1.12 Generator Activation - Generac Power Systems Stationary Emergency Generator Installation Manual

General Information
The battery represents a risk of high short

circuit current. When working on the battery,
always remove watches, rings or other metal
objects, and only use tools that have insulated
handles.
1.11.1 VENTED BATTERIES
The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is

harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically
conductive and corrosive. The following proce-
dures are to be observed:
• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing,
• Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off immediately
with water,
• Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thoroughly and
immediately with water and seek medical attention, and
• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with an acid-
neutralizing agent. A common practice is to use a solution
of one pound (500 grams) bicarbonate of soda to one gallon
(4 liters) of water. The bicarbonate of soda solution is to be
added until the evidence of reaction (foaming) has ceased.
The resulting liquid is to be flushed with water and the area
dried.
Lead acid batteries present a risk of fire

because they generate hydrogen gas. The fol-
lowing procedure are to be followed:
• DO NOT SMOKE when near batteries,
• DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area, and
• Discharge static electricity from body before touching batter-
ies by first touching a grounded metal surface.
Servicing of batteries is to be performed or supervised by person-
nel knowledgeable of batteries and the required precautions. Keep
unauthorized personnel away from batteries.
For recommended batteries, see the "Specifications" section in
the Owner's Manual. All batteries must be at 100 percent state-of-
charge before they are installed on the generator.
When using maintenance-free batteries, it is not necessary to
check the specific gravity or electrolyte level. Have these proce-
dures performed at the intervals specified in the "Maintenance"
section in the Owner's Manual. A negative ground system is used.
Battery connections are shown on the wiring diagrams. Make
sure all batteries are correctly connected and terminals are tight.
Observe battery polarity when connecting batteries to the genera-
tor set.
Damage will result if the battery connections are made in
reverse.
Before connecting the battery, make certain that normal utility volt-
age at the transfer switch is correct and the system is ready to be
put into operation.
Check the engine oil, the coolant level, belt tension, and if so
equipped, the gearbox oil (Figure 1.14).
14
NOTE:
Figure 1.14 — Check Engine Oil
Check the battery to make sure it is fully charged before install-
ing.
Follow all safety procedures detailed in the Owner's Manual and
observe polarity when connecting the battery. Make sure all termi-
nal connections are tight (Figure 1.15).
Figure 1.15 — Check Terminal Connections

1.12 GENERATOR ACTIVATION

When battery power is applied to the generator during the installa-
tion process, the controller will light up. However, the generator still
needs to be activated before it will automatically run in the event
of a power outage.
Activating the generator is a simple one time process that is guided
by the controller screen prompts. Once the product is activated,
the controller screen will not prompt you again, even if you discon-
nect the generator battery.
After obtaining your activation code, please complete the follow-
ing steps at the generator's control panel in the Activation Chart
(shown on the following page).