Generator Won't Start? We're Available 24/7
Fast Emergency Repair When Your Backup Power Fails
Emergency Service Available Now
When your generator fails during a power outage or won't start when you need it most, every minute counts. We provide 24/7 emergency repair service throughout San Diego East County.
(619) 443-7693Signs You Need Emergency Generator Repair
Don't wait - these symptoms require immediate professional service
⚠Won't Start During Outage
Generator fails to activate when utility power goes out - the most critical emergency requiring immediate service
⚠Frequent Shutdowns
Generator starts but shuts down after seconds/minutes - indicates overload, low oil, or control board issues
⚠Rough Running / Surging
Engine runs unevenly, surges, or backfires - fuel system problems, carburetor issues, or governor malfunction
⚠Error Codes Displayed
Controller shows error codes or warning lights - indicates detected faults requiring professional diagnosis
⚠Won't Exercise Cycle
Generator skips weekly self-test cycle or fails to complete exercise - early warning of developing problems
⚠Unusual Noises or Smoke
Knocking, rattling, grinding sounds or smoke during operation - serious mechanical issues requiring immediate shutdown
Our Emergency Response Process
Fast, professional service to restore your backup power protection
Call Immediately
Contact us 24/7 at (619) 443-7693. Describe symptoms: won't start, running rough, shutting down, error codes.
Emergency Dispatch
Technician dispatched immediately with diagnostic equipment and common parts. Average East County response: 1-3 hours.
On-Site Diagnosis
Comprehensive testing: battery, starter, fuel system, spark, compression, control board. Identify root cause.
Repair & Restore
Complete repair with genuine Generac parts. Test under load. Verify automatic operation. Restore backup power protection.
Common Emergency Generator Problems We Fix
Won't Start / No Power
Dead battery, faulty starter motor, control board failure, fuel delivery problems, or automatic transfer switch issues preventing generator from activating during outages.
Starts But Shuts Down
Low oil shutdown, overload condition, overheating, fuel starvation, air filter blockage, or safety sensor malfunction causing immediate or delayed shutdown.
Rough Running / Poor Performance
Carburetor problems, clogged fuel injectors, spark plug fouling, valve adjustment needed, governor malfunction, or voltage regulation issues affecting power quality.
Error Codes / Warning Lights
Controller displaying fault codes for RPM sensor, oil pressure, temperature, charger failure, overcrank, underspeed/overspeed, or communication errors requiring diagnosis.
Transfer Switch Problems
Automatic transfer switch won't engage, stuck in utility or generator position, contactor failure, or control wiring issues preventing power transfer.
Fuel System Failures
Gas valve won't open, regulator failure, fuel filter clogged, propane low pressure, or natural gas supply interruption preventing engine from running.
What to Do While Waiting for Emergency Service
Document Symptoms
Note exactly what's happening: When did problem start? Any error codes displayed? Unusual sounds, smells, or smoke? Does it start at all? How long does it run?
Check Basic Items
Look for simple causes: Circuit breakers tripped? Fuel shutoff valve open (propane systems)? Battery terminals tight? Display panel showing messages? Don't attempt complex repairs.
Reduce Electrical Load
If generator starts but shuts down, turn off major appliances temporarily: AC, electric water heater, electric range. This reduces load and may allow generator to run until we arrive.
Prepare for Service Call
Clear access path to generator. Have generator model and serial number ready if possible (on generator data plate). Note when last professional maintenance was performed.
East County Emergency Generator Service
Peak Power Systems has served San Diego East County for nearly 40 years, providing emergency generator repair throughout Alpine, Jamul, Julian, Lakeside, Ramona, Descanso, Pine Valley, Boulevard, and Campo. Our service trucks are stocked with common Generac parts and diagnostic equipment for on-site repairs. We understand that generator failures during PSPS events or storm outages create genuine emergencies - especially for families with medical equipment, well water systems, livestock, or refrigerated medications. Our technicians are factory-trained on Generac systems and experienced with the unique challenges of rural properties, extreme weather conditions, and extended backup power requirements common in East County.
Emergency dispatch to most East County locations
Problems diagnosed and fixed during first visit
East County generator emergencies we resolve
Emergency Generator Repair Questions
How quickly can you respond to generator emergencies in East County?
Average emergency response time for San Diego East County is 1-3 hours, depending on your location and technician availability. Alpine, Lakeside, and Ramona typically see fastest response (1-2 hours). More remote locations like Julian, Descanso, Pine Valley, Boulevard, and Campo may take 2-3 hours. We prioritize life-safety situations (medical equipment dependence, extreme weather, livestock water). During widespread PSPS events affecting thousands of customers, response times may extend. Call (619) 443-7693 immediately for emergency dispatch.
How much does emergency generator repair cost?
Emergency generator repair costs in East County depend on diagnosis and required parts. Service call with diagnosis typically starts $150-250. Common repairs: battery replacement $150-300, starter motor $300-500, control board $400-800, automatic transfer switch repair $300-600. For comparison, see our generator cost guide (/guides/generator-cost-san-diego) which covers repair vs replacement considerations. We provide diagnosis and quote before proceeding with repair. Emergency service rates apply for after-hours, weekend, and holiday calls.
How can I prevent emergency generator repairs?
Most emergency generator repairs are preventable with proper maintenance. Follow our recommended generator maintenance schedule (/guides/generator-maintenance-schedule) including annual professional service, monthly visual inspections, and pre-fire season checks. Common preventable issues include dead batteries (3-5 year replacement), clogged fuel filters, and corroded connections. For fire season preparation, see our fire season power planning guide (/guides/fire-season-power-planning). Regular maintenance costs $250-400 annually - far less than emergency repairs averaging $300-800.
Can you repair generators during power outages?
Yes, we perform emergency generator repairs during active power outages - that's when you need service most urgently. Our technicians carry battery-powered diagnostic equipment, portable lighting, and hand tools for field repairs without utility power. We can diagnose most problems, replace common failure parts (battery, starter, control boards, relays), and restore generator operation while grid is down. Some repairs requiring welding or specialized shop equipment may need temporary solutions until utility power returns. Priority goes to getting your generator operational for critical backup power needs.
What if you can't fix my generator on-site?
If emergency repair can't be completed on-site (major engine damage, unavailable parts, complex diagnostics needed), we provide temporary solutions when possible: manual generator starting procedures, portable generator rental coordination, or electrical panel modifications for safe operation until complete repair. For generators requiring shop service or replacement, we expedite parts ordering and schedule follow-up service ASAP. Many repairs (85%) are completed during initial emergency visit. Extended repairs may qualify for loaner generator depending on circumstances and availability.
Do you service generators you didn't install?
Yes, we provide emergency repair service for all generator brands regardless of who performed installation: Generac, Kohler, Briggs & Stratton, Cummins, Champion, and others. Peak Power Systems is an authorized Generac dealer with factory training, but our technicians are experienced with all major backup generator systems. We stock common Generac parts on service trucks; other brands may require parts ordering causing repair delays. For best emergency service capability, we recommend scheduling annual maintenance on non-Generac units to identify problems before they become failures.
Should I try to repair my generator myself during an emergency?
No - generator repairs require specialized knowledge, diagnostic equipment, and safety precautions. DIY attempts often worsen problems or create dangerous situations (gas leaks, electrical hazards, engine damage). Generators involve high voltage electricity, natural gas/propane fuel systems, and complex electronic controls. Simple maintenance (checking oil, clearing debris) is safe, but troubleshooting, disassembly, or electrical work should be left to professionals. Improper repairs void warranties and may cause catastrophic failure. Call (619) 443-7693 for emergency service - it's safer and faster than DIY approaches.
Need Emergency Generator Repair Right Now?
Call us 24/7 for fast response throughout East County
Emergency Repair Pricing
24/7 emergency service throughout East County
Diagnostic Visit
On-site troubleshooting
- Same-day response
- Full diagnosis
- Repair estimate
- Applied to repair
Common Repairs
Battery, starter, sensors
- Parts in stock
- Same-visit repair
- Test under load
- Warranty on work
Get an exact quote for your property with a free on-site assessment
After-hours and remote location fees may apply. Major repairs quoted on-site.
When Your Generator Needs Emergency Service
Generator failures during PSPS events leave your family without power when you need it most. Our 24/7 emergency service responds throughout East County including Alpine, Ramona, Julian, and backcountry areas with average response times of 1-3 hours.
Most emergency repairs are preventable with regular annual maintenance. If your generator hasn't been serviced recently, schedule maintenance before fire season to avoid emergency calls when technicians are busiest.
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Emergency Generator Service Areas
24/7 emergency response throughout East County