghouse generators have 4-stroke motors. Use of 2-stroke/cycle oil or other unapproved oil types can cause severe engine damage that is not covered under warranty.

On a level surface, remove the oil dipstick and wipe clean. Screw the dipstick fully into the filler neck. Remove the dipstick and verify that the oil level is within a safe operating range between the Low (L) and High (H) marks on the dipstick.

A quick-connect battery plug is pre-installed on the battery. Remove the cable tie securing the plugs then push firmly to connect them. Ensure that the positive (red) cable is connected to the positive terminal and the negative (black) cable is connected to the negative terminal. The cables and quick-connect plug must be fastened in order to charge the battery.

Most units contain either a battery charger cable or float charger. The float charger will show a red indicator light when charging and green when fully charged. Consult your manual to determine which charger came with your unit and how often the battery should be charged.

No. Only operate the generator at ground level on a dry, flat, and level surface.

Yes. Transfer switch use will vary with your specific type of generator and local codes or ordinances. Consult a qualified electrician to determine the type of transfer switch needed for your unique setup.

Traditional generators produce the same noise level regardless of load. Inverter generator noise levels will increase as additional loads are added.

No. Moisture or ice can cause a short circuit or other malfunction in the electrical circuit. Using a generator or electrical appliance in wet conditions, such as rain or snow, or near a pool or sprinkler system, or when your hands are wet, could result in electrocution.

No. Never use the generator in a location that is wet or damp. Never expose the generator to rain, snow, water spray, or standing water while in use. Protect the generator from all hazardous weather conditions. Moisture or ice can cause a short circuit or other malfunction.

No. Westinghouse Portable Generators are meant for transportable use and storage.

Keep the unit level during transport to minimize the possibility of fuel leakage or — if possible — drain the fuel or run the engine until the fuel tank is empty before transport.

Transfer switch use will vary with your specific type of generator and local codes or ordinances. Consult a qualified electrician to determine which type of transfer switch is needed for your circumstances.

Depending on the specific generator model you own, you may need to disconnect the bonded neutral. Removing the bonded neutral disables the GFCI protection from the 5-20R receptacles. Consult a qualified electrician to determine if your situation requires disconnecting the bonded neutral.

Consult the User Manual for your specific air conditioner. Make sure the generator can supply enough continuous (running) and surge (starting) watts for the air conditioner.

View their How-To guide or, for floating the neutral to a GFCI Breaker, check Westinghouse’s relevant documentation. Removing the bonded neutral disables the GFCI protection from the 5-20R receptacles. The bonded neutral should only be removed under specific circumstances. Consult a qualified electrician to determine if your situation requires doing so.

Local codes or ordinances vary. Consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or local authority to find out if grounding is needed before using the generator.

If the generator is used only with cord-and-plug equipment connected to the receptacles mounted on the generator, the National Electric Code does not require that the unit be grounded. However, other methods of using the generator may require grounding to reduce shock or electrocution risk. Consult qualified professionals and local codes to determine if grounding is needed in your situation.

Westinghouse Generator FAQ