MULTIQUIP WHISPERWATT Series Operation Manual page 15

OUTDOOR INSTALLATION
Install the generator in an area that is free of debris,
bystanders, and overhead obstructions. Make sure the
generator is on secure, level ground so that it cannot slide
or shift around. Also, install the generator in a manner so
that the exhaust will not be discharged in the direction of
nearby homes.
The installation site must be relatively free from moisture
and dust. All electrical equipment should be protected
from excessive moisture. Failure to do so will result in
deterioration of the insulation, short circuits, and grounding.
Foreign materials such as dust, sand, lint and abrasive
materials have a tendency to cause excessive wear to
engine and alternator parts.
CAUTION
Pay close attention to ventilation when operating the
generator inside tunnels and caves. The engine exhaust
contains noxious elements. Engine exhaust must be
routed to a ventilated area.
INDOOR INSTALLATION
Exhaust gases from diesel engines are extremely
poisonous. Whenever an engine is installed indoors the
exhaust fumes must be vented to the outside. The engine
should be installed at least two feet from any outside wall.
Using an exhaust pipe which is too long or too small can
cause excessive back pressure which will cause the engine
to heat excessively and possibly burn the valves.
MOUNTING
The generator must be mounted on a solid foundation
(such as concrete) and set firmly on the foundation to
isolate vibration of the generator when it is running. The
generator must be mounted at least 6 inches above the floor
or grade level as referenced in the National Fire Protection
Association handbook (NFPA 110, Chapter 7, section 7.4).
DO NOT remove the metal skids on the bottom of the
generator. They are to resist damage to the bottom of the
generator and to maintain alignment.
DCA400SSI4F/DCA400SSI4F3 60 HZ GENERATOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #3 (04/18/22) — PAGE 15
GENERATOR GROUNDING
NOTICE
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) and the National Electrical Code (NEC)
recommend that if the generator is providing electrical
power to a structure (home, office, shop, trailer, or
similar) it must be connected to a grounding electrode
system, such as a driven ground rod (Figure 3).
If applicable, to guard against electrical shock and possible
damage to the equipment, it is important to provide a good
EARTH ground (Figure 3).
NOTICE
ALWAYS check with State, Province, District and
Municipalities for electrical grounding requirements
before using the generator.
Article 250 (Grounding) of the NEC handbook provides
guidelines for proper grounding and specifies that the cable
ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the
building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.
1. Use one of the following wire types to connect the
generator to earth ground.
a. Copper
b. Aluminum
NOTICE
Reference Conductor Grounding Table, Article 250
of the NEC handbook for proper conductor wire size.
Wire size is determined by the maximum amperage of
the generator.
2. When grounding of the generator (Figure 3) is required,
connect one end the ground cable to the ground lug
on the generator. Connect the other end of the ground
cable to the ground rod (earth ground).
3. NEC Article 250 specifies that the earth ground rod
should be buried a minimum of 8 feet into the ground.
NOTICE
When connecting the generator to any building's
electrical system, ALWAYS consult with a licensed
electrician.
INSTALLATION