How to Troubleshoot the Idle Control of a Coleman Powermate

Check to make sure the idle control switch is set to "On" if the unit will not idle. This switch is located on the control panel area of the generator. Idle control is an optional feature that must be manually activated before it can automatically control the load of the Powermate generator.

Unplug the electrical device or appliance that is plugged into the generator. The Powermate generator could be sensing the load from the appliance that is plugged into the receptacle.

Examine the power cords that are connected and extending from the electrical devices and appliances. Make sure the cords are securely and completely plugged into the outlets on the generator. Carefully check for damaged or frayed cords on appliances that are causing a poor power connection. Avoid using appliances that have faulty power cords until those parts are repaired.

Flip the idle control switch to "Off" if the Powermate generator is idling, even when the load is plugged in. The problem may be that the load is not heavy enough to adequately take advantage of the idle control feature. Alternatively, try to increase the load to where idle control can function within specified ranges built into the generator.