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

Grounding theGenerator ina Building S tandby A pplication
,_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). For that purpose, connecting a No. 10 AWG
(American Wire Gauge)strandedcopper wire to the groundinglug
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 electrician for
groundingrequirements in the area.
Proper groundingof the generatorwill help preventelectrical
shockin the event of a groundfault condition in the generatoror in
connectedelectricaldevices. Propergrounding alsohelps dissipate
static electricity,which often builds up in ungroundeddevices.
Figure8 - Grounding the Generator
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,toot or motor does not give wattage, multiply
volts times ampere ratingto determinewatts (volts x amps =
watts).
* Some electric motors, such as induction types, require about
threetimes more watts of power for starting than for running.
This surge of power lasts only a few seconds when starting
such motors. Make sureto allowfor high startingwattagewhen
selectingelectrical devicesto connect to the generator:
1. Figurethe watts neededto start the largest motor.
2. Add to that figure the running watts of all other connected
loads.
The WattageReferenceGuide is providedto assist in determining
how many items the generatorcan operateat one time.
NOTE:
All figures are approximate. See data label on appliancefor
wattage requirements.
2.6 WATTAGE R EFERENCEGUIDE
Device ................................... Running Watts
*Air Conditioner (12,000 Btu).......................... 1700
*Air Conditioner (24,000 Btu).......................... 3800
*Air Conditioner (40,000 Btu).......................... 6000
Battery Charger(20 Amp) .............................. 500
Belt Sander (3") .................................... 1000
Chain Saw ........................................ 1200
Circular Saw (6-1/2") ........................... 800 to 1000
*Clothes Dryer (Electric) ............................. 5750
*Clothes Dryer (Gas) ................................. 700
*Clothes Washer ................................... 1150
CoffeeMaker ...................................... 1750
*Compressor (1 HP)................................. 2000
*Compressor (3/4 HP) ............................... 1800
*Compressor (1/2 HP) ............................... 1400
CurlingIron......................................... 700
*Dehumidifier ....................................... 650
Disc Sander (9").................................... 1200
EdgeTrimmer....................................... 500
Electric Blanket...................................... 400
Electric Nail Gun.................................... 1200
Electric Range(per element)........................... 1500
Electric Skillet...................................... 1250
*Freezer ............................................ 700
*Furnace Fan (3/5 HP) ................................ 875
*Garage Door Opener............................ 500 to 750
Hair Dryer......................................... 1200
Hand Drill .................................... 250 to 1100
HedgeTrimmer...................................... 450
Impact Wrench...................................... 500
Iron.............................................. 1200
*Jet Pump ......................................... 800
Lawn Mower....................................... 1200
Light Bulb .......................................... 100
Microwave Oven............................... 700 to 1000
*Milk Cooler....................................... 1100
Oil Burner on Furnace................................. 300
Oil FiredSpace Heater (140,000 Btu) ..................... 400
Oil FiredSpace Heater (85,000 Btu) ...................... 225
Oil FiredSpace Heater (30,000 Btu) ...................... 150
*Paint Sprayer,Airless (1/3 HP) ......................... 600