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2.3 HOW TO USE THE GENERATOR
If you have any problems operating your generator, please call the
generator helpline at 1-800-333-1322.
2.3.1 GROUNDING THE GENERATOR
The National Electrical Code requires that the frame
and external electrically 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, generally, connecting a No. 10 AWG
(American Wire Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding wing nut
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 your area.
Figure 13 - Grounding the Generator
Proper grounding of the generator will help prevent
electrical shock
in the event of a ground fault condition in the
generator or in connected electrical devices. Proper grounding also
helps dissipate static electricity, which often builds up in ungrounded
devices.
2.3.2 CONNECTING ELECTRICAL LOADS
DO NOT
connect 240 Volt loads to 120 Volt receptacles.
DO NOT
connect 3-phase loads to the generator.
DO NOT
connect 50 Hz
loads to the generator.
• Let engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after starting.
• Plug in and turn on the desired 120 or 240 Volt AC, single phase, 60
Hz electrical loads.
• Add up the rated watts (or amps) of all loads to be connected at one
time. This total should not be greater than (a) the rated
wattage/amperage capacity of the generator or (b) circuit breaker
rating of the receptacle supplying the power. See "Don't Overload
the Generator" below.
2.4 DON’T OVERLOAD THE
GENERATOR
Overloading a generator in excess of its rated wattage capacity can
result in damage to the generator and to connected electrical devices.
Observe the following to prevent overloading the unit:
• Add up the total wattage of all electrical devices to be connected at
one time. This total should NOT be greater than the generator's
wattage capacity.
• The rated wattage of lights can be taken from light bulbs. The rated
wattage of tools, appliances and motors can usually be found on a
data plate 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 about 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 you allow for this high starting wattage when selecting electrical
devices to connect to your generator:
1. Figure 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 on page 10 is provided to assist you in
determining how many items your generator can operate at one time.
(Note: All figures are approximate. See data plate on appliance for
wattage requirements.)
9
Section 2 – Operation
Commercial-Industrial-Residential Portable Generator System
Generator Ground Lug