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10 Generac
®
Power Systems, Inc.
GENERATOR AC NEUTRAL CONNECTIONS
Generac uses an UNGROUNDED AC neutral.
Grounding is recommended only at the main service
entrance. If the neutral wire is grounded and one of the
phase loads becomes grounded, the excessive current
opens the load circuit breaker or collapses the genera-
tor field. The actual result depends on the electrical
characteristics of the particular installed generator.
TRANSFER SWITCH START SIGNAL
CONNECTIONS
If your generator is to be installed with an automatic
transfer switch, such as a Generac GTS-type switch, it
will be necessary to connect the two-wire start
control system.
Connect the two-wire start signal from the automatic
transfer switch to the automatic start connection, which
is located in the right hand corner inside the control
panel. Match wires 178 and 183 in the transfer switch
to 178 and 183 on the terminal strip in the control
panel. The conductors for the two-wire start circuit
must be in their own conduit.
BATTERY INSTALLATION
Standby generators installed with automatic
transfer switches will crank and start automatical-
ly when normal (utility) source voltage is removed
or is below an acceptable preset level. To prevent
such automatic start-up and possible injury to per-
sonnel, do not connect battery cables until you
are certain that normal source voltage at the
transfer switch is correct and you are ready to
place the system into operation.
Storage batteries give off explosive hydrogen gas.
This gas can form an explosive mixture around
the battery for several hours after charging. The
slightest spark can ignite the gas and cause an
explosion. Such an explosion can shatter the bat-
tery and cause blindness or other injury. Any area
that houses a storage battery must be properly
ventilated. Do not allow smoking, open flame,
sparks or any spark producing tools or equipment
near the battery.
Battery electrolyte fluid is an extremely caustic
sulfuric acid solution that can cause severe burns.
Do not permit fluid to contact eyes, skin, clothing,
painted surfaces, etc. Wear protective goggles,
protective clothing and gloves when handling a
battery. If you spill the fluid, flush the affected
area immediately with clear water.
Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The bat-
tery is capable of exploding.
Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released
electrolyte can be toxic and harmful to the skin
and eyes.
The battery represents a risk of high short circuit
current. When working on the battery, always
remove watches, rings or other metal objects, and
only use tools that have insulated handles.
VENTED BATTERIES
The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is
harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically con-
ductive and corrosive. The following procedures
are to be observed:
• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing,
• Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off
immediately with water,
• Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thoroughly
and immediately with water and seek medical atten-
tion, and
• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with an acid-
neutralizing agent. A common practice is to use a
solution of one pound (500 grams) bicarbonate of
soda to one gallon (4 liters) of water. The bicarbonate
of soda solution is to be added until the evidence of
reaction (foaming) has ceased. The resulting liquid is
to be flushed with water and the area dried.
Lead acid batteries present a risk of fire because
they generate hydrogen gas. The following proce-
dure are to be followed:
• DO NOT SMOKE when near batteries,
• DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area, and
• Discharge static electricity from body before touching
batteries by first touching a grounded metal surface.
Servicing of batteries is to be performed or supervised
by personnel knowledgeable of batteries and the
required precautions. Keep unauthorized personnel
away from batteries.
For recommended batteries, see “Specifications.” All
batteries must be at 100 percent state-of-charge before
they are installed on the generator.
When using maintenance-free batteries, it is not neces-
sary to check the specific gravity or electrolyte level.
Have these procedures performed at the intervals spec-
ified in Section 4, “Maintenance.” A negative ground sys-
tem is used. Battery connections are shown on the
wiring diagrams. Make sure all batteries are correctly
connected and terminals are tight. Observe battery
polarity when connecting batteries to the generator set.
Note:
Damage will result if the battery connections are
made in reverse.
Section 2 — Installation
Guardian Liquid-cooled 15 kW, 20 kW and 25 kW Generators