Section 3 Operation
Operation and Use Questions
Call Generac customer service at 1-888-GEN-
ERAC (1-888-436-3722) with questions or
concerns about equipment operation and
maintenance.
Before Starting Engine
1. Verify engine oil level is correct.
2. Verify fuel level is correct.
3. Verify unit is secure on level ground, with
proper clearance and is in a well ventilated
area.
Prepare Generator for Use
Asphyxiation. Running engines produce carbon
monoxide, a colorless, odorless, poisonous
gas. Carbon monoxide, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
Asphyxiation. The exhaust system must be properly
maintained. Do not alter or modify the exhaust system
as to render it unsafe or make it noncompliant with
local codes and/or standards. Failure to do so will
result in death or serious injury.
Asphyxiation. Always use a battery operated carbon
monoxide alarm indoors and installed according to
the manufacturer's instructions. Failure to do so
could result in death or serious injury.
Risk of fire. Do not use generator without
spark arrestor installed. Failure to do so
could result in death or serious injury.
Risk of Fire. Hot surfaces could ignite
combustibles, resulting in fire. Fire could
result in death or serious injury.
Hot Surfaces. When operating machine, do not
touch hot surfaces. Keep machine away from
combustibles during use. Hot surfaces could
result in severe burns or fire.
Equipment and property damage. Disconnect
electrical loads prior to starting or stopping unit.
Failure to do so could result in equipment and
property damage.
14
DANGER
DANGER
WARNING
(000178a)
WARNING
(000118a)
WARNING
WARNING
CAUTION
Grounding the Generator When
Used as a Portable
The generator is equipped with a terminal for
the connection of a grounding electrode sys-
tem. Article 250.34 (A) does not require the
frame of the generator to be connected to a
grounding electrode system when the genera-
tor only supplies power to cord and plug con-
nected equipment through the receptacles on
the generator.
See
Figure
power to a 3-pole manual transfer switch or
distribution panel boards for temporary power,
a grounding electrode system shall be
installed and connected to the grounding elec-
trode terminal on the generator. See NEC
250.30, 250.34 and 250.52 for clarification.
• NEUTRAL BONDED TO FRAME
• THERE IS A PERMANENT CONDUCTOR
BETWEEN THE GENERATOR (STATOR
WINDING) AND FRAME
(000103)
(000179b)
Figure 3-1.Grounding the Generator
Special Requirements
Review all Federal or State Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reg-
ulations, local codes, or ordinances that apply
to the intended use of the generator.
Consult a qualified electrician, electrical
inspector, or the local agency having jurisdic-
tion:
• In some areas, generators are required to
(000110)
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 the Generator to a
(000108)
Building Electrical System
It is recommended to use a manual transfer
switch when connecting directly to a building
electrical system to prevent hazardous back-
feeding and avoid injuring utility line workers.
When connecting a portable generator to a
(000136)
building electrical system, a transfer switch
must isolate the generator power from the util-
3-1. When the generator supplies
Owner's Manual for Portable Generator
000928
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