Battery Information - Generac GP1800 Manual De Propietario

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do the Red and Blue colored dots on the extension
cord receptacles mean?
A: These indicate the need to balance the loads on the generator
when adding electrical devices. For example, if you are adding
two electrical devices, plug one into a red outlet and the other
into a blue outlet rather than two red or two blue outlets. This will
help balance the loads on the generator.
This only applies to models with extension cords.
Q: Can I operate my generator in the rain?
A: Portable generators should never be operated inside an enclosed
space or contrary to any provision or warning contained in your
Owner's Manual. However, portable generators are intended to
be used during extreme weather and for the sensitive electronics
on them, it is best if some sort of open covering can be used
to protect it from direct rain or snow. Great options would be
a car port or boat canopy with four open sides or a tarp hung
from a tree. It is very important to provide adequate ventilation
for the generator, so any sort of protection should be at least
five feet from any side (including the top of the unit) while in
use. Additionally, a portable generator should always be stored
inside when not in use to prevent unnecessary wear and tear. BE
ADVISED, the generator should NEVER be used in any enclosed
space including, without limitation, a shed, home, garage, trailer
or vehicle, even if the doors are left open, as this can be a serious
fire hazard and carbon monoxide risk.
Q: How long can I operate the generator? Does it need a
"break"?
A: Your generator can be operated continually. The highest priority is
to maintain a proper oil level. Each time you add fuel, check the oil
level as well. Add oil, if necessary, to keep the level at the upper
mark on the dipstick. See the Checking Oil Level and Adding
Fuel sections of your owner's manual for complete instructions
on adding fuel and oil.
Q: Is there anything special I need to do before I turn off my
generator? Should I unplug my electrical devices?
A: Yes, remove all loads before turning the generator off. First,
turn off all appliances, lights and items being powered by
the generator. Then, unplug the items from the generator's
receptacles and allow the generator to cool. Once you've done
this, it is safe to turn the generator off. NEVER turn the generator
off while loads are applied. Refer to the Generator Loads section
of your owner's manual for complete instructions on adding and
removing electrical devices.
Q: If the generator is being used, how do I connect or
disconnect electrical devices?
A: NEVER start or stop the generator's engine with running
electrical devices plugged into the generator. When the generator
is turned off, you can only connect electrical devices that are
turned off. When the generator is turned on, you may connect
electrical devices that are turned on or off.
2
NOTE:
Q: Why do I need to ground my portable generator?
A: Proper grounding of the generator, when used to back-up
a buildings utility power, will prevent electrical shock in the
event of a ground fault condition in the generator or connected
electrical devices. Proper grounding also helps dissipate static
electricity which often builds up in ungrounded devices. The
National Electric Code requires that the frame and externally
conductive parts of this generator be properly connected to an
approved earth ground. Local electrical codes may also require
proper grounding of the unit. For that purpose, connecting a No.
10 AWG (American Wire Gauge) stranded copper wire to the
grounding lug and to an earth driven copper or brass grounding
rod (electrode) provides adequate protection against electrical
shock. However, local codes may vary widely. Consult with a local
electrician for grounding requirements in the area.
Q: How often should I start / operate my generator between
outages?
A: Generac recommends starting a generator once a month and
running the unit for about 30 minutes. Starting the unit monthly
will help make sure that the generator is ready to turn on in the
event of an outage.

BATTERY INFORMATION

Q: How often do I have to charge the generator's battery?
A: If the starter will not turn the engine over, charge the battery using
the charger provided with your generator. The charger should be
connected for no longer than 48 hours.
Q: My generator's battery will no longer accept a charge. What
is the procedure for replacing a battery?
A: Complete battery replacement procedures can be found in the
Battery Replacement section of your owner's manual.
Q: How do I charge my portable generator's battery?
A: Most portable generators do not charge their batteries when
running. Two Generac GP models, the 15,000 and 17,500 and
all electric start XP models charge their batteries while operating.
Generac electric start generators, except those two GP models
come with an external charger. The customer should charge the
battery at least once a month for 24-48 hours in preparation
for usage. If the battery is dead, most of the portables have a
recoil backup (pull start). In emergency situations, the customer
can charge the battery by plugging the charger cord into the
receptacle on the generator while it is running. This is not
recommended for typical operation.