Complete Guide: Preparing Your Generator for the Canadian Winter 2026

Why winterizing your generator is crucial

Canadian winters are unpredictable. Between ice storms, high winds, and heavy snowfall, power outages can occur at any time. Having a generator ready to go can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dangerous situation for your family.

At Genexpert, we see customers every year who contact us urgently because their generator refuses to start in the middle of a storm. The good news? With proper preparation, you can avoid this scenario.

The 7 essential steps to prepare your Westinghouse generator

1. Check and change the engine oil

Oil is the lifeblood of your generator. Before winter, check the oil level and color. If it's dark or contains particles, it's time for a change. Use a 5W-30 synthetic oil for cold Canadian temperatures—it remains fluid even at -30°C.

Pro tip: Run your generator for 5 minutes after changing the oil to properly lubricate all components.

2. Inspect and clean the air filter

A clogged air filter reduces performance by 20 to 30%. Remove it, tap it to remove dust, and replace it if it's too dirty. We stock Westinghouse air filter kits for all models.

3. Test the battery and the electric starter

Cold weather kills batteries. Check the charge with a voltmeter (it should read 12.6V or higher). Clean the terminals with a wire brush and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.

If your electric starter is showing signs of weakness, replace it now rather than waiting for the first storm.

4. Stabilize the fuel

Gasoline degrades in 30 days. Add a fuel stabilizer to your tank and run the generator for 10 minutes to circulate the product throughout the system. This protects your carburetor and injectors during the months of inactivity.

For dual-fuel and tri-fuel models: Also check your propane connections and test the switching between fuels.

5. Check the CO sensor

All our Westinghouse generators are equipped with a carbon monoxide sensor – a life-saving technology. Test it according to the instructions in the manual. If the indicator light does not illuminate correctly, contact us immediately.

6. Inspect the cables and connections

Inspect all electrical cables for cracks or wear. Check that connections are tight. Poor contact can cause dangerous sparks or damage your appliances.

7. Perform a full load test

Don't just start your generator – test it under real load. Plug in a few appliances (refrigerator, space heater, lights) and let it run for 30 minutes. This will ensure it can handle your actual power consumption.

What power output is needed to stay warm during the winter?

Choosing the right generator depends on your essential needs:

• 5000 - 7000W : Ideal for basic needs (refrigerator, a few lights, chargers)
• 9,000 - 11,500W : Perfect for an average home with supplemental electric heating - discover our Westinghouse iGen11000DFc
• 14,500W+ : For large houses or if you want to power your central heating system

Advantages of tri-fuel generators for winter

Our Westinghouse tri-fuel models offer unparalleled flexibility in winter:

• Gasoline : Easy to find in an emergency
• Propane : Does not degrade, perfect for long-term storage
• Natural gas : Continuous supply if you are connected to the network

This versatility ensures you will never run out of fuel, even during fuel shortages like those sometimes seen after major storms.

Where to store your generator this winter

Important: NEVER operate your generator indoors, even in a garage with the door open. Carbon monoxide is deadly.

For storage:

• Keep it in a dry place, away from snow.
• Use a breathable cover (not plastic, which traps moisture).
• Make sure you have easy access for a quick start
• Provide a clear outdoor space for use

Winter maintenance schedule

October: Full inspection and preparation (it's now!)
November-March: Monthly 15-minute load test
After each use: Quick check of the oil and fuel
April: Complete post-winter maintenance

Spare parts to keep on hand

Before the storms arrive, make sure you have:

• Spare engine oil (at least 2 liters)
• Replacement air filter
• Spark plugs
• Fuel stabilizer
• Spare fuses

We have all original Westinghouse parts in stock at Genexpert.

Need help? We're here.

If you're unsure whether you can perform these checks yourself, or if you'd prefer an expert to handle them, contact our team. We know every Westinghouse model inside and out.

Don't wait for the first storm to discover your generator needs attention. Take two hours now to prepare it, and you'll have peace of mind all winter.

Don't have a generator yet? Check out our full range of Westinghouse generators - from compact models to high-power systems, all equipped with CO detection technology for your safety.

Stay warm and safe this winter! ❄️