General Information; Generator Installation; Before Installation - Generac Power Systems Stationary Emergency Generator Installation Manual

General Information

1.1

GENERATOR INSTALLATION

This equipment is a liquid-cooled, engine-driven generator set. The
generator is designed to supply electrical power that operates criti-
cal electrical loads during utility power failure. The unit has been
factory-installed in a weather resistant, all metal enclosure and is
intended for outdoor installation only.
If this generator is used to power electrical

load circuits normally powered by a utility
power source, it is required by code to install
a transfer switch. The transfer switch must
effectively isolate the electric system from the
utility distribution system when the generator is
operating (NEC 701). Failure to isolate an elec-
trical system by such means results in damage
to the generator and may also result in injury
or even death to utility power workers due to
backfeed of electrical energy.
1.2

BEFORE INSTALLATION

Contact the local inspector or City Hall to make sure you are
aware of all federal, state and local codes that could impact
the installation. Secure all required permits before starting the
job.
Before installing this equipment, check the ratings of both the gen-
erator and the transfer switch. Read "Emergency Isolation Method"
and "Total Circuit Isolation Method".
The generator's rated wattage/amperage capacity must be ade-
quate to handle all electrical loads that the unit will power. The
critical (essential) loads may need to be grouped together and
wired into a separate "emergency" distribution panel.
Connecting this generator to an electrical sys-

tem normally supplied by an electric utility shall
be by means of a transfer switch, so as to iso-
late the electric system from the utility distribu-
tion system when the generator is operating.
Failure to isolate the electric system by these
means will result in damage to the generator
and may also result in injury or death to utility
workers due to backfeed of electrical energy.
If an open bottom is used, the engine-generator

is to be installed over non-combustible materi-
als and should be located such that combus-
tible materials are not capable of accumulating
under the generator set.
Only authorized dealers or qualified, competent installation con-
tractors or electricians thoroughly familiar with applicable codes,
standards and regulations should install this standby electric
power system. The installation must comply strictly with all codes,
standards and regulations pertaining to the installation.
4
NOTE:
After the system has been installed, do nothing

that might render the installation in noncompli-
ance with such codes, standards and regula-
tions.
1.2.1 NFPA STANDARDS
Applicable national, state, or local laws, codes, and regulations
pertaining to the installation of engine-generator power systems
must be strictly complied with. Always use the current accept-
able version or edition of the applicable code or standard which
applies to your jurisdiction. In the absence of pertinent local laws
and standards, the following published booklets may be used as
a guide (these apply to localities which recognize NFPA and IBC):
1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70: The NATIONAL
ELECTRIC CODE (NEC) *
2. NFPA 10: Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers *
3. NFPA 30: Flammable And Combustible Liquids Code *
4. NFPA 37: Standard for Stationary Combustion Engines And
Gas Turbines *
5. NFPA 54: National Fuel Gas Code *
6. NFPA 58: Standard for Storage And Handling Of Liquefied
Petroleum Gases *
7. NFPA 68: Standard On Explosion Protection By Deflagration
Venting *
8. NFPA 70E: Standard For Electrical Safety In The Workplace *
9. NFPA 99: Health Care Facilities Code *
10. NFPA 101: Life Safety Code *
11. NFPA 110: Standard for Emergency and Standby Power
Systems *
12. NFPA 211: Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and
Solid Fuel Burning Appliances *
13. NFPA 220: Standard on Types of Building Construction *
14. NFPA 5000: Building Code *
15. International Building Code **
16. Agricultural Wiring Handbook ***
17. ASAE EP-364.2 Installation and Maintenance of Farm Standby
Electric Power ****
This list is not all inclusive. Check with the Authority Having Local
Jurisdiction (AHJ) for any local codes or standards which may
be applicable to your jurisdiction. The above listed standards are
available from the following internet sources:
* www.nfpa.org
** www.iccsafe.org
*** www.rerc.org Rural Electricity Resource Council P .O. Box 309
Wilmington, OH 45177-0309
**** www.asabe.org American Society of Agricultural & Biological
Engineers 2950 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 9085
Changes to previous standards:
The National Building Code was superseded by the International
Building Code and/or NFPA 5000 Building Code. The local AHJ will
determine which if either applies.