Generator Operation
THE CURRENT RANGE SELECTOR SWITCH (LOCATED AT
THE TOP RIGHT OF THE ALTERNATOR CONTROL PANEL)
MUST BE SET TO NUMBER 3 (FAR RIGHT POSITION) FOR
120VAC & 240VAC OPERATION. REFER TO FIGURE 6
(PAGE 13)
1. All load devices and extension cords should use three prong
terminals. Refer to Table 1 (page 13) for extension cord and cable
size requirements.
2. Allow the engine to run for 2-3 minutes before applying any
electrical loads.
3. The 120 volt duplex receptacles are rated for 20 amps and may
be used in any combination of 120 volt loads and also with 240
volt loads through the 240 volt receptacles.
All receptacles are part of a circuit protected by a Ground Fault
Circuit Interupter (GFCI). Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters can
significantly reduce the possibility of injury if an electrical short
occurs. The engine must be running and the front panel switches set
to supply power to the receptacles before the GFCI can be reset.
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter may not be
effective if the unit is not grounded! Refer to
the section entitled Grounding for proper steps to ground the unit.
The 120 / 240 volt twist lock receptacle is rated for 30 amps and
may be used in any combination of 120 volt and 240 volt loads.
4. Individual receptacles should not be loaded beyond the
amperage rating.
5. Total combined load through any combination of receptacles
must not exceed the rated load limits of the unit. Refer to the
identification plate on the unit for amp and wattage specifications.
6. Always shut off and remove loads before starting or shutting off
the engine.
7. When plugging multiple electrical load devices into the
receptacles, be sure to connect and activate the highest power
draw item first. Allow the engine to stabilize, then connect and
activate the next highest power draw device. The smallest power
draw device should be connected to the receptacle and activated
last.
NOTE: Power draw can be calculated by multiplying volts and amps.
The resulting number is wattage.
Never exceed the posted maximum wattage for the unit or any
individual receptacle. Refer to owner's manuals and product tags to
determine the wattage of all electrical load devices.
Remember that devices which generate heat during operation such
as heaters, incandescent light bulbs, motors and hair dryers have
a higher power draw than devices which generate little heat during
operation such as florescent bulbs, radios, and clocks.
12
Long power cords and extension cords also draw additional power.
Keep cords at minimum possible length.
Refer to Table 1 (page 13) for maximum limits for lengths of
extension cords.
8. Circuit protection is provided by circuit breakers. The main circuit
breaker is a rocker type rated for 30 amps. This is the maximum
total current draw for all receptacles in combination. A 20 amp
circuit breaker supplies each of the two duplex receptacles.
The circuit breaker opens when the load exceeds its maximum
capacity or a short circuit occurs. If the circuit breaker opens,
perform the following procedures to correct the problem:
a.
Shut off and disconnect all electrical loads.
b.
Attempt to determine the cause of the electrical
problem - overloading or short circuit.
c.
Do not use any devices that have short circuits.
Avoid overloading the unit.
d.
Press the circuit breaker pushbutton or rocker to reset
the circuit breaker.
Repeated cycling of the circuit breaker
indicates a problem and may cause damage to
the unit or load devices. Do not operate the unit if repeated cycling
of the circuit breaker occurs.
INSTALLATION FOR STAND-BY USE
Precautions must be taken to prevent electrical back feeding into
utility systems. This requires isolation of the electrical system. To
isolate the electrical system, perform the following procedures:
1. Turn off the main electrical system switch prior to connecting the
unit.
2. In accordance with national and local standards, a double throw
transfer switch must be installed in the system.
Always shut off main power prior to temporary
connection of the unit to a building electrical
system.
Installation of the unit as a backup electrical
source must be performed by a qualified
(licensed or certified) electrical technician.