On the covered Kohler standby generator, Not in Auto means warning. The generator set is not in AUTO (standby) mode, so remote start and stop commands from a transfer switch or remote switch are ignored. First, confirm nobody left the set in OFF or RUN after service.
Try in this order
0 of 3 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleConfirm nobody left the set in OFF or RUN after service.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversiblePress AUTO to place the generator set in automatic mode when appropriate.
Put the controller in AUTO
ReversibleThe fault shows when the master control button is in RUN or OFF/RESET. Press AUTO so an ATS or remote device can start the generator.
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Exact questions
Common questions about “Kohler standby generator code Not in Auto”
What does Not in Auto mean on a Kohler standby generator?+
Warning. The generator set is not in AUTO (standby) mode, so remote start and stop commands from a transfer switch or remote switch are ignored.
Why does my Kohler generator show Not in Auto after I left it in OFF during a power cut?+
Yes. If someone switches it to OFF or RUN during an outage and forgets, it will show Not in Auto and will not start by itself next time, so check it after every outage.
Why would my Kohler generator be left in RUN or OFF?+
After a service visit or a test run it is easy to leave the controller out of AUTO. The warning is there to catch that before an outage.
How do I put a Kohler generator back in AUTO?+
Press the AUTO button on the controller so the warning clears and an outage can start the generator on its own.
How often should I check that the generator is in AUTO?+
After every service, after any test run and after a long outage, since the generator only starts by itself when the controller is in AUTO.
What do RUN and OFF/RESET do on a Kohler controller?+
RUN starts the generator and keeps it running whatever the utility is doing, which is meant for testing and manual use. OFF/RESET stops the set and clears faults. Neither lets the transfer switch start the generator by itself, which is why the controller must end up in AUTO.
Does the weekly exercise run when the controller is in OFF?+
No. The set follows its exercise schedule and the transfer switch's start signal only in AUTO, so a generator left in OFF also skips its weekly test run. A week with no exercise run is a sign it has been out of AUTO for a while.
Who puts a Kohler generator back in AUTO after service so Not in Auto does not return?+
Ask the technician to leave it in AUTO and to show you the controller before they leave. A glance at the controller after any visit, any test run and any outage is the cheapest check there is.