Typical Generac E-codes and faults

Typical Generac E-codes and faults

Purpose of the E-codes on controllers

The E-codes in a Generac generator serve as diagnostic indicators, helping users and service technicians quickly identify and troubleshoot issues that may arise during operation. Each E-code corresponds to a specific condition or fault detected by the generator's controller, providing valuable insight into the health and performance of the system.

These E-codes cover a range of potential issues, including engine faults, voltage irregularities, sensor failures, wiring errors, and more. By displaying the appropriate E-code, the generator communicates the nature of the problem, allowing users to take appropriate action, such as performing maintenance tasks or contacting a service provider for further assistance.

Understanding the E-codes can significantly streamline the troubleshooting process, minimizing downtime and ensuring the generator operates reliably when needed most. Additionally, Generac often provides detailed documentation and support resources to accompany the E-codes, further empowering users to address issues effectively and maintain their generator in optimal condition.

E-codes Table

milliseconds
Displayed AlarmAlarm/Warninge-Code BreakdownDescription
Controller FaultALARMNo E-code on HSB
OvercrankALARM1100Condition - Engine Cranks but will not Start (5 crank attempts)
Unit turns over but will not start. Controller is receiving signal on Wire 18.
OverspeedALARM1200Prolonged (60 Hz on a 50 Hz unit, 72Hz on 60Hz unit)
Over specified Hz for 3 seconds. Possible cause: Stepper motor/mixer body assembly issue.
OverspeedALARM1205Instantaneous (62 Hz on a 50 Hz unit, 75Hz on 60Hz unit)
Over specified Hz for 0.1 second (100 milliseconds). Possible cause: Stepper motor/ mixer body assembly issue.
OverspeedALARM1207Monitors zero cross timing of the AVR to determine the alternator frequency which is a speed indicator. Set for 150 milliseconds of 4500 rpm or higher. Used if the normal ignition pulse sequence(s) are not being seen by the controller.
Low Oil PressureALARM1300Occurred while running
The default Extended alarm for low oil pressure. Check oil level and pressure.
High TemperatureALARM1400Condition - Air Flow Impeded / Flow Issue
Check the inlet/outlet for debris. Check temperature sensor and wiring.
RPM SensorALARM1501Twin Cylinder+Running
Twin Cylinder Running faults to RPM Sensor Loss. Possible Causes: air pocket in fuel line, dirty fuel, missing ignition pulse (loss of one of the primary coils).
RPM SensorALARM1505Twin Cylinder+Cranking
Twin Cylinder Cranking faults to RPM sensor loss Possible Cause: starter motor issue, missing ignition pulse (loss of one of the primary coils).
RPM SensorALARM1511Single Cylinder+Running
Single Cylinder Running RPM sensor loss Possible Causes: air pocket in fuel line, dirty fuel. Loss of ignition pulse.
RPM SensorALARM1515Single Cylinder+Cranking
Single Cylinder Cranking faults to RPM sensor loss Possible Cause: starter motor and/or engine issue. Loss of ignition pulse.
UnderspeedALARM1600Condition - Unit is Overloaded (55 Hz for 60 Hz for 30 sec, 40 Hz for 50 Hz unit
Unit is Overloaded slowing engine speed, fuel supply low or throttle control problem.
UnderspeedALARM1603Underspeed
The engine never comes up to 3600 RPM.
OvervoltageALARM1800Prolonged Over-Voltage
UndervoltageALARM1900Prolonged Under-Voltage
Undervoltage due to loss of voltage. Below 80% for 10+ seconds)
UndervoltageALARM1901Instantaneous
Undervoltage due to sudden loss of voltage. (Voltage less than 15 sec 2 sec+)
UndervoltageALARM1902Both Zero Crosses missing
Undervoltage due to faulty excitation winding, or zero cross circuit, or circuit in general. Possible cause: loose wiring, field boost hardware failure. (Both zero cross missing greater than 1.5 sec)
UndervoltageALARM1906Single Zero Cross missing
Undervoltage due to faulty excitation winding, zero cross circuit, or circuit in general. Possible cause: field boost hardware failure. (One zero cross missing greater than 1.5 sec)
Wiring ErrorALARM2099Mis-wired
Customer connection low voltage and high voltage wires are crossed.
Overload Remove LoadALARM2100Overloaded - Default (Output Current Method)
Unit is overloaded. One or both CT(s) detecting an overload condition. Check transfer switch loadshed functionality. (Change load dynamics or utilize loadshed).
Undervoltage OverloadALARM2299Unit was overloaded and attempted to start with a large load connected. The unit can not ramp up the generator voltage to its normal target voltage value if it starts with a large load connected
Stepper OvercurrentALARM2399Current flow in stepper coil(s) above specification
Fuse ProblemALARM2400*Missing / Damaged Fuse
The 7.5 amp Controller Fuse is missing or blown (open).
*Firmware version 1.11 and older only
Aux ShutdownALARM2800External shut down circuit is open.
Low BatteryWARNINGCondition->Battery less than 12.1 Volts for 60 seconds
Battery ProblemWARNINGCondition->More than 16 Volts of battery voltage or 600 milliamperes or more of charge current at the end of an 18 hour charge
Charger WarningWARNINGLess than 12.5 volts of battery voltage at the end of a 18 hour charge
Charger Missing ACWARNINGAC power is missing from the battery charger input
Service ScheduleService Schedule A 200hours 2 years
Service Schedule B 400 Hours 4 years
OvercrankALARM1101Engine/Starter Problem
Limiting number of cranking cycles to protect the starter motor.
Overload Remove LoadALARM2102Overloaded
Unit re-cranks 5 times when load is applied, engine dies (0 RPM) and has low voltage (< 180V)
Overload Remove LoadALARM2103Overloaded
Unit has run and attempted to accept load 10 times, could not accept due to overload condition

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