Jim Elbrecht wrote:

Most folks I know who have emergency generators run them once a month
or so.

I just got one [lost power for a week last week] and note that the
manual says once a *week*. [Briggs and Stratton 5500 watt Storm
Responder]

That seems like a CYA suggestion. I run Stabil in my gas and will
probably go for once a month under load. What is a good load? An
electric space heater that draws a constant 1500watts or so? Power
tools that draw a surge?

I'm also going to build a little shed/doghouse for this thing. Has
anyone seem some good ideas for a 4x5 structure that blends into the
landscape? [I've been thinking of a scaled down chalet- a gingerbread
house- or a fake boulder as possibilities.]

Thanks
Jim

I have a Generac L5000E that I've had for an eon or two. I used to
exercise it regularly, but these days it just gets exercised when I need
it, typically quarterly or so. I use Sta-Bil in all my fuel stocks, I
use Mobil 1 oil in all my engines and I never have a problem.

As for a shed, any old pre-fab garden shed would do the job to shelter
it. Realize that no small shed will do much to quiet it. The only way
you can accomplish that to any extent would be with solid masonry,
plywood or similar just makes a sounding board.