20 Operator’s Manual
Preparing the Generator
(Fig. 1)
Ground Terminal
Grounding Rod
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or
breakdown, grounding provides a path of least resistance for
electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock.
DANGER - IMPROPER CONNECTION OF THE
EQUIPMENT-GROUNDING CONDUCTOR CAN
RESULT IN A RISK OF ELECTROCUTION.
CHECK WITH A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN OR
SERVICE PERSON IF YOU ARE IN DOUBT AS
TO WHETHER THE UNIT IS PROPERLY
GROUNDED.
The ground terminal on the frame must always be used to
connect the generator to a suitable ground source. The ground
path should be made with #8 size wire. Connect the grounding
wire securely to the ground terminal. Connect the other end of
the wire securely to a suitable ground source. (Fig. 1)
The National Electric Code contains several practical ways in
which to establish a good ground source. Examples given below
illustrate a few of the ways in which a good ground source may
be established.
A metal underground water pipe in direct contact with the earth
for at least 10 feet can be used as a grounding source. If an pipe
is unavailable, an 8 foot length of pipe or rod may be used as the
ground source. The pipe should be 3/4 inch trade size or larger
and the outer surface must be noncorrosive. If a steel or iron rod
is used it should be at least 5/8 inch diameter and if a nonferrous
rod is used it should be at least 1/2 inch diameter and be listed
as material for grounding. Drive the rod or pipe to a depth of 8
feet. If a rock bottom is encountered less than 4 feet down, bury
the rod or pipe in a trench. All electrical tools and appliances
operated from this generator, must be properly grounded by use
of a third wire or be “Double Insulated”.
It is recommended to:
1. Use electrical devices with 3 prong power cords.
2. Use an extension cord with a 3 hole receptacle and a 3
prong plug at the opposite ends to ensure continuity of
the ground protection from the generator to appliance.
We strongly recommend that all applicable federal, state and
local regulations relating to grounding specifications be checked
and followed.
LINE TRANSFER SWITCH
If this generator is used for standby service, it must have
a transfer switch between the utility power service and the
generator. The transfer switch not only prevents the utility
power form feeding into the generator, but is also prevents the
generator form feeding out into the utility company’s lines. This
is intended to protect the serviceman who may be working on
a damaged line.
THIS INSTALLATION MUST BE DONE BY A LICENSED
ELECTRICIAN AND ALL LOCAL CODES MUST BE
FOLLOWED.