Product Manual

8
2.4.1 GROUNDING THE GENERATOR WHEN USED AS A
PORTABLE
This generator has an equipment ground that connects the
generator frame components to the ground terminals on the AC
output receptacles (see NEC 250.34 (A) for explanation). This
allows the generator to be used as a portable without grounding
the frame of the generator as specified in NEC 250.34.
Special Requirements
There may be Federal or State Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) regulations, local codes, or ordinances that
apply to the intended use of the generator.
Please consult a qualified electrician, electrical inspector, or the
local agency having jurisdiction:
• In some areas, generators are required to be registered with
local utility companies.
• If the generator is used at a construction site, there may be
additional regulations which must be observed.
2.4.2 CONNECTING THE GENERATOR TO A BUILDING’S
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Connections for standby power to a building’s electrical system
must be made by a qualified electrician and in strict compliance
with all national and local electrical codes and laws. The
connection must isolate the generator power from utility power or
other alternative power sources.
NOTE:
Because the generator equipment ground is bonded to the AC
neutral wires in the generator, either a 3-pole transfer switch or
a 2 pole transfer switch with a switching neutral kit is required
to connect this generator to a building load. In this application
the generator becomes a separately derived system (see NEC
250.20 (D)), and must be grounded in accordance with the
national or local electrical code requirements.
Grounding the Generator in a Building Standby Application

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 (Figure 8). For that purpose, connecting a No. 10 AWG
(American Wire Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding lug
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 the area.
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.
Figure 8 - Grounding the Generator
2.5 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 label 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).
Operation