Vented Batteries; Preparation Before Start-Up; Prior To Initial Start-Up - Generac Power Systems 13694330200 Owner's Manual

A
Battery electrolyte fluid is an extremely
....caustic sulfuric acid solution that can cause
severe burns. Do not permit fluid to contact
eyes, skin, clothing, painted surfaces, etc.
Wear protective goggles, protective clothing
and gloves when handling a battery. If fluid
is spilled, flush the affected area immedi-
ately with clear water.
IAWARNINGII
A
Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
~battery
is capable of exploding.
A
Do not open or mutilate the battery.
.... Released electrolyte can be toxic and harm-
ful to the skin and eyes.
Ir\
The battery represents a risk of high short
illcircuit current. When working on the battery,
always remove watches, rings or other metal
objects, and only use tools that have insu-
lated handles.
VENTED BATTERIES
ACAUTIONI
A
The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is
.... harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically
conductive and corrosive. The following pro-
cedures are to be observed:
o
Wear full eye protection and protective cloth-
ing,
o
Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off
immediately with water,
o
Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thor-
oughly and immediately with water and seek
medical attention, and
o
Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with
an acid-neutralizing agent. A common practice
is to use a solution of one pound (500 grams)
bicarbonate of soda to one gallon (4 liters) of
water. The bicarbonate of soda solution is to be
added until the evidence of reaction (foaming)
has ceased. The resulting liquid is to be flushed
with water and the area dried.
A
Lead acid batteries present a risk of fire
~because
they generate hydrogen gas. The
following procedure are to be followed:
o
DO NOT SMOKE when near batteries,
o
DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area,
and
o
Discharge static electricity from body before
touching batteries by first touching a grounded
metal surface.
Operation
Servicing of batteries is to be performed or supervised by person-
nel knowledgeable of batteries and the required precautions, Keep
unauthorized personnel away from batteries.
For recommended batteries, see "Specifications," All batteries
must be at 100 percent state-of-charge before they are installed
on the generator.
When using maintenance-free batteries, it is not necessary
to check the specific gravity or electrolyte level. Have these
procedures performed at the intervals specified in Section 4,
"Maintenance," A negative ground system is used. Battery con-
nections are shown on the wiring diagrams, Make sure all batteries
are correctly connected and terminals are tight. Observe battery
polarity when connecting batteries to the generator set.
NOTE:
Damage will result if the battery connections are made in
reverse.
PREPARATION BEFORE START-UP
The instructions in this section assume that the stationary emer-
gency generator has been properly installed, serviced, tested,
adjusted and otherwise prepared for use by acompetent, qualified
installation contractor. Be sure to read the" Safety Rules" on Pages
2 and 3, as well as all other safety information in this manual,
before attempting to operate this (and related) equipment.
PRIOR TO INITIAL START-UP
ACAUTIONI
A
Prior to initially starting the generator, it
.... must be properly prepared for use. Any
attempt to crank or start the engine before
it has been properly serviced with the rec-
ommended types and quantities of engine
fluids (oil, coolant, fuel, etc.) may result in an
engine failure.
Before starting the generator for the first time, the installer must
complete the following procedures. For follow-up maintenance
information and/or service intervals, please refer to Section 4,
"Maintenance," and the "Service Schedule",
Transfer Switch
If this generator is used to supply power to any electrical system
normally powered by an electric utility, the National Electrical Code
requires that atransfer switch be installed, The transfer switch pre-
vents electrical backfeed between two different electrical systems.
(For additional information, see the applicable transfer switch
manual for this unit.) The transfer switch, as well as the genera-
tor and other standby components, must be properly located and
mounted in strict compliance with applicable codes, standards and
regulations,
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