Winter weather can bring freezing temperatures, snow, ice storms, and unexpected power outages. Whether you plan to store your FIRMAN generator for the season or rely on it during winter storms, proper cold-weather care ensures reliable starting, safe operation, and long equipment life.

Winter Storage (No planned use)

If your generator will not be used for several months:

1.     Stabilize and remove fuel

a. Add fuel stabilizer to fresh gasoline and run the generator for 5–10 minutes to circulate treated fuel through the carburetor and fuel lines.

Pro Tip: Fuel left untreated is the #1 cause of hard starting after storage.

2.     Change engine oil before storage

a. Used oil contains contaminants and moisture that can damage internal components.

b. Recommended oil:

                  i.     Above 40°F (4°C): 10W-30

                  ii.     Below 40°F (4°C): Full synthetic 5W-30 (best for cold starts)

3.     Fog the cylinder (long-term storage)

a. Remove the spark plug and add ~1 teaspoon of clean engine oil into the cylinder.
Pull recoil starter slowly several times to distribute oil, then reinstall plug.

b. This protects internal engine surfaces from corrosion during storage.

4.     Battery care (electric start models)

a. Disconnect the battery using the quick-disconnect lead and connect it to a 12-V battery maintainer (trickle charger).

b. Cold temperatures accelerate battery discharge — maintenance charging prevents premature failure.

5.     Clean and protect

1. Clean air filter (warm soapy water, dry, lightly oil foam if applicable)
2. Wipe exterior surfaces
3. Store covered in a dry, ventilated location
4. Avoid direct ground contact (use shelf or pallet)

6.     Prevent rodent damage

a. Rodents often chew wiring and insulation during winter storage.

b. Store in sealed or elevated areas and consider deterrents.
Rodent damage is not covered under warranty.

Winter Use

If you expect outages or occasional winter use, here are some tips for winter use.

1.     Fuel care

a. Keep fuel stabilized at all times.
After each use, shut off fuel valve and allow generator to run until carburetor is         empty.

b. This helps prevents cold-weather starting issues and fuel degradation.

2.     Cold-weather oil

a. Use full synthetic 5W-30 for easier cold starts and improved lubrication at low temperatures.

3.    Propane use in freezing temperatures

Propane vaporization slows in cold weather, reducing output.

Tips on propane use in freezing temps:

• Keep tank off frozen ground
• Use larger tank (20 lb performs better than small cylinders)
• Shield tank from wind
• Keep tank above 20°F (-7°C) when possible

4.     ⚡ Operating a Generator in Freezing Temperatures

Cold weather affects starting, fuel delivery, and electrical components.

 Before starting in freezing conditions:

• • Check oil level
  • Verify fuel condition
  • Inspect battery charge
    
  • Allow engine to warm up several minutes before applying load.