What to Do If Your Generator Keeps Shutting Off in St. Louis

Your generator shutting off usually means there’s an issue with fuel, oil, air, electrical load or a safety sensor. Start by confirming you have fresh fuel and the tank is full, check the oil level and sensor, clean or replace the air filter, reduce excessive load, and reset safety switches. If it still won’t stay on, call Hoffman Brothers—serving St. Louis and Nashville—for expert diagnosis and repair.

 

Check Your Fuel Supply and Quality

 

Generators need a steady flow of clean fuel. Old or contaminated fuel can clog the fuel lines and filters, causing the engine to stall.

• Verify the fuel tank is at least half full to prevent air from entering the system.
• Replace fuel older than 30 days or treated improperly.
• Inspect fuel lines and filters for dirt, water, or debris; replace any clogged filters.
• Use the manufacturer’s recommended fuel type and grade.

 

Inspect the Oil Level and Sensor

 

Most generators have an oil sensor that will shut the engine off if the oil is low to prevent damage.

• Check the oil dipstick while the generator is on a level surface; add oil if below the “full” mark.
• Use the oil type recommended by the manufacturer (often SAE 10W-30 for small engines).
• Look for oil leaks around the engine and oil filter.
• Clean the oil sensor gently with a soft cloth; replace the sensor if it fails.

 

Clean or Replace the Air Filter

 

A dirty air filter chokes the engine, causing rough running and shutdowns.

• Remove the air filter cover and take out the filter.
• If it’s very dirty, replace it; if lightly dirty, clean it with warm, soapy water and let it dry.
• Inspect the airbox for debris and wipe it clean.
• Reinstall the filter properly to ensure a tight seal.

 

Examine Electrical Load and Transfer Switch

 

Overloading the generator or a faulty transfer switch can cause repeated shutdowns.

• List all appliances and devices connected; ensure their combined wattage does not exceed the generator’s capacity.
• Start appliances one at a time to avoid sudden surges.
• Inspect the transfer switch controls for damage or loose connections.
• Test the transfer switch by switching back and forth to confirm proper operation.

 

Review Safety and Shutdown Sensors

 

Modern generators include various sensors and switches that shut the engine off under unsafe conditions.

• Check for an overheating condition; ensure the cooling fins and vents are free of dust and debris.
• Test the low-oil shutdown switch and voltage regulator; replace any component that fails.
• Inspect spark arrestor screens (on propane or natural gas models) and clean regularly.
• Reset ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and circuit breakers if tripped.

 

Perform Regular Maintenance

 

Keeping a maintenance schedule prevents many common problems before they cause shutdowns.

• Change oil and filter every 100 hours or as recommended in the manual.
• Replace spark plugs yearly or every 200 hours of use.
• Run the generator under load monthly for 30 minutes to cycle fluids and test components.
• Store it in a clean, dry area and cover it to prevent dust buildup.

 

When to Contact Hoffman Brothers

 

If you’ve walked through these steps and the generator still shuts off, you may have an internal issue like a failing fuel pump, carburetor problem or electrical fault. The certified technicians at Hoffman Brothers provide full-service residential and commercial generator repair and maintenance. They will perform a complete diagnostic, replace worn parts, and ensure your backup power is reliable.