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Generac
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Power Systems, Inc. 11
2.10 BATTERY INSTALLATION
Standby generators installed with automatic
transfer switches will crank and start automati-
cally when NORMAL (UTILITY) source voltage is
removed or is below an acceptable preset level.
To prevent such automatic start-up and possible
injury to personnel, do not connect battery
cables until the NORMAL source voltage at the
transfer switch is correct and the system is
ready to be put 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 battery 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 the fluid is spilled, 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 cir-
cuit current. When working on the battery,
always remove watches, rings or other metal
objects, and only use tools that have insulated
handles.
2.10.1 VENTED BATTERIES
The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is
harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically
conductive and corrosive. The following proce-
dures 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 thor-
oughly and immediately with water and seek med-
ical attention, 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) bicarbon-
ate 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 fol-
lowing procedure 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 touch-
ing batteries by first touching a grounded metal
surface.
Servicing of batteries is to be performed or super-
vised by personnel knowledgeable of batteries and
the required precautions. Keep unauthorized person-
nel 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 nec-
essary to check the specific gravity or electrolyte level.
Have these procedures performed at the intervals
specified in Section 4, “Maintenance.” A negative
ground system is used. Battery connections are
shown on the wiring diagrams. Make sure all batter-
ies 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.
2.11 PREPARATION BEFORE START-UP
The instructions in this section assume that the stand-
by 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 safety information in this manual, before
attempting to operate this (and related) equipment.
2.11.1 PRIOR TO INITIAL START-UP
Prior to initially starting the generator, it must
be properly prepared for use. Any attempt to
crank or start the engine before it has been
properly serviced with the recommended types
and quantities of engine fluids (oil, coolant,
fuel, etc.) may result in an engine failure.
Before starting the generator for the first time, the
installer must complete the following procedures. For
follow-up maintenance information and/or service
intervals, please refer to Section 4, “Maintenance.”
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DANGER
Section 2 — Installation
Guardian Liquid-cooled 15 kW, 20 kW and 25 kW Generators