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Imagine you are in the middle of a power outage, and you need to keep your lights, appliances, and devices running. You have a Generac generator, which is one of the best on the market, but it suddenly stops working. What do you do?
The answer may lie in the control board, the brain of your generator. The control board is responsible for starting, stopping, and monitoring your generator, as well as protecting it from damage. But sometimes, it can malfunction or fail, causing your generator to behave erratically or not work at all.
In this blog post, we will show you how to avoid and solve the most common control board problems that can affect your Generac generator. We will also give you some tips on how to maintain and replace your control board so you can enjoy an uninterrupted power supply from your generator.
What is a control board, and what types of boards are used by Generac?
A control board, also known as a circuit board, is a vital part of your generator that manages and regulates its functions. It receives information from sensors throughout the generator and uses that information to control the engine, monitor electrical output, and more. The control board is the brain of your generator, and it can affect its performance, reliability, and safety.
Generac generators use different types of control boards depending on the model and year of manufacture. Some of the most common ones are:
- The Generac controller assembly AC HSB (Affiliate Link).
- The Generac 2010 Nexus replacement control board kit (Affiliate Link).
1: Generac Controller Assembly AC HSB
This is a controller used in Generac Home Standby (HSB) generators. It is an essential part of the generator’s control system. The controller assembly manages and monitors the generator’s operation, including starting, stopping, and ensuring proper functioning.
It provides real-time information about the generator’s status, such as voltage output, frequency, and diagnostic codes, allowing users to monitor and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
The Generac Controller Assembly AC HSB plays a crucial role in the overall performance and reliability of Generac Home Standby Generators. According to Consumer Reports, Generac is the leading brand of home backup generators, and its HSB models are among the best in the market.
2: Generac 2010 Nexus Replacement Control Board Kit
This is a replacement kit for the original Nexus control board, which was used in some Generac HSB generators until 2010. It offers improved performance and features, such as wireless monitoring, remote control, and enhanced diagnostics.
The Nexus control board was designed to provide more user-friendly and advanced functionality for Generac HSB generators. However, some users reported issues with the Nexus control board, such as failure to start, overloading, voltage issues, and frequency problems.
Common Generac Control Board Problems
Some of the common problems that can affect the control board of your Generac generator are:
1: Failure to Start
Failing to start is one of the most frustrating issues you can experience with your generator. If you press the start button and nothing happens, the problem could be a faulty control board. Other potential causes include a dead battery, a low oil level, or a bad starter motor.
2: Overloading
Overloading happens when the generator is trying to supply more power than it can handle. This can cause the control board to overheat and malfunction, resulting in voltage and frequency fluctuations, circuit breaker trips, or shutdowns.
3: Voltage Issues
This is when the generator produces either too much or too little voltage. This can damage the appliances and devices connected to the generator, as well as the control board itself. The causes of voltage issues can include a faulty control board, a bad voltage regulator, or a loose connection.
4: Frequency Problems
This is when the generator produces either too high or too low a frequency. This can also harm the appliances and devices connected to the generator, as well as the control board itself. The causes of frequency problems can include a faulty control board, a bad governor, or a load imbalance.
How do I identify Generac Control Board problems?
If you suspect that your control board is causing problems with your generator, you need to diagnose the issue and find the root cause.
Here are some steps you can take to identify control board problems:
1. Troubleshooting
The first step is to check the basic functions of the generator, such as the battery, the oil level, the fuel supply, and the connections. You can also refer to the owner’s manual or the diagnostic codes displayed on the control panel to find out the possible causes of the problem.
2. Testing
The next step is to test the control board for continuity and voltage. You will need a multimeter and a wiring diagram to do this. You can also use a jumper wire to bypass the control board and see if the generator starts. If you are not comfortable with testing the control board, you can seek assistance from a qualified professional.
How do I fix Generac Control Board problems?
If you have identified an issue with your control board, you need to take steps to fix it. Here are some potential solutions:
1. Resetting the Control Board
In some cases, resetting the control board can solve the problem. To do this, simply switch off the generator and disconnect the battery. Wait for about 30 minutes before reconnecting the battery and switching on the generator.
2. Replacing the Control Board
If resetting the control board does not work or if the control board is damaged beyond repair, you will need to replace it with a new one. Make sure you buy the correct control board for your generator model and year. You can also contact Generac customer service or an authorized dealer for assistance.
Final Words
Generac control board problems can affect the performance and safety of your generator. Therefore, it is important to know how to diagnose and fix them. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can keep your generator running smoothly and efficiently.
We hope you found this blog post helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.
