Centurion 005790-0, Owner'S Manual, Page: 8 / 56

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Section 2 – Operation
Portable Generator System
2.2 CORD SETS AND CONNECTION PLUGS
2.2.1 120 VAC DUPLEX RECEPTACLE
This is a 120 Volt outlet protected against overload by a 14 Amp circuit
breaker (Figure 7). 14 Amps of current may be drawn from each socket,
however, total power drawn must be kept within data plate ratings. Use
only high quality, well insulated, 3-wire grounded cord sets rated for 125
Volts at 20 Amps (or greater).
2.2.2 120/240 VAC, 20A TWISTLOCK RECEPTACLE
This is a 120/240 Volt outlet protected against overload by a 14
Amp circuit breaker (Figure 7). Connect a suitable 4-wire grounded
cord set to the plug and to the desired load. The cord set should
be rated for 250 volts at 20 amps (or greater) if the 120/240
receptacle is used along with 120 volt receptacle. The total load
drawn must not exceed the data label ratings.
IMPORTANT: Do not overload the generator. Also, do not overload
individual panel receptacles. These outlets are protected against
overload with circuit breakers. If amperage rating of any circuit
breaker is exceeded, that breaker opens and electrical output
to that receptacle is lost. Read “Don’t Overload the Generator”
carefully.
Figure 7 - 120 VAC Duplex & 120/240 VAC Twistlock
2.3 HOW TO USE THE GENERATOR
If there are any problems operating the generator, please call the
generator helpline at 1-888-436-3722.
2.3.1 GROUNDING THE GENERATOR
The National Electrical Code requires that the frame and
external electrically conductive parts of this generator be
properly connected to an approved earth ground (Figure 8)
.
Local electrical codes may also require proper grounding of the
unit. 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
2.3.2 CONNECTING ELECTRICAL LOADS
DO NOT connect 240 Volt loads to 120 Volt receptacles. DO NOT
connect 3-phase loads to the generator. DO NOT connect 50 Hz
loads to the generator.
Let engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after starting. •
Plug in and turn on the desired 120 or 240 Volt AC, single phase, 60 •
Hz electrical loads.
Add up the rated watts (or amps) of all loads to be connected at •
one time. This total should not be greater than (a) the rated wattage/
amperage capacity of the generator or (b) circuit breaker rating of the
receptacle supplying the power. See "Don't Overload the Generator".
2.4 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).
Some electric motors, such as induction types, require about •
three times more watts of power for starting than for running.
This surge of power lasts only a few seconds when starting
such motors. Make sure to allow for high starting wattage when
selecting electrical devices to connect to the generator:
1. Figure the watts needed to start the largest motor.
2. Add to that figure the running watts of all other connected
loads.
The Wattage Reference Guide is provided to assist in determining how
many items the generator can operate at one time.
NOTICE:
All figures are approximate. See data label on appliance for
wattage requirements.