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10 Generac
®
Power Systems, Inc.
2.7 BATTERY INSTALLATION
Standby generators installed with automatic trans-
fer switches will crank and start automatically
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 the
normal source voltage at the transfer switch is cor-
rect and the system is ready to be placed 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 fluid is spilled, flush the affected area
immediately with clear water.
Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
battery 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.
2.7.1 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-
dures 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 “Battery Maintenance”
page 16. 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
reversed.
2.8 PREPARATION BEFORE START-UP
The instructions in this section assume that the standby
generator has been properly installed, serviced, tested,
adjusted and otherwise prepared for use by a competent,
qualified installation contractor. Be sure to read the
“Safety Rules” on Pages 2 and 3, as well as all other safe-
ty information in this manual, before attempting to oper-
ate this (and related) equipment.
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Section 2 — Installation
Guardian Liquid-cooled 40 kW Generator