Is It Better to Store a Generator Full or Empty?
Not sure if your generator should nap with a full belly or an empty tank?
Short answer: it depends on how long it’s snoozing and where you live.
Stick around — we’ll break down the best way to store your generator so it’s ready to roar when you need it most.
Is it better to store a generator full or empty in winter?
Winter can sneak up quickly, and that means it’s time to think about what you're doing with your gear — especially your generator.
If you’re only putting it away for a few weeks or a month, it’s usually safe to store it with fuel still inside — but only if you use a fuel stabiliser and run it for a few minutes. This helps keep the fuel system from drying out or corroding. Handy if you need to fire it back up on short notice.
But if it’s going to be out of action for a season or more, draining the tank and running the engine dry is often the smarter move. No fuel means no risk of stale petrol or build-up that can clog things up later.
Should I store my generator with gas?
You can, but only if you do it properly.
Leaving petrol in the tank sounds convenient, but untreated fuel goes off quickly — especially in warm or humid conditions. That’s where things start to gum up and you end up swearing at a machine that won’t start.
If you’re storing it for a short while and want to keep the fuel in, just make sure you add a stabiliser and run the engine for a few minutes. That way the treated fuel moves through the carburettor and fuel lines.
If you're not sure when you'll use it next — just drain it. It’s the safer bet.
Store generator with or without oil
When it comes to oil, it’s a different story.
You should never store a generator with an empty oil tank. The oil protects internal components from moisture and corrosion, even when the engine’s off. An empty crankcase leaves metal exposed and can lead to damage over time.
If the oil looks dirty, change it before storage. Clean oil = happy engine later on.
Fuel stabiliser for generator
Think of fuel stabiliser as insurance for your fuel system.
When added to fresh petrol, it slows the breakdown process and prevents the sticky gunk that clogs up carburettors and fuel lines. It’s a cheap, easy fix that saves you from a no-start headache later on.
Here’s how to use it properly:
Add the stabiliser to the tank, start the generator, and let it run for five to ten minutes. That ensures it gets through the whole fuel system — not just the tank.
Job done.
How to store a generator
Storing your generator isn’t just about chucking a cover over it and forgetting it exists. Do it right, and it’ll start first go next time. Here’s your quick three-step guide.
Step 1: The pre-storage maintenance checklist
Give it a quick once-over before you stash it away. Here’s what to tick off:
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Change the oil if needed
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Clean or replace the air filter
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Check spark plugs
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Tighten loose bolts or fittings
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Wipe down the outside to remove dirt and dust
Treat it like a car going into storage — give it a bit of love first.
Step 2: Draining or stabilising your generator’s fuel
This part depends on how long you’re storing it.
If it’s just a few weeks, stabilise the fuel and let it run for a few minutes. Done.
If it’s going to be sitting for months, empty the tank. Then run the generator until it shuts off on its own — that clears the carburettor.
Dispose of leftover fuel properly. Pouring it in the garden or down the drain isn’t the answer.
Step 3: Protecting the engine
Oil in? Check.
Next, block off the air intake and exhaust with cloth or foam plugs to keep moisture and curious critters out. A light mist of rust inhibitor over exposed parts helps prevent corrosion — especially if you live near the coast.
Store it in a dry, covered spot, ideally off the ground. Use a breathable generator cover, not a plastic tarp.
Where to store generator when not in use
Choosing the right storage spot can make all the difference.
You want a place that’s dry, cool, and well-ventilated. Avoid areas with big temperature swings — condensation is a real issue. Moisture leads to rust, and rust leads to regrets.
A shed, workshop, or dedicated storage cabinet works well. If the floor’s concrete or prone to damp, place your generator on a timber pallet or rubber mat to keep it raised and dry.
Can you store a generator in the garage?
Yes, but it depends on how your garage is set up.
If it’s clean, dry, and well-ventilated, storing your generator in the garage is fine. Just don’t run it in there — not even for a few seconds. Carbon monoxide builds up fast and can be lethal.
Make sure it’s well away from anything flammable and store any petrol or oil in sealed, approved containers.
And if you’ve got curious kids or pets, make sure the generator’s tucked out of reach.
You might also like:
- Can I Leave Fuel in My Generator?
- Can You Have a Generator Outside?
- Can You Run a Generator on a Covered Patio?
- How Do Small Generators Work?
- Should Generators Be Kept Outside?
- Should You Leave a Generator on All Night?
- What Is the Australian Standard for Generators?
