Portable; Electricalsystem; Don't Overloadthe Generator - Generac Portable Products GP Series Owner's Manual

Using a generator indoors CAN KiLL YOU iN MINUTES.
Grounding theGenerator in a Building S tandby A pplicati0n
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide. This is
a poison you cannot see or smell.
NEVER use inside a home
or garage, EVEN iF doors
and windows are open.
Only use OUTSIDE and
far away from windows,
doors, and vents.
2.4.1 GROUNO/NG THEGENERATOR WHEN USED ASA
PORTABLE
This generator has an equipment ground that connects the
generatorframe components to the ground terminals on the AC
output receptacles (see NEC 250.34 (A) for explanation). This
allows the generatorto be used as a portable without grounding
the frame of the generatoras specified in NEC250.34.
SpecialRequirements
There may be Federalor State Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA)regulations,local codes, or ordinancesthat
apply to the intendeduse of the generator.
Please consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or the
local agency havingjurisdiction:
* In some areas, generators are required to be registered with
local utility companies.
* If the generator is used at a construction site, there may be
additionalregulationswhich must be observed.
2.4.2 CONNECT/NG THEGENERATOR TO A BU/LD/NG'$
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Connections for standby power to a building's electrical system
must be made by a qualified electrician and in strict compliance
with all national and local electrical codes and laws. The
connection must isolate the generatorpower from utility power or
other alternativepower sources.
NOTE:
Becausethe generator equipmentground is bondedto the AC
neutralwires in the generator, either a 3-poletransferswitchor
a 2 poletransferswitchwith a switchingneutral kit is required
to connectthis generator to a buildingload. In this application
the generator becomesa separatelyderived system (see NEC
250.20 (D)), and must be grounded in accordance with the
nationalor local electrical code requirements.
,_The National Electrical Code requires that the
frame and external electrically conductive parts
of this generator be properly connected to an
approved earth ground,
Local electrical codes may also require proper grounding of
the unit (Figure 8). Forthat purpose, connecting a No. 10 AWG
(American Wire Gauge)strandedcopper wire to the grounding lug
and to an earth-driven copper or brass grounding rod (electrode)
provides adequate protection against electrical shock. However,
local codes may vary widely. Consultwith a local electricianfor
grounding requirements in the area.
Proper groundingof the generatorwill help preventelectrical
shockin the event of a groundfault condition in the generatoror in
connectedelectricaldevices. Propergroundingalso helps dissipate
static electricity,which often builds up in ungroundeddevices.
Figure8 - Grounding the Generater
GROUNDING
2.5 DON'T OVERLOAD THEGENERATOR
Overloadinga generator in excess of its rated wattage capacity
can result in damageto the generatorand to connectedelectrical
devices. Observethe following to preventoverloadingthe unit:
* Add up the total wattageof all electricaldevicesto be connected
at one time. This total should NOT be greater than the
generator'swattage capacity.
* The ratedwattage of lights can be taken from light bulbs. The
rated wattage of tools, appliances and motors can usually be
found on a data label or decal affixedto the device.
* If the appliance,tool or motor does not give wattage, multiply
volts times ampererating to determinewatts (volts x amps =
watts).