Connecting the Generator to a
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
building electrical system, a transfer switch
must isolate the generator power from the util-
ity power at all times. Failure to comply will
result in a hazardous condition. Installation is
to be made in strict compliance with all
national and local electrical codes and laws,
and be completed by a qualified electrician.
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.
Know Generator Limits
Overloading a generator can result in damage
to the generator and connected electrical
devices. Observe the following to prevent
overload:
• Add the total wattage of all electrical
devices to be connected at one time. This
total should NOT be greater than the gener-
ator's wattage capacity.
• The rated wattage of lights can be taken
from light bulbs. The rated wattage of tools,
appliances, and motors can be found on a
data label or decal affixed to the device.
• If the appliance, tool, or motor does not
give wattage, multiply volts times ampere
rating to determine watts (volts x amps =
watts).
• Some electric motors, such as induction
types, require approximately three times
more watts of power for starting than for
running. This surge of power lasts only a
few seconds when starting such motors.
Make sure to allow for high starting wattage
when selecting electrical devices to con-
nect to the generator:
1. Calculate the watts needed to start the
largest motor.
2. Add to that figure the running watts of all
other connected loads.
The Wattage Reference Guide is provided to
assist in determining how many items the gen-
erator can operate at one time.
NOTE: All figures are approximate. See data
label on appliance for wattage requirements.
Owner's Manual for Portable Generator
Wattage Reference Guide
Device
*Air Conditioner (12,000 Btu)
*Air Conditioner (24,000 Btu)
*Air Conditioner (40,000 Btu)
Battery Charger (20 Amp)
Belt Sander (3")
Chain Saw
Circular Saw (7-1/4")
*Clothes Dryer (Electric)
*Clothes Dryer (Gas)
*Clothes Washer
Coffee Maker
*Compressor (1 HP)
*Compressor (3/4 HP)
*Compressor (1/2 HP)
Curling Iron
*Dehumidifier
Disc Sander (9")
Edge Trimmer
Electric Blanket
Electric Nail Gun
Electric Range (per element)
Electric Skillet
*Freezer
*Furnace Fan (3/5 HP)
*Garage Door Opener
Hair Dryer
Hand Drill
Hedge Trimmer
Impact Wrench
Iron
*Jet Pump
Lawn Mower
Light Bulb
Microwave Oven
*Milk Cooler
Oil Burner on Furnace
Oil Fired Space Heater (140,000
Btu)
Oil Fired Space Heater (85,000 Btu)
Oil Fired Space Heater (30,000 Btu)
*Paint Sprayer, Airless (1/3 HP)
Paint Sprayer, Airless (hand-held)
Running
Watts
1700
3800
6000
500
1000
1200
1250 to 1400
5750
700
1150
1750
2000
1800
1400
700
650
1200
500
400
1200
1500
1250
700
875
500 to 750
1200
250 to 1100
450
500
1200
800
1200
100
700 to 1000
1100
300
400
225
150
600
150
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