🔧 Generator Keeps Going Off? Here’s How to Fix It in Nigeria

Man checking generator wiring while troubleshooting shutdown issue at home in Nigeria — practical power solutions from Elomart.

A working generator is a lifesaver in Nigeria. But nothing is more frustrating than when your generator suddenly cuts off — especially during an important football match, a Zoom meeting, or halfway through cooking dinner. If your generator keeps going off in Nigeria, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common issues Nigerians face with portable generators, whether it’s a Firman, Lutian, Elepaq, or Tiger model.

In this practical guide, we’ll break down:

  • Why your generator might be cutting off

  • How to diagnose and fix it yourself

  • When to call a technician

  • Tips to prevent future shutdowns

Whether you live in Lagos, Enugu, Port Harcourt, or Kano, the information in this article applies to all major generator brands in Nigeria and is backed by experience and expert advice. Let’s dive in.


⚠️ Common Reasons Your Generator Keeps Cutting Off

If your generator powers on but then dies after a few minutes — or shuts off completely while running — it usually means something is wrong with fuel delivery, engine health, or the electrical system. Below are the most likely culprits:

1. Low Engine Oil or Faulty Oil Sensor

Most modern generators come with a low oil sensor. If your oil is below the required level or if the sensor malfunctions, your generator may shut down automatically to protect the engine.

What to check:

  • Is there enough oil?

  • Is the oil dirty or past due for change?

  • Is the oil sensor wire loose or corroded?

Fix it:

  • Top up or change the oil (use SAE 10W-30 for most small gens)

  • Clean the oil sensor connector

  • Replace the sensor if faulty


2. Overload Protection Triggered

Generators are designed to shut off when they are overloaded. Plugging in too many appliances, or connecting high-wattage devices like pressing irons or water heaters, can exceed the gen’s capacity.

Symptoms:

  • Gen shuts off when you turn on a particular appliance

  • Burnt smell from sockets or wires

How to fix generator problems like this:

  • Check wattage ratings for your generator and appliances

  • Unplug non-essential items

  • Reset circuit breakers if tripped

  • Spread usage across multiple sockets


3. Fuel Flow Problems

Your generator needs clean, steady fuel flow to stay on. If the carburetor, fuel filter, or fuel line is blocked, the engine may sputter and die.

Signs:

  • Engine starts but dies within seconds

  • Visible dirt in fuel tank

  • Generator sounds rough or coughs before going off

What to do:

  • Drain and clean your fuel tank

  • Use fresh petrol (not the one from last year!)

  • Clean or replace the fuel filter

  • Remove the carburetor and clean it using carb cleaner


4. Spark Plug Trouble

A faulty or dirty spark plug can cause misfiring, weak ignition, or complete shutdown.

Look for:

  • Blackened or oily spark plug tip

  • Difficulty starting the gen

  • Gen dies shortly after starting

Fix it:

  • Remove the plug, clean with wire brush

  • Check the gap spacing (usually 0.7 – 0.8 mm)

  • Replace if worn out (cheap and easy to buy at Elomart)


5. Dirty Air Filter

An engine needs clean air for proper combustion. If your air filter is clogged, your generator may struggle and cut off due to poor airflow.

What to do:

  • Remove and inspect the air filter

  • Clean it with a dry brush or replace it

  • Always avoid running a gen with the air filter removed


6. Bad Fuel or Water in the Fuel

Bad or contaminated fuel (especially petrol mixed with kerosene) can choke your engine. Water can also enter your tank during rainy season or from poorly stored fuel.

Fix it:

  • Empty and clean your fuel tank

  • Use fresh, clean petrol only

  • Avoid buying black-market fuel


7. Exhaust Blockage or Engine Overheating

If the exhaust pipe is clogged or if the engine overheats due to poor ventilation, the generator may shut down unexpectedly.

How to fix it:

  • Clean out the exhaust pipe

  • Don’t run the generator near walls or indoors

  • Let the gen cool down between long runs


🧰 How to Diagnose the Issue Like a Pro

Before calling a technician, follow these step-by-step checks:

  1. Check oil level and condition

  2. Inspect fuel quality and tank

  3. Look at the spark plug

  4. Listen to engine sounds – is it smooth or knocking?

  5. Watch for warning lights or oil indicators

  6. Test under load – does it shut down only when appliances are connected?

Document what you find — it helps technicians diagnose quicker if you need extra help.


🔌 What to Do When Generator Keeps Going Off Under Load

This is a very specific but common issue. If your generator keeps going off when you plug in appliances, it’s usually due to one of the following:

  • Overload: appliance demand exceeds generator capacity

  • Poor voltage regulation: the AVR may be faulty

  • Weak alternator: the engine runs, but power generation is weak

  • Extension cord issue: low-quality cords cause voltage drop

Solutions:

  • Reduce load to 70% of gen capacity

  • Replace AVR (Voltage Regulator)

  • Use original cables with thick copper wires

  • Check with a multimeter for voltage drop


🛠 When to Call a Technician

Some generator issues are best left to experts. Call a qualified technician if:

  • The generator shuts off repeatedly despite basic fixes

  • You suspect alternator or engine coil damage

  • The generator has electrical wiring faults

  • It smells of burnt oil or fuel constantly

Elomart partners with trusted generator technicians nationwide. You can request servicing with your purchase or schedule a home visit.


✅ Generator Care Tips to Prevent Shutdowns

  1. Service every 3 months or after 100 hours of use

  2. Change oil regularly (especially after the first 20 hours of new gen use)

  3. Store fuel properly — in sealed containers, away from sunlight

  4. Start your generator weekly, even if not in use, to keep it active

  5. Buy only genuine spare parts from Elomart or certified dealers

  6. Don’t run your gen in enclosed spaces — this also prevents overheating and carbon monoxide risk


📦 Shop Reliable Generators at Elomart

At Elomart, we understand how frustrating it is when your generator cuts off unexpectedly. That’s why we stock only the most reliable brands built for Nigerian conditions — Firman, Lutian, Sumec, Elepaq, Haier Thermocool, and more.

Every product comes with:

  • A full manufacturer’s warranty

  • Genuine copper coil guarantee

  • Nationwide delivery

  • Spare parts and after-sale support

  • Expert advice tailored to your power needs

When you buy from Elomart, you’re buying peace of mind — no more surprises in the dark.

🎯 Conclusion: Know the Signs, Act Fast, Stay Powered

If your generator keeps going off in Nigeria, don’t panic. Most issues are common, easy to fix, and can be prevented with the right care. Understanding what’s going wrong helps you save time, money, and unnecessary stress.

Take charge of your power supply. With a little attention and the right support from Elomart, your generator will run smoothly every time — giving you reliable electricity, no matter what NEPA throws your way.

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