Generac

Low Coolant Level

Coolant below the safe operating level. Liquid-cooled generators only.

Code 2720
Low Coolant Level

Need a technician? Skip the troubleshooting — open a service ticket and we'll handle it.

Safety first

⚠ SAFETY FIRST: Disconnect battery (negative lead first) before inspecting internal components. Never work on a generator that may auto-start.

Overview

What 2720 means

Coolant below the safe operating level. Liquid-cooled generators only.

Coolant loss through a slow external leak (hose, radiator, water pump)

Internal coolant leak (head gasket failure — coolant burns off)

Normal evaporation of coolant over time (coolant is mostly water)

Faulty coolant level sensor (false alarm)

Improper coolant mixture (too much water, freezes and cracks components)

Radiator pressure cap failure allowing coolant to escape

Step-by-step workflow

Follow the diagnostic and reset sequence

1

Allow Engine to Cool Before Opening Radiator

CHECK

⚠️ DANGER: Never open the radiator cap on a hot engine. Pressurized hot coolant can erupt and cause severe burns. Allow at least 30 minutes of cooling time.

The cooling system operates under pressure (typically 15–18 PSI). Even after the engine stops, the coolant remains pressurized and hot for 20–30 minutes.
2

Check Coolant Level at Reservoir

CHECK

Most liquid-cooled Generac generators have a translucent coolant overflow reservoir with MIN and MAX markings. Check this first — it is safe to view without opening the radiator cap.

Coolant level should be between MIN and MAX on the reservoir when cold. If the reservoir is empty, the main radiator may also be low.
3

Top Up Coolant

ACTION

If coolant is below MIN, add the correct coolant mixture. Never add plain water long-term — it dilutes corrosion inhibitors and lowers the boiling point.

Use a 50/50 pre-mixed coolant (ethylene glycol / water) or mix concentrate with distilled water. Never mix green and orange/pink coolant types. Check your owner's manual for the correct specification. Add slowly to the reservoir — do not open the main radiator cap unless the reservoir is completely empty.
4

Inspect for Leaks

CHECK

Topping up coolant without finding the leak source means the level will drop again. Inspect all coolant system components for signs of leakage.

Check: radiator hoses (cracks, soft spots, clamps), radiator core (green/orange staining), water pump (weep hole drip), radiator pressure cap (worn seal), head gasket area (white exhaust smoke indicates internal leak).
5

Test Coolant Sensor

ACTION

If coolant level is confirmed correct but alarm persists, the coolant level sensor may be faulty.

Coolant level sensors can be tested with a multimeter for continuity. A confirmed false alarm from a faulty sensor should still be repaired promptly — the sensor is a critical safety protection device.
6

Clear Fault & Test

RESET

After correcting coolant level and addressing any leaks, clear the alarm.

Evolution: Press OFF/Reset. Nexus: Press OFF → Enter. Monitor coolant temperature gauge and reservoir level during the first 15 minutes of operation.
Evolution Controller
Evolution Controller
Nexus Controller
Nexus Controller

After reset

Did the code clear?

Yes — code cleared

The code cleared and the unit returned to standby. Log the incident, confirm ready-to-run status, and monitor the next exercise cycle.

No — code returned

If the code returns immediately, stop resetting and move into service. The issue likely needs inspection of wiring, switches, or a controller-level component.

Need direct help?

Move from troubleshooting into the right support path.

Use the same workflow page to open a ticket, book service, or route into a broader consultation if the issue needs parts, diagnostics, or scheduling.

Prevention

Best practices and next checks

Check Coolant Level Monthly

Inspect the overflow reservoir monthly. Any level drop between checks indicates a slow leak.

Annual Cooling System Inspection

Hoses degrade from heat cycles. Replace all coolant hoses every 5 years as preventative maintenance.

Get a Maintenance Plan

A&A Power Generators checks coolant level, hose condition, and leak points at every service visit. 888-991-4500

Use Correct Coolant Mixture

50/50 premixed coolant provides freeze protection to -34°F and proper corrosion inhibitor concentration.

Replace Radiator Cap Every 5 Years

A worn pressure cap allows coolant to escape, causing gradual level loss.

Enable Mobile Link Alerts

Receive instant Low Coolant Level notifications via the Generac Mobile Link app.

Get a Maintenance Plan

Let A&A Power Generators handle all preventative maintenance for your generator.

Still need help?

A&A Power can take it from here.

If the issue persists after following the workflow, route the unit into ticket, appointment, or consultation support so the team can take over with the right service path.