Free standby generator monthly test checklist
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A step-by-step monthly test procedure for building emergency standby generators (diesel). Covers automatic start on simulated mains failure, 30-minute run at rated speed, engine monitoring (oil pressure, coolant temperature, battery voltage), fuel level recording, automatic and manual transfer switch testing, controller alarm verification, exhaust system check, block heater and battery charger checks, hour meter and room temperature recording. Aligned with NFPA 110 and AS 2941 requirements. Includes fluid specifications, consumables list and technician sign-off. This page explains what the monthly test involves, how to perform it, and offers a free PDF-ready form you can download straight away.
Last updated: 2026-03-26 · MapTrack
Commercial Director
How to use: Fill equipment details (make, model, rated output, voltage), then work through each test action. Tick Done as each task is completed. Record readings in the notes column. Set the next test due date and sign off.
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- ✓ Includes fluid specs, consumables list and sign-off
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See the first part of the test procedure below. Enter your email above to download the full standby generator monthly test procedure (PDF-ready).
What is a standby generator monthly test?
A standby generator monthly test is a routine operational test performed every month on building emergency standby generators (typically diesel). It verifies that the generator will start automatically on mains failure, reach rated speed, run reliably for at least 30 minutes, and transfer power correctly via the automatic transfer switch. The monthly test is required by NFPA 110 (Emergency and Standby Power Systems) and AS 2941 (Fixed Fire Protection Installations) to ensure the generator is ready to provide emergency power when needed. Unlike an annual service (which involves replacing filters, oil and performing load testing), the monthly test is primarily a functional verification with fluid level checks and recording of operating parameters.
Benefits of monthly generator testing
- Reliability when it matters: monthly testing confirms the generator will start and transfer power automatically during a real mains failure, protecting life safety systems (fire pumps, emergency lighting, lifts).
- Early fault detection: checking oil pressure, coolant temperature, battery voltage and controller alarms each month catches developing issues before they cause a fail-to-start event.
- Prevents wet stacking: running the generator for 30 minutes at operating temperature prevents unburnt fuel from accumulating in the exhaust system, which degrades performance over time.
- Compliance: documented monthly test records demonstrate compliance with NFPA 110, AS 2941 and building authority requirements.
- Insurance protection: insurers may require evidence of monthly generator testing as a condition of coverage for business interruption or essential services.
- Reduced emergency costs: a monthly test costs nothing beyond labour and fuel. A generator failure during a real emergency can cost tens of thousands in damages, liability and lost revenue.
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Book a demo to see digital test procedures and compliance scheduling in MapTrack.
Test actions included in the monthly procedure
This test procedure covers 17 actions across 7 areas:
- Start-up: start generator on automatic transfer signal (simulate mains failure, verify auto-start within 10 seconds), run at rated speed for minimum 30 minutes.
- Engine monitoring: check oil pressure, coolant temperature, battery voltage, record fuel tank level.
- Transfer switch: test automatic transfer switch (auto transfer and retransfer), test manual transfer switch.
- Load and performance: check load bank test results if exercised under load this month.
- Controller and alarms: verify all controller alarms (common fault, mains failure, fail to start, high temp, low oil).
- Exhaust and ancillaries: check exhaust system, block heater, battery charger, fuel day tank and transfer pump.
- Records: record hour meter reading, generator room temperature, sign test log.
Fluid specifications
General fluid specifications for diesel standby generators. Monthly tests involve level checks only (no fluid changes).
| System | Type / Grade | Monthly Action |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel fuel | Automotive diesel (AS 3570) | Maintain full tank |
| Engine oil | 15W-40 CI-4 / CK-4 | Check level (do not change at monthly) |
| Coolant | 50/50 ethylene glycol | Check level |
Specifications are general guidelines. Always refer to the manufacturer's service manual for your specific make and model.
Parts and consumables
Have the following consumables ready before starting the monthly test:
- Diesel fuel (top-up to full tank)
- Engine oil (for top-up only if level is low)
- Coolant (for top-up only if level is low)
- Test log book and pen
No filters or parts are replaced during the monthly test. Full service items are covered in the annual service procedure.
How to perform a standby generator monthly test
- Notify building management that a generator test is about to commence. Check that the generator room is clear and safe to enter.
- Record the equipment details (make, model, rated output, voltage) and test date at the top of the form. Note the current hour meter reading.
- Check that the block heater is operating (the engine should be warm). Check the battery charger float voltage. Record the fuel tank level and top up if not full.
- Simulate a mains failure to trigger the automatic transfer signal. Verify the generator starts automatically within 10 seconds and the transfer switch transfers load to the generator.
- Allow the generator to run at rated speed for a minimum of 30 minutes. During the run, check engine oil pressure, coolant temperature and battery voltage. Verify all readings are within specification.
- Verify all generator controller alarms are functioning: common fault, mains failure, fail to start, high temperature and low oil pressure. Check the exhaust system for leaks and ensure the rain cap is operating.
- Test the manual transfer switch operation. Restore mains power and verify the automatic transfer switch retransfers load back to mains.
- Record the hour meter reading, generator room temperature and any defects or abnormalities in the notes section. Set the next monthly test date and sign the test log.
In MapTrack, you can schedule monthly tests and annual services, complete procedures on mobile and link every record to the generator. Book a demo to see how.
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Back to download formGenerator test and service hierarchy
Standby generator maintenance follows a tiered schedule where the annual service includes all monthly test items. This is called carry-forward or cumulative servicing.
Monthly - Operational test (you are here)
Auto-start, 30-minute run, engine monitoring, transfer switch test, alarm verification, fluid level checks. Estimated 45 minutes to 1 hour.
All monthly test items plus engine service (oil, filters, air filter, coolant), alternator insulation test, full load test (2 hours at 100%), safety shutdown tests, transfer switch service, fuel system service, battery load test, compliance inspection. Estimated 6-10 hours.
In MapTrack, you can configure monthly and annual service schedules and receive automatic alerts when each interval is due.
Frequently asked questions
- What is included in a standby generator monthly test?
- A standby generator monthly test includes starting the generator on an automatic transfer signal (simulating mains failure and verifying auto-start within 10 seconds), running at rated speed for a minimum of 30 minutes, checking engine oil pressure and coolant temperature, checking battery voltage, recording fuel tank level, testing the automatic and manual transfer switches, checking load bank test results (if applicable), verifying controller alarms (common fault, mains failure, fail to start, high temp, low oil), checking the exhaust system, block heater, battery charger and fuel day tank, and recording the hour meter reading and generator room temperature. It takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- How often should a standby generator be tested?
- Standby generators should be tested monthly per NFPA 110 (Emergency and Standby Power Systems) and AS 2941 (Fixed Fire Protection Installations). Monthly tests involve starting the generator, running for at least 30 minutes and verifying all automatic functions. Annual services include a full diesel engine service, alternator insulation test, full load test (100% rated output for minimum 2 hours), safety shutdown tests and compliance inspection. Some jurisdictions or building classifications may require more frequent testing.
- Why does the generator need to run for 30 minutes?
- Running the generator for a minimum of 30 minutes at rated speed allows the engine to reach full operating temperature, which prevents moisture build-up in the engine oil and exhaust system, exercises the fuel system and ensures the cooling system is functioning correctly. Short runs (under 15 minutes) can cause wet stacking in diesel engines, where unburnt fuel accumulates in the exhaust. NFPA 110 and AS 2941 both specify a minimum 30-minute run for monthly tests.
- Is the template free to use without MapTrack?
- Yes. Download and use the standby generator monthly test procedure for free. Open the file and use your browser's Print, then Save as PDF. No MapTrack account required. If you later want digital test procedures linked to each generator with scheduling, compliance tracking and alerts, we would be happy to show you MapTrack.
Need digital generator test procedures with compliance tracking?
Register every generator in MapTrack. Set up monthly test and annual service schedules, complete procedures on mobile, track compliance certificates and get automatic alerts when the next test is due.