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How long an inverter generator will last depends on several factors. Some of those include the original quality of the model you buy, how you use it, how and where it’s stored, and how well it’s maintained.
Therefore, how long yours will last depends on how you use it and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, as those significantly impact its lifespan.
This article will explain how long they should last, along with lots of great tips that you can follow to help it run optimally and extend its lifespan.
Let’s dive in.
How Long Can You Expect an Inverter Generator To Last?
Depending on the quality of your inverter generator, if regular maintenance is performed and proper usage and storage conditions are followed, you can expect it to last 10 – 15 years or at least 1000 – 2000 running hours. Many people get them to last even longer when they follow all the recommendations.
What You Use It For
How you use your generator is critical. For example, if you need 1900W of power and buy a 2000W model, it will run at near maximum capacity every time you use it. Traditional generators always run on maximum power, which uses a lot of excess fuel.
It’s also hard on an inverter generator, putting more strain on its engine than if you bought a 3000W model to run the same equipment. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to buy more capacity than you need and be mindful of how you use it.
How Many Hours You Run It
Inverter generators are more portable and intended for recreational use. Another common use is with sensitive equipment that could be damaged by a traditional model that does not have the built-in inverter to clean up the sine wave and remove potentially damaging voltage spikes.
They’re not intended to be run continuously without a break. So, if you run yours all day for days at a time, it won’t last as long as those given more breaks between usage. Depending on your usage needs, you could also consider a portable power station if you need to power sensitive electronics for longer periods of time.
Routine Maintenance
Many great routine maintenance tips, like regular oil changes, cleaning the air filters, and others discussed below, are essential to extending the lifespan of your inverter generator. You should utilize these recommendations to ensure it will last. It’s no different than a car; without maintenance, the engine simply won’t last as long as it should.
How To Prolong the Lifespan of Your Inverter Generator
Here are several great tips to prolong the life of your inverter generator.
Follow the Instructions in The User Manual
This is critical, especially if you’re new to using inverter generators or just new to this model. Always follow the instructions in the user manual so you know how to properly use, store, and maintain your generator to prevent accidental damage.
Keep Your Air Filter Clean
Air filters should be cleaned using warm water and a mild detergent every 50 running hours or every three months. They should be dried thoroughly before they’re used again. If they show signs of damage, they should be replaced immediately.
Regular Oil Changes
Just like with your car, regular oil changes are important to keep it running optimally. Check your user manual for your manufacturer’s recommendations. An oil change is generally recommended after the first 24 hours of operation and then every six months after that.
It’s also a good idea to check your oil after use to ensure you have enough for the next run to prevent it from accidentally being used without enough oil.
Replace Your Spark Plug Yearly
Your spark plug provides the spark that ignites your generator’s fuel to create power. So, it’s important to check it every few months for signs of wear and tear and replace it once a year to ensure your generator runs optimally.
Run it Regularly
Like all equipment, if you don’t use your generator for long periods of time, it can start to run poorly. Therefore, it’s a good idea to start and use it to power something for about half an hour every few months while in storage.
Drain the Carburetor
One of the most common causes of damage is from blocked or dirty carburetors. Therefore, it’s important to drain any excess fuel after use if it won’t be used for a while, especially before going into storage. Have the carburetor refurbished or replaced if it’s already blocked or damaged.
Never Use Old Fuel
If you have a jerry can of fuel that’s been sitting around for some time, don’t use it. Old fuel will not work in your generator, and it can damage your carburetor by clogging it. It’s not worth the risk.
Clean and Lubricate it Before Storing It
In addition to draining the carburetor, you should use a magnetic dipstick to remove debris inside the crankcase, ensure all ventilation openings are debris-free, and wipe your generator down to remove dirt.
It’s also important to ensure the engine is lubricated; you can pour a very small amount of oil into the spark plug opening to lubricate the engine.
Store Properly When Not in Use
Where you store your unit is crucial. To prevent problems with its electrical components, keep it in a cool, dry place free of dust and dampness. To give it some additional protection from dust and other debris, place a cover over it while in storage.
Final Thoughts
Thanks to their built-in inverters, inverter generators are very useful, compact, fuel-efficient generators that can power sensitive electronics. This makes them highly valuable equipment, so it’s a good idea to maintain them to keep them operating optimally.
On average, they will last 10 – 15 years or 1000 – 2000 running hours, or even more with routine oil and spark plug changes, air filter cleaning, proper storage, and appropriate use.