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If you own a Generac generator, you need to know how to change and check the air filter regularly. The air filter is an essential component that protects the engine from dust and debris. A dirty or clogged air filter can reduce the performance and efficiency of your generator, and even cause damage to the engine.
In this guide, we will show you how to change and check the air filter on a Generac full house generator. This is a simple and quick maintenance task that you can do yourself, without any special tools or skills. Follow these steps to keep your generator running smoothly and safely.
Table of Contents
What You Need
- A new air filter element (part number 0J8478S for 16 to 26 kW)
- A shop cloth
- Gloves, safety glasses
Replacement Generac Air Filters
Here are some links to two sources of replacement Generac air filters:
Maintenance Kit 6485 with Replacement Air Filter for Generac 0J8478S fits Most 16 to 26 kw generators.
Generac 0J8478S – Air Filter Element Rectangle 14kW – 20kW
How to Replace the Air Filter on a Generac Generator
Step 1: Open the top door of the generator enclosure (you may need your key if locked). You will see the control panel on the right-hand side of the unit.
Step 2: Turn off the unit by pressing the OFF button on the control panel. Then, remove the 7.5 A fuse from the fuse holder, and put the circuit breaker to the OFF position. This will disconnect the power supply and prevent any accidental start-up of the generator.
Remove the Air Filter Housing
Step 3: Locate the air filter housing on the middle to right side of the engine, on the top. It is a black plastic box with a metal clamp on top.
Step 4: Loosen the metal clamp and lift off the cover of the air filter housing. You will see the yellow and orange air filter element inside.
Inspecting the Air Filter Housing
Step 5: Pull out the old air filter element and discard it.
Step 6: Before installing a new one, inspect the bottom of the air filter housing for any signs of condensation or water accumulation. If you find any, use a shop cloth to wipe it dry. This is important because water can freeze in cold weather and block the engine vent, which can cause oil to leak out of the engine and damage other parts of the generator.
Replace Air Filter
Step 7: Insert a new air filter element into the air filter housing. Make sure it fits snugly and securely.
Step 8: Replace the cover of the air filter housing and tighten the metal clamp.
Turn Unit Back On
Step 9: Reinstall the 7.5 A fuse into the fuse holder and put the circuit breaker to the ON position.
Step 10: Close the top door of the generator enclosure.
You have successfully changed and checked the air filter on your Generac generator. You should do this at least once a year, or more often if you use your generator frequently or in dusty environments.
The recommended replacement interval for the air filter element is every 200 hours of operation, or every two years, whichever comes first.
Video on How to Replace the Air Filter on Generac Generators
Watch our full video showing all the steps described here to give you a better idea of how this is done.
How to Dispose of Generac Air Filters
According to some sources, you have two main options: throwing it in the garbage or recycling it.
Throwing it in the garbage is the easiest way, but it may not be the most environmentally friendly. Some parts of the filter, such as the plastic housing, can take a long time to decompose in landfills. Recycling it can help reduce waste and save resources, but it may require some extra steps.
Conclusions
Regularly replacing the air filter in your Generac generator is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. By adhering to this maintenance task, you’ll protect the engine from dust and debris, maintain power output, and prevent increased fuel consumption and engine wear. This simple step plays a vital role in keeping your generator reliable and ready for use when needed.

Additional Maintenance Tips for Generac Generators
To maintain your Generac generator effectively, follow these maintenance tips:
Oil Change and Regular Running: Change oil every 200 hours or annually and run the generator for 20 minutes monthly or weekly per the Generac exercise schedule.
Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement: Check spark plug every 100 hours or annually and replace if damaged or dirty.
Fuel Filter and Sediment Cup Care: Clean every 200 hours or annually, replace if damaged.
Battery Check: Inspect every 200 hours or annually, charge if needed, replace if dead or damaged.
Carburetor Maintenance: Check and clean annually, adjust if necessary, replace if damaged.
Following these tips ensures your generator remains reliable, protecting your family during outages.
By Master Influencer Magazine Home Improvement Staff
Published 6:50 PM EDT, Saturday September 28, 2024
Keywords
Air Filter, Generators, Generac, Tutorial Videos, Maintenance Tips, DIY
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