Standby generators are permanently installed and connected to your home or business' natural gas line or liquid propane fuel source, along with an automatic transfer switch to support quick power generation.

Refer to the Quick Operation Manual for basic Start-up and Shut-down instructions.

Controller

This standby generator is equipped with a GC-1030 Series Controller and may be labeled as GC-1031, GC-1032, or GC-1032 R.

Operating Modes

The GC-1030 Series Controller has two, (2) modes of operation:

• Auto Mode = normal mode of operation; generator is ready to monitor for a utility outage, and transfer power.
• Manual Mode = mode used when performing service and maintenance, where the generator will be started and stopped manually using the controller keypad; generator WILL NOT detect a utility outage and transfer power automatically in this mode.
  • In Manual mode, on first start, the engine runs in Low Idle Mode (LIM). When the “Start/Select” button is pressed again the engine runs at normal set speed.

Status LED

The generator has a Status LED to indicate three, (3) operational states:

• Blue solid light = Unit ready for operation (controller in AUTO Mode)
• Blue flashing light = Unit notification or fault alarm (review message on controller)
• No light = Unit controller in MANUAL Mode, no battery power, or ON/OFF switch in OFF position (on exterior of generator)

Automatic Operation Items

The GC-1030 Series Controller has a built-in exerciser, as well as sensors and timers that are capable of automatically starting and stopping the generator.

Auto Exercise Timers

The automatic exercise timer is configured at the factory, and may be adjusted at the time of installation. The following configurable parameters are available:

• Cycle = 0.1 min (default), 5 min, 10 min, 15 min, 20 min
• Occurrence = Weekly (default), or Monthly
• Day = Monday, Tuesday (default), Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Time (of Day) = 14 hr 00 min (default)

Refer to your Operation’s Manual for steps to adjust this timer from the controller Configuration menu.

Additional Sensors & Timers

The generator’s controller monitors utility voltage. If the utility voltage drops below a preset level, the controller signals the engine to crank and start. When the utility voltage restores above a preset voltage level, the engine receives signals to shut down.

Utility Voltage Dropout Sensor

This sensor monitors the utility source voltage.

• If the utility source voltage drops below approximately 88% of the nominal supply voltage, the sensor initiates a timer.
• The engine cranks and starts once the timer has expired.

Utility Voltage Pickup Sensor

This sensor monitors the utility voltage. When the utility voltage restores above approximately 90% of the nominal source voltage, a shut-down timer initiates and the engine cools down.

Engine Cool-down Timer

This timer is initiated when the controller signals the generator to shutdown. The engine enters a five-minute cooldown period and operates at Low Idle Mode (LIM).

During an Outage (Sequence of Events)

The standby generator system operation is not adjustable and undergoes sequencing by sensors and timers on the controller in the following manner:

1. Utility Fail
   The generator senses when the utility voltage is below the preset amount. The engine start sequence initiates after a 6-second time delay.
2. Engine Warm-Up
   This is the time delay for engine warm-up before transfer.
3. Transfer
   The transfer from the utility to the generator supply occurs after the voltage is above set levels. The generator control board will send a transfer signal to the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS), switching to generator power. The minimum engine operation time is 5 minutes after transfer.
4. Re-transfer Timer
   Re-transfer from the generator to the utility power is approximately 10 seconds after the utility voltage supply is above pickup level and the minimum operation time is completed. The System must operate for a minimum 5 minutes before re-transferring.
5. Engine Cool-down
   When the system senses the utility power has returned, the load transfers to the utility source and the engine enters a five-minute cooldown period after re-transfer. When finished, the generator returns to a standby state, ready for the next outage.

Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance improves the performance and extends the life of the generator.

• Keep the area around the generator clean and free of debris.
• Regularly check the generator’s Status LED to confirm system operation state.
• Confirm the generator’s weekly exercise runs successfully to ensure it is functioning correctly.

System Maintenance

Your generator warranty covers you against product defects. These systems on the generator require the following routine maintenance activities:

Engine Maintenance

• Engine Maintenance (Engine Oil, Filter, Air Cleaner)
• Valve Clearance
• Electronic Governor Check
• Service Spark Plugs
• Exhaust System Maintenance
• Fuel System
• Mixer and Throttle Control Device

Electrical System Maintenance

• 12V Battery

Maintenance Schedule

For information on when to perform specific maintenance on your standby generator, please refer to your Operator’s Manual.

These troubleshooting basics are for informational purposes only. Always consult the generator's installation and operation manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. If you are not comfortable performing any of these tasks, contact a qualified service technician.

Controller Notifications

The generator operates for long periods of time without an operator present. As a result, the system features Notifications under certain conditions.

Notification: Weekly Exercise is Skipped (Temperature is Below 40 deg F)

Status LED: Blue solid light
Controller ALARM: “Auto Exercise Skipped”
Symptom: System controller configuration is configured to skip the automatic exercise when ambient temperature is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (default configuration). This is a notification only, and does not affect system operation during a utility outage.

Notification: 45 Minute Exercise

Status LED: Blue solid light
Controller ALARM: No alarm present
Symptom: Standby generator performs semi-annual automatic 45 minute exercise. This is a notification only, and does not affect system operation during a utility outage.

Notification: Maintenance Due

Status LED: Blue flashing light
Controller ALARM: “Maintenance Due”
Symptom: Dealer/ Technician configured controller to notify user of next maintenance interval, based on elapsed engine hours AND programmed due date (whichever comes first). Find an Authorized Dealer in your area for assistance.

Controller Alarms

Nearly 30 different Alarms are programmed on the Generator Controller. The standby generator includes sensors that automatically stop the generator in potentially damaging conditions, such as low oil pressure, high temperature, overspeed, and other conditions.

Clearing an Alarm

Push the up and down arrows simultaneously to clear an alarm. If the controller continues to display an Alarm after clearing and attempting to operate the generator, contact an Authorized Dealer in your area for service.

Common Service Scenarios

The installation and operation manual includes a Troubleshooting Table with potential service scenarios similar to the items listed below (including Problem - Cause - Correction). Use the Dealer Locator to connect with an Authorized Dealer in your area, if you are not comfortable performing these tasks.

Generator Won't Start

No Power at All (Status LED, Controller)

• Check the main power switch on the generator.
• Inspect the battery. Ensure connections are clean and tight. Charge or replace if necessary.
• Contact a qualified technician, to inspect the transfer switch (e.g. correct position, wiring connections, etc).

Generator Does not Exercise

• Confirm the GC-1030 Series Controller is in AUTO Mode.
• Verify the Auto Exercise Timer is configured properly.
• Review the Alarm message on the GC-1030 Series Controller.
• Contact a qualified technician for further troubleshooting.

Engine Cranks but Doesn't Start

• Verify the generator’s 15 amp fuse is installed and operational. Replace if necessary.
• Check the fuel shut-off valve is open (if installed), and check for low fuel pressure.
• Check for spark. (Consult your owner's manual for instructions – Caution: Working with spark plugs can be dangerous).
• Check the air filter. Clean or replace if dirty.
• Contact a qualified technician for further troubleshooting.

Engine Starts (Runs for 10 sec) but Shuts Off Immediately

• Confirm the correct fuel profile and fuel settings are in place.
• Check for low fuel pressure.
• Contact a qualified service technician to confirm generator output voltage, and/or check for a faulty sensor (e.g., oil pressure, temperature).

Generator Does Not Transfer Power to Home/Site

Generator is in a Warm-up 20 or 50 Second Time Delay, or an Issue is Present

• Verify the circuit breaker on the generator is in the ON position, and/or hasn't tripped.
• Contact a qualified service technician to verify proper wiring between the Generator and ATS, and system components are operational.

Generator Running Problems

No or Low Power Output

• Verify the circuit breaker on the generator hasn't tripped. Reset if necessary.
• Check for overloaded circuits. Reduce the load on the generator.
• Contact a qualified service technician to check the engine speed, and/or check the voltage regulator.

Excessive Noise

• Confirm there is no debris present potentially blocking the generator’s air intake areas.
• Confirm the correct fuel profile and fuel settings are in place.
• Check for low fuel pressure.
• Check the air filter. Clean or replace if dirty.
• Contact a qualified service technician to check for loose parts, and/or check the muffler.

NOTICE: The items in this section are to only be used by qualified service personnel.

A number of resources are available to support installers and technicians performing service on Briggs & Stratton standby generators.

Service & Troubleshooting Resources

Use the button below to access common standby generator troubleshooting information, documentation, and resources for this unit.

The Briggs & Stratton Power Portal

ThePowerPortal.com is a secure, password protected website created in partnership with Briggs & Stratton dealers, distributors, suppliers and customers. This online resource allows for access to product, engine, parts, warranty, educational, and account information.

Technician Accounts

Technician Accounts are created and managed under the PowerPortal primary account (DDM #). These accounts are well suited for technicians or salespersons needing access to the following items:

• Interactive web based parts look-up for all brands (illustrated parts lists)
• Robust technical support documentation including operators & installation manuals, service bulletins, and repair manuals
• Annual maintenance checklists for air-cooled and liquid-cooled standby generators

NOTE: Technician accounts ARE NOT able to place orders or file warranties, and ARE empowered to access the tools necessary to support your customers!

If you need assistance creating a technician account, click the Contact Us button below.