--- title: "Gold Shield: Generator Annual Maintenance and Service" description: Certified service for Generac and Kohler generators with detailed inspections, full cleaning, and expert maintenance to ensure reliable backup power. image: https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hubfs/repair-service-generator.jpg --- [Skip to content](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/generator-annual-maintenance-and-service#main-content) [![Guardian-Home-Generator-Backup-Logo-Gray-BG-SM](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Guardian-Home-Generator-Backup-Logo-Gray-BG-SM.png?width=300&height=91&name=Guardian-Home-Generator-Backup-Logo-Gray-BG-SM.png "Guardian-Home-Generator-Backup-Logo-Gray-BG-SM")](https://www.guardianhomegenerators.com) - [Home](https://guardianhomegenerators.com) - [Services](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/whole-home-generator-services-install-maintain-repair) - [Overview](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/whole-home-generator-services-install-maintain-repair) - [Installation](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/dfw-whole-home-generator-installation) - [Maintenance](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/generator-annual-maintenance-and-service) - [Service](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/best-generator-service-and-repair) - [FAQ](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/whole-home-generator-questions-answers) - [Expert Advice](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog) - [Meet the Owner](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/about-us) - [Local Businesses](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/local-business-home-generators) - [214-233-5159](tel:214-233-5159) - [Get Started](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/contact-guardian-home-generators-of-dallas-ft-worth) - [Generator Maintenance](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/tag/generator-maintenance), - [Home Generator FAQs](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/tag/home-generator-faqs) # Gold Shield: Generator Annual Maintenance and Service ![](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hubfs/repair-service-generator.jpg) - June 2, 2025 ![Brad Nash](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hubfs/Headshot-Best-Flag.jpeg) [Brad Nash](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/author/brad-nash) ### **What Makes Guardian Home Generators Different?** Failure to maintain proper maintenance will void your warranty.  We are fully trained, certified, and authorized to install, service,  and perform warranty repairs for [Generac](https://www.generac.com/)and [Kohler](https://www.kohlerhomeenergy.rehlko.com/products/home-generators)whole-home generators, ensuring top-tier expertise for every generator we handle.  Our meticulous, top-to-bottom approach is designed to catch small issues before they become expensive problems and to ensure your generator is ready when it matters most. #### Guardian Home Generators' Gold Shield Service Plan - A comprehensive two-visit annual maintenance plan that goes far beyond a simple oil change. - A full 12-month routine service replacing oil, oil filter, air filter, and spark plugs. - A mid-year inspection—including complete battery diagnostics, testing, and meticulous cleaning to catch minor issues early and ensure your [Generac](https://www.generac.com/home-standby-generators/) or [Kohler](https://www.kohlerhomeenergy.rehlko.com/) system is 100% ready when it matters most. - Up to 50% off services or repairs - Up to $50 off battery replacement - Priority scheduling for plan members - [Remote monitoring](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/home-back-up-generator-remote-monitoring-service) add-on available #### ⚡Guardian Home Generator Service:  Attention to detail and more than just an oil change ⚡ - ![Maintenance-Before-After-Kohler-Tall](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Maintenance-Before-After-Kohler-Tall.jpg?width=500&height=700&name=Maintenance-Before-After-Kohler-Tall.jpg) Click to View - ![generator-service-battery](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/service-before-after-battery-1-1.png?width=600&height=600&name=service-before-after-battery-1-1.png) Click to View - ![service-before-after-front](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/service-before-after-front.png?width=1080&height=1080&name=service-before-after-front.png) Click to View   #### **Generator Service Explained** Preventive and regular maintenance does not guarantee performance, but lack of maintenance will guarantee failure. Whole-home standby generators are reliable by design, but they are still working pieces of machinery.  Living in North Texas, your Generac generator requires an oil and oil filter change **every year or after every 100 hours** of run time since last service.  The systems include an engine that requires proper lubrication and airflow, a fuel system that must ignite reliably, and batteries and control electronics that are affected by time, heat, moisture, and run hours. #### **The Bottom Line Up Front** Don't wait for the yellow (orange) warning light on your Generac backup generator!  Our preventative maintenance plans are designed to address both **time-based wear** and **real-world operating conditions** that affect standby generators throughout the year.  We recommend a minimum of two service visits per year, four is ideal for maximum protection, along with your [exercise plan](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/proper-exercise-for-your-hsb-home-standby-generator). - **Your 12-month service visit** provides early detection and preventative maintenance by scanning the battery, inspection, full system testing, cleaning, and replacement of all routine service parts (AKA [Generac Schedule A Maintenance](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/generac-schedule-a-maintenance)) - **Your mid-year visit(s)** provide early detection by scanning the battery, inspection, full system testing, and cleaning - Together, they keep your generator ready when it matters most #### **The 12-Month Service Visit: Full Preventive Maintenance** The 12-month service is the **comprehensive maintenance visit**.  This is when all required maintenance consumables are replaced.  This service is ideally performed between 3 to 6 months for new installations (see below).  Your MobileLink app or owner's manual may state maintenance is required every two years.  However, if you read further, the manual states "Generators that operate in extremely hot or cold environments below 40°F (\<4.4°C) or above 85°F (\>29.4°C) require an oil and oil filter change **every year or after every 100 hours** of run time since last service"  Texas heat can be brutal on engines, oil, and batteries.  All of the services provided at 6 months PLUS - Engine oil and oil filter change - Air filter replacement - Spark plug replacement - Battery testing and inspection - Valve inspection - Valve lash adjustments if required (additional fee) - Full operational and load testing #### **Mid-Year Service Visit(s): Inspection, Testing, and Early Detection** The 3-Month and 6-month visits focus on **inspection, testing, and prevention**. These visits allow us to catch developing issues before they turn into failures, especially battery-related problems, which are a leading cause of generator issues. - Comprehensive battery testing and terminal inspection - Visual inspection of fuel system, exhaust, and electrical connections - Inspect hoses and accessible engine components - Operational test to confirm proper startup and transfer - General condition assessment of the generator enclosure and pad - Inspect for rodents or insects that can cause damage to electrical components - Full cleaning to reduce dust and debris from entering the system - ![Battery Scan and Test](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Battery-Test.jpg?width=1080&height=1080&name=Battery-Test.jpg) Battery Scan & Test - ![Check Oil Level](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/check-oil-dipstick.jpg?width=1080&height=1080&name=check-oil-dipstick.jpg) Check Oil Level - ![Check Oil Quality](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/oil-moisture.jpg?width=1080&height=1080&name=oil-moisture.jpg) Check Oil Quality - ![kohler-generator-maintenance-rodent-nest-1](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/kohler-generator-maintenance-rodent-nest-1.jpg?width=600&height=600&name=kohler-generator-maintenance-rodent-nest-1.jpg) Inspect for Rodents and Insects - ![generator-worn-battery-cable-1](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/generator-worn-battery-cable-1.jpg?width=600&height=597&name=generator-worn-battery-cable-1.jpg) Inspect Parts and Connections - ![liquid cooled generator maintenance](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/liquid-cooled-generator-maintenance.jpg?width=1080&height=608&name=liquid-cooled-generator-maintenance.jpg) Liquid Cooled Generators   #### Exercise and Break-in Period Most standby generators default to a 5 to 20 minute weekly "no-load" exercise.  That automated exercising confirms the unit will start and keeps the pistons and moving parts lubricated.  However, your generator will not reach the sustained high temperatures needed to boil off condensation that naturally accumulates in the engine oil of a generator's engine.   While these engines are designed to tolerate some moisture, long-term buildup can lead to internal corrosion and reduced lubrication efficiency.  | What | When | How/Why? (see below for more detailed instructions) | | --- | --- | --- | | **25 Hour Break-In** | **First 3-6 Months** | Target **25 hours of runtime within 3 to 6 months**.  (see below for complete details) | | **1-Hour Manual Run** | **4 to 6 times per year** | Run the engine on Manual mode for 1 hour to help evaporate water that has collected in the oil to maximize lubrication.  (The oil will appear milky rather than clear when water is present, see image above) | | **1-Hour Load Test** | **2 to 4 times per year** | Running under load causes the engine to work at speed, generating even more heat to further “dry” the oil.  This also tests your entire system, including the ATS | | **2-3 Hour Deep Run** | **1 to 2 times per year** | Longer runs of 2 to 3 hours or more during “manual” or “under load” exercises ensure excess moisture evaporates out of the oil | ##### **READ MORE: [Proper Exercise and Break-In For Your Home Standby Generator](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/proper-exercise-for-your-hsb-home-standby-generator)** #### Why it Matters Generators generally do not fail because they are unreliable. They most often fail because of neglect. Manufacturers require documented maintenance for warranty coverage, and real-world experience shows that twice-annual or quarterly service significantly improves reliability compared to once-a-year inspections. Guardian Home Generators is ready to **Power Your Peace of Mind**™ See Also: [Generac Break-in Guidelines](https://support.generac.com/s/article/How-do-I-perform-the-break-in-maintenance-for-a-home-standby-generator) [Generac Maintenance Recommendations](https://support.generac.com/s/article/How-do-I-perform-the-yearly-maintenance-for-my-home-standby-generator) [Kohler Maintenance Recommendations](https://www.powersystems.rehlko.com/sea/ensuring-operational-resilience-the-importance-of-generator-maintenance)   [![Schedule Service Now →](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/242395595/interactive-292091936474.png)](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLI0vHKD7CLFPj9yW3RPgONC2sqMJXEDC7ZO%2FOvfCg4qZXvlOtlM4%2B0wMzGXBNhMKRdnxSzNjMiWen6aInTU71jWX9qL1cTYoTHqOVv4JYDWbSFJqX43MZ%2FN4tN9Ljg8dn4aBkGKBBHnetwsmoGzgQawxqwTl4KF7uS4NZFfKdQy933RvSGOq4yHLOmJxKjscKDQhiHdf4kmHEqDxCw7P9XphIBZ1abwpbJbnYEBM1BPprRk%2BT9f&webInteractiveContentId=292091936474&portalId=242395595) --- Blog Post ## Related Articles [![](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hubfs/Generac_Home-Backup-Extended-Warranty-1.png)](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/generac-extended-warranty-explained) [Generator Maintenance](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/tag/generator-maintenance) ### [Generac Extended Warranty Explained](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/generac-extended-warranty-explained) July 23, 2026 What You Get and Why Extended Coverage Matters Understanding what’s included with your generator’s standard warranty... [Read more](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/generac-extended-warranty-explained) [![](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hubfs/valve-adjust.jpg)](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/what-are-generator-valve-adjustments-and-why-they-matter) [Generator Maintenance](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/tag/generator-maintenance) ### [What are Generator Valve Adjustments and Why They Matter?](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/what-are-generator-valve-adjustments-and-why-they-matter) April 5, 2024 A whole-home standby generator is a small engine that works hard when you need it most. Like any engine, it relies on... [Read more](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/what-are-generator-valve-adjustments-and-why-they-matter) [![](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hubfs/Power%20Failure%20Test.png)](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/what-a-generator-exercise-cycle-does-and-does-not-do) [Power Failures](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/tag/power-failures), [Generator Maintenance](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/tag/generator-maintenance), [Home Generator FAQs](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/tag/home-generator-faqs) ### [What a generator exercise cycle does...and does not do.](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/what-a-generator-exercise-cycle-does-and-does-not-do) May 3, 2025 BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front) A weekly generator exercise mainly keeps the engine components lubricated and confirms the... [Read more](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/what-a-generator-exercise-cycle-does-and-does-not-do) Check all articles ---   [214-233-5159](tel:+214-233-5159) info@guardianhomegenerators.com [Get a Quote](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/contact-guardian-home-generators-of-dallas-ft-worth) [![Guardian Home Generator With Logo](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Guardian-Home-Generator-Render-Logo-SM.png?width=300&height=300&name=Guardian-Home-Generator-Render-Logo-SM.png "Guardian Home Generator With Logo")](https://www.guardianhomegenerators.com) **Guardian Home Generators, LLC** specializes in the professional installation of whole-home backup power systems powered by [Generac](https://www.generac.com)standby generators. We are based in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex in Grapevine, TX.  We service and install generators in all of Dallas and Ft Worth.  By keeping our focus on serving our surrounding neighbors in Northeast Tarrant County, Southwest Denton County, and Eastern Wise County:  Southlake, Trophy Club, Roanoke, Colleyville, Keller, North Richland Hills, Hurst, Euless, Bedford, Flower Mound, Paradise, and our adjacent neighbors, we provide the best local generator service and installations. We serve homeowners who value reliability, safety, and long-term performance.  We offer customized solutions that automatically restore power during outages. Unlike electricians and general contractors, we focus exclusively on standby generators—delivering expert service, personalized consultations, and unmatched peace of mind. ### Pages - [Home](https://guardianhomegenerators.com) - [Services](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/whole-home-generator-services-install-maintain-repair) - [FAQ](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/whole-home-generator-questions-answers) - [Expert Advice](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog) - [Meet the Owner](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/about-us) - [Local Businesses](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/local-business-home-generators) - [Contact](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/contact-guardian-home-generators-of-dallas-ft-worth) [![Guardian Home Generators BBB Business Review](https://seal-austin.bbb.org/logo/ruhzbum/bbb-1000251390.png)](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/grapevine/profile/generators/guardian-home-generators-0825-1000251390/#sealclick) [![Generac-Logo-Small](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Generac-Logo-Small.jpg?width=225&height=50&name=Generac-Logo-Small.jpg)](https://www.generac.com/) [![kohler-generators-logo-wide-small](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hs-fs/hubfs/kohler-generators-logo-wide-small.png?width=160&height=50&name=kohler-generators-logo-wide-small.png)](https://www.kohlerhomeenergy.rehlko.com/) - [Terms and Conditions](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/terms-conditions) - [Privacy Policy](https://guardianhomegenerators.com/privacy-policy) **©2026 Guardian Home Generators, LLC** We're Social [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575525839657) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.youtube.com/@guardianhomegenerators) [Follow us on Twitter](https://www.instagram.com/guardianhomegenerators) [Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Brad Nash", "url" : "https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/author/brad-nash" }, "dateModified" : "2026-10-18T19:42:43.729Z", "datePublished" : "2025-06-02T04:15:00.000Z", "headline" : "Gold Shield: Generator Annual Maintenance and Service", "image" : [ "https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hubfs/repair-service-generator.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://guardianhomegenerators.com/blog/generator-annual-maintenance-and-service", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://guardianhomegenerators.com/hubfs/Guardian-Home-Generator-Backup-Logo-Gray-BG-SM.png" }, "name" : "Guardian Home Generators, LLC" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://guardianhomegenerators.com/#business", "@type" : "HomeAndConstructionBusiness", "additionalType" : "https://schema.org/Electrician", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Grapevine", "addressRegion" : "TX", "postalCode" : "76051", "streetAddress" : "3205 Meredith Ln" }, "areaServed" : [ { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Grapevine" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Colleyville" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Southlake" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Keller" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Trophy Club" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Flower Mound" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Northlake" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Hurst" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Euless" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Bedford" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "Westlake" }, { "@type" : "Place", "name" : "North Richland Hills" } ], "description" : "Guardian Home Generators specializes in whole-home backup generator installation and maintenance across North Texas, including Grapevine, Southlake, and surrounding cities. 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