Section 3 Operation
Operation and Use Questions
Call Powermate Customer Service at 1-800-
445-1805 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.
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.
Risk of fire. Do not use generator without
spark arrestor installed. Failure to do so
could 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. 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.
10
DANGER
(000103)
DANGER
(000179a)
WARNING
(000118a)
WARNING
(000178a)
WARNING
(000110)
WARNING
(000108)
CAUTION
Grounding the Generator When
In Use
The generator is equipped with a terminal for
the connection of a grounding electrode sys-
tem. NEC Article 250.34 (A) does not require
the frame of the generator to be connected to
a grounding electrode system when the gen-
erator only supplies power to cord and plug
connected 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
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
which must be observed.
Connecting the Generator to a
Building Electrical System
When connecting directly to a building electri-
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
(000136)
and in strict compliance with all national and
local electrical codes and laws.
Figure 3-1.Grounding the Generator
Owner's Manual for Portable Generator
Figure
3-1.
001603