System Ground; Grounding The Generator; Don't Overload The Generator - Generac Power Systems GP Series Owner's Manual

Operation

2.4.1 SYSTEM GROUND

The generator has a system ground that connects the generator
frame components to the ground terminals on the AC output
receptacles. The system ground is bonded to the AC neutral wire
in the generator control panel via a jumper wire.
Special Requirements
There may be Federal or State Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) regulations, local codes, or ordinances that
apply to the intended use of the generator.
Please consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or the
local agency having jurisdiction:
• In some areas, generators are required to be registered with
local utility companies.
• If the generator is used at a construction site, there may be
additional regulations which must be observed.
Connecting to a Building's Electrical System
Connections for standby power to a building's electrical system
must be made by a qualified electrician. The connection must
isolate the generator power from utility power or other alternative
power sources and must comply with all applicable laws and
electrical codes.

2.4.2 GROUNDING THE GENERATOR

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 10). For that purpose, connecting a No. 10 AWG
(American Wire Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding lug
and to an earth-driven copper or brass grounding rod (electrode)
provides adequate protection against electrical shock. However,
local codes may vary widely. Consult with a local electrician for
grounding requirements in the area.
Proper grounding of the generator will help prevent electrical
shock in the event of a ground fault condition in the generator or in
connected electrical devices. Proper grounding also helps dissipate
static electricity, which often builds up in ungrounded devices.
8
Figure 10 - Grounding the Generator

2.5 DON'T OVERLOAD THE GENERATOR

Overloading a generator in excess of its rated wattage capacity
can result in damage to the generator and to connected electrical
devices. Observe the following to prevent overloading the unit:
• Add up the total wattage of all electrical devices to be connected
at one time. This total should NOT be greater than the
generator's wattage capacity.
• The rated wattage 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 affixed to the device.
• If the appliance, tool or motor does not give wattage, multiply
volts times ampere rating to determine watts (volts x amps =
watts).
• Some electric motors, such as induction types, require about
three times more watts of power for starting than for running.
This surge of power lasts only a few seconds when starting
such motors. Make sure to allow for high starting wattage when
selecting electrical devices to connect to the generator:
1. Figure the watts needed to start the largest motor.
2. Add to that figure the running watts of all other connected
loads.
The Wattage Reference Guide is provided to assist in determining
how many items the generator can operate at one time.
All figures are approximate. See data label on appliance for
wattage requirements.
NOTE: