Generator emits white smoke, especially on startup

Safety first: Prolonged white smoke may indicate serious engine issues. Operate in a ventilated area.

• Warm-up: Allow the generator to run under light load for several minutes to reach operating temperature. Some white smoke at cold start can be normal.
• Check coolant level: If coolant is disappearing and white smoke has a sweet smell, suspect a head gasket or coolant leak into cylinders—stop operation and contact a technician.
• Fuel quality: Drain and replace old or contaminated fuel. Water in diesel can cause white smoke.
• Injection timing/compression: Persistent white smoke with rough running requires professional checks of timing and compression.