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.
12
DANGER
DANGER
(000179b)
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.
When the generator supplies power to a 3-
pole manual transfer switch or distribution
panel boards for temporary power, a ground-
ing electrode system shall be installed and
connected to the grounding electrode terminal
on the generator. See NEC 250.30, 250.34
and 250.52 for clarification. See
• Neutral Bonded to Frame
(000103)
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
be registered with local utility companies.
• If the generator is used at a construction
site, there may be additional regulations
(000110)
which must be observed.
Connecting the Generator to a
Building Electrical System
When connecting directly to a building electri-
(000108)
cal system, it is recommended that a manual
transfer switch be used. Connections for a
portable generator to a building electrical sys-
tem must be made by a qualified electrician
and in strict compliance with all national and
local electrical codes and laws.
(000136)
Figure 3-1.Grounding the Generator
Owner's Manual for Portable Generator
Figure
3-1.
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