Generac Portable Products 3250 Watt Generator
8
GROUNDING THE
GENERATOR
The National Electric Code requires the frame and
external electrically conductive parts of the generator be
properly connected to approved earth ground. Local
electrical codes may also require proper grounding of the
unit. For this purpose, a grounding wing nut (Figure 2) is
provided on the cradle.
Generally, connecting a No. 12 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.
Be sure to keep the ground wire attached while you
connect the electrode.
Properly grounding the generator helps prevent electrical
shock if a ground fault condition exists in the generator or
in connected electrical devices, especially when the unit is
equipped with a wheel kit. Proper grounding also helps
dissipate static electricity, which often builds up in
ungrounded devices.
OPERATING THE
GENERATOR
CAUTION!
NEVER start or stop unit with
electrical loads connected AND with the connected
devices turned ON.
Starting the Engine
Disconnect all electrical loads from the generator. Use the
following start instruction steps by numerical order:
• Start the engine according to instructions given in the
engine owner’s manual.
Connecting Electrical Loads
• Let engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after
starting.
• Plug in and turn on the desired 120 Volt AC, single
phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.
• DO NOT connect 240 Volt loads to the 120 Volt duplex
receptacles.
• DO NOT connect 3–phase loads to the generator.
• DO NOT connect 50 Hz loads to the generator.
• DO NOT OVERLOAD THE GENERATOR. See
“Don’t Overload the Generator” on page 10.
Stopping the Engine
• Unplug all electrical loads from generator panel
receptacles. NEVER start or stop engine with electrical
devices plugged in and turned ON.
• Let engine run at no-load for several minutes to stabilize
the internal temperatures of engine and generator.
• Turn engine off according to instructions given in the
engine owner’s manual.
RECEPTACLES
120 Volt AC, 20 Amp Duplex
Receptacle
This receptacle (Figure 3) is protected against overload by
a push-to-reset circuit breaker.
Figure 2 — Grounding Wing Nut
Grounding
Wing Nut
