Electric Generator Battery Guide

Just as a car requires a battery to spark the ignition process, a standby generator needs a battery to start its engine. If a standby generator battery is not working, the unit becomes little more than an expensive lawn ornament. 

A standby generator requires a 12-volt battery, the same type found in a car. When purchasing a home standby generator, it is advisable to purchase a battery at the same time to avoid hassles and the potential risks of power outages. 

Buying Generator Batteries Online 

A setback with buying 12-volt batteries online is the shipping charge. This is another reason why it is best to buy a battery at the same time the generator is purchased. 

Oftentimes, the two can be bundled together to avoid paying a separate shipping charge for just the battery. 

Buying Generator Batteries in Stores 

12V batteries can be found in auto supply stores, as they are the same ones used in a car. It is important to buy a compatible battery for the specific generator brand and size. 

• Generac: Group 26-R (540cca) 
• Kohler: Group 51 (500cc) 
• Briggs: Group 26-R 

Generator Battery Maintenance 

Most home standby generator batteries are "Wet Cell" batteries, meaning they transmit electrical current via acid-covered lead plates submerged in electrolyte. 

To ensure they operate at full capacity, the batteries should be regularly checked and topped off using distilled water if necessary. This prevents the cells from drying out. 

Cold Weather Kits 

Generator batteries can malfunction if they get too cold during the winter. This could be devastating if a blizzard or heavy winter storm knocks out the power. 

Investing in a cold-weather kit ensures that a home standby generator starts as it should during extremely cold weather. These kits typically include battery warmers and oil heaters that provide the engine with the support needed to fire up easily.