The Battery; Battery Charger - Generac Power Systems 8 kW Owner's Manual

Figure 1.11 – Battery Cable Connections
In areas where temperatures regularly fall below 32° F (0° C) it
is recommended that a pad type battery heater be installed to
aid in cold climate starting.

1.14 THE BATTERY



Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
battery is capable of exploding.
 A battery presents a risk of electrical shock
and high short circuit current. The following
precautions are to be observed when work-
ing on batteries:
• Remove the 7.5A fuse from the generator con-
trol panel.
• Remove watches, rings or other metal objects.
• Use tools with insulated handles.
• Wear rubber gloves and boots;
• Do not lay tools or metal parts on top of the
battery.
• Disconnect charging source prior to connecting
or disconnecting battery terminals.
Do not open or mutilate the battery.
Released electrolyte has been known to
be harmful to the skin and eyes, and to be
toxic.
The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that
is harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electri-
cally conductive and corrosive.
The following procedures are to be observed:
• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing.
• Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off
immediately with water.
• Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thor-
oughly and immediately with water and seek
medical attention.
NOTE:
• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with
an acid neutralizing agent. A common practice
is to use a solution of 1 pound (500 grams)
bicarbonate of soda to 1 gallon (4 liters) of
water. The bicarbonate of soda solution is to
be added until the evidence of reaction (foam-
ing) has ceased. The resulting liquid is to be
flushed with water and the area dried.

Lead-acid batteries present a risk of fire
because they generate hydrogen gas. The fol-
lowing procedures are to be followed:
• DO NOT SMOKE when near the battery.
• DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area.
• Discharge static electricity from body before
touching the battery by first touching a ground-
ed metal surface.
Be sure the AUTO/OFF/MANUAL switch is
set to the OFF position before connecting
the battery cables. If the switch is set to
AUTO or MANUAL, the generator can crank
and start as soon as the battery cables are
connected.


Be sure the utility power supply is turned off
and the 7.5A fuse is removed from the gener-
ator control panel, or sparking may occur at
the battery posts as the cables are attached
and cause an explosion.
Servicing of the battery is to be performed or supervised by per-
sonnel knowledgeable of batteries and the required precautions.
Keep unauthorized personnel away from batteries.
See the Specifications section for the correct size and rating when
replacing the battery. Have these procedures performed at the
intervals specified in the "Service Schedule." A negative ground
system is used. Battery connections are shown on the wiring dia-
grams. Make sure the battery is correctly connected and terminals
are tight. Observe battery polarity when connecting the battery to
the generator set.

1.15 BATTERY CHARGER

The battery charger is integrated into the control module in all
models.
It operates as a "Smart Charger" which ensures output is continu-
ally optimized to promote maximum battery life and charging levels
are at safe conditions.
There is a warning on the LCD display when the battery needs
service.
General Information
NOTE:
NOTE:
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