Operation; Before Starting The Generator - Westinghouse WGen12000 User Manual

OPERATION

BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR

BEFORE STARTING THE GENERATOR,
REVIEW SAFETY SECTION STARTING
ON PAGE 5.
Location Selection – Before starting the generator,
avoid exhaust and location hazards by verifying:
• You have selected a location to operate the generator
that is outdoors and well ventilated.
• You have selected a location with a level and solid
surface on which to place the generator.
• You have selected a location that is at least 15 feet
(4.5 m) away from any building, other equipment or
combustible material.
• If the generator is located close to a building, make
sure it is not located near any windows, doors and/or
vents.
WARNING
Always operate the generator on a
level surface. Placing the generator
on non level surfaces can cause the
generator to tip over, causing fuel
and oil to spill. Spilled fuel can ignite
if it comes in contact with an ignition
source such as a very hot surface.
NOTICE
Only operate the generator on a solid, level surface.
Operating the generator on a surface with loose
material such as sand or grass clippings can cause
debris to be ingested by the generator that could:
• Block cooling vents
• Block air intake system
12 | Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment
Weather – Never operate your generator outdoors during
rain, snow or any combination of weather conditions that
could lead to moisture collecting on, in or around the
generator.
Dry Surface – Always operate the generator on a dry
surface free of any moisture.
No Connected Loads – Make sure the generator has no
connected loads before starting it. To ensure there are no
connected loads, unplug any electrical extension cords that
are plugged into the control panel receptacles.
NOTICE
Starting the generator with loads already applied
to it could result in damage to any appliance being
powered off the generator during the brief start-up
period.
Grounding the Generator – The National Electric Code
(NEC), as well as many local electrical codes, may require
the generator to be connected to earth ground before
operating. The most common application that requires
a ground rod is when you are using the generator as a
separately derived system to provide back up power to
your house. Typically this is when a transfer switch has a
switched neutral.
As the generator application has many variables that
cannot be determined by the manufacturer of the
generator, a licensed electrician will need to determine if a
grounding rod is needed.
If a licensed electrician has determine the application
requires a ground rod, make sure it is connected to earth
ground by connecting the ground terminal on the control
panel to earth ground using copper wire (minimum 10
AWG). Consult a qualified electrician for local grounding
requirements.
Neutral Bonded: There is a permanent conduct or between
the generator (stator winding) and the frame.
WARNING
Be sure the generator is properly
connected to earth ground before
operating. The generator must be
grounded to prevent electrical shock
due to faulty appliances.