Grounding The Generator; Generator Ac Neutral Connections; Transfer Switch Start Signal Connections; Battery Installation - Generac Power Systems 005564-0 Owner's Manual

2.5

GROUNDING THE GENERATOR

The National Electrical Code requires the frame and external electri-
cally conductive parts of this equipment to be properly connected
to an approved earth ground and/or grounding rods. For that
purpose, a GROUND LUG (Figure 2.2) is provided on the genera-
tor mounting base. Consult a qualified electrician for grounding
requirements in the area. Grounding procedures must meet local
regulations.
Figure 2.2 – Generator Grounding Lug (typical)
 Do not connect the ground wire to any pipe
that carries a flammable or explosive sub-
stance – FIRE or an EXPLOSION may result.
Proper grounding helps protect personnel against electrical shock
in the event of a ground fault condition in the generator or in con-
nected electrical devices. In addition, grounding helps dissipate
static electricity that often builds up in ungrounded devices.
2.6 GENERATOR AC NEUTRAL
CONNECTIONS
The manufacturer uses an UNGROUNDED AC neutral. Grounding
is recommended only at the main service entrance. If the neutral
wire is grounded and one of the phase loads becomes grounded,
the excessive current opens the load circuit breaker or collapses
the generator field. The actual result depends on the electrical
characteristics of the particular installed generator.
2.7 TRANSFER SWITCH START
SIGNAL CONNECTIONS
If the generator is to be installed with an automatic transfer switch,
such as a GTS-type switch, it is necessary to connect the two-wire
start control system.
Connect the two-wire start signal from the automatic transfer
switch to the automatic start connection, which is located in the
lower center of the AC connection panel (see Figure 2.3). Match
wires 178/0 and 183 in the transfer switch to 178/0 and 183 on
the terminal strip in the connection box. The conductors for the
two-wire start circuit must be in their own conduit.
Figure 2.3 – Start Signal Connections
Automatic Start Connection (Wires 178/0 and 183)
2.8

BATTERY INSTALLATION

Standby generators installed with automatic

transfer switches will crank and start auto-
matically when NORMAL (UTILITY) source
voltage is removed or is below an accept-
able preset level. To prevent such automatic
start-up and possible injury to personnel,
do not connect battery cables until certain
that NORMAL source voltage at the transfer
switch is correct and the system is ready for
operation.
 Storage batteries give off explosive hydrogen
gas. This gas can form an explosive mixture
around the battery for several hours after
charging. The slightest spark can ignite the
gas and cause an explosion. Such an explo-
sion can shatter the battery and cause blind-
ness or other injury. Any area that houses a
storage battery must be properly ventilated.
Do not allow smoking, open flame, sparks or
any spark producing tools or equipment near
the battery.
Installation
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