Much like humans, generators don’t like being couch potatoes. Just like our arteries clog up from a sedentary lifestyle, so does bad fuel gum up tiny passages in carburetors when left to stagnate. Most RV generators die from neglect, not old age.

How Often Should I Exercise My RV Generator?

All the major RV genset manufacturers, such as Onan and Generac, recommend exercising your onboard generator at least once a month for 1-2 hours at 50% load. (Details vary – see your Owner’s Manual). This lubricates the engine organs, displaces any moisture buildup, mixes the engine oil, and consumes old fuel.

Exercise isn’t just good for the moving parts within the engine; the generator itself (the rotor and stator portion) benefits from occasional exercise as well, since the heat and airflow dry out the windings and flex the drive belt (if equipped) to prevent dry rot. Plus, the rotor shaft bearings don’t like sitting for months at a time any more than you like being bedridden.