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.
Do not get left in the dark!
Generac
Coolant below the safe operating level. Liquid-cooled generators only.
Need a technician? Skip the troubleshooting — open a service ticket and we'll handle it.
⚠ SAFETY FIRST: Disconnect battery (negative lead first) before inspecting internal components. Never work on a generator that may auto-start.
Overview
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
⚠️ 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.
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.
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.
Topping up coolant without finding the leak source means the level will drop again. Inspect all coolant system components for signs of leakage.
If coolant level is confirmed correct but alarm persists, the coolant level sensor may be faulty.
After correcting coolant level and addressing any leaks, clear the alarm.
After reset
The code cleared and the unit returned to standby. Log the incident, confirm ready-to-run status, and monitor the next exercise cycle.
If the code returns immediately, stop resetting and move into service. The issue likely needs inspection of wiring, switches, or a controller-level component.
Prevention
Inspect the overflow reservoir monthly. Any level drop between checks indicates a slow leak.
Hoses degrade from heat cycles. Replace all coolant hoses every 5 years as preventative maintenance.
A&A Power Generators checks coolant level, hose condition, and leak points at every service visit. 888-991-4500
50/50 premixed coolant provides freeze protection to -34°F and proper corrosion inhibitor concentration.
A worn pressure cap allows coolant to escape, causing gradual level loss.
Receive instant Low Coolant Level notifications via the Generac Mobile Link app.
Let A&A Power Generators handle all preventative maintenance for your generator.
Still need help?
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.