Generac Power Systems 005342-6, Owner'S Manual

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11
BATTERY INSTALLATION

Stationary Emergency Generators installed
with automatic transfer switches will crank
and start automatically when NORMAL (UTIL-
ITY) source voltage is removed or is below
an acceptable preset level. To prevent such
automatic start-up and possible injury to
personnel, do not connect battery cables
until certain that normal source voltage at
the transfer switch is correct and the system
is ready to be placed into operation.

Storage batteries give off explosive hydrogen
gas. This gas can form an explosive mixture
around the battery for several hours after
charging. The slightest spark can ignite the
gas and cause an explosion. Such an explo-
sion can shatter the battery and cause blind-
ness or other injury. Any area that houses a
storage battery must be properly ventilated.
Do not allow smoking, open flame, sparks or
any spark producing tools or equipment near
the battery.

Battery electrolyte fluid is an extremely
caustic sulfuric acid solution that can cause
severe burns. Do not permit fluid to contact
eyes, skin, clothing, painted surfaces, etc.
Wear protective goggles, protective clothing
and gloves when handling a battery. If fluid
is spilled, flush the affected area immedi-
ately with clear water.

Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The
battery is capable of exploding.

Do not open or mutilate the battery.
Released electrolyte can be toxic and harm-
ful to the skin and eyes.
 The battery represents a risk of high short
circuit current. When working on the battery,
always remove watches, rings or other metal
objects, and only use tools that have insu-
lated handles.
VENTED BATTERIES

The electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is
harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically
conductive and corrosive. The following pro-
cedures are to be observed:
• Wear full eye protection and protective clothing,
• Where electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off
immediately with water,
• Where electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thor-
oughly and immediately with water and seek
medical attention, and
• Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with
an acid-neutralizing agent. A common practice
is to use a solution of one pound (500 grams)
bicarbonate of soda to one gallon (4 liters) of
water. The bicarbonate of soda solution is to be
added until the evidence of reaction (foaming)
has ceased. The resulting liquid is to be flushed
with water and the area dried.
 Lead acid batteries present a risk of fire
because they generate hydrogen gas. The
following procedure are to be followed:
• DO NOT SMOKE when near batteries,
• DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area,
and
• Discharge static electricity from body before
touching batteries by first touching a grounded
metal surface.
Servicing of batteries is to be performed or supervised by person-
nel knowledgeable of batteries and the required precautions. Keep
unauthorized personnel away from batteries.
For recommended batteries, see “Specifications.” All batteries
must be at 100 percent state-of-charge before they are installed
on the generator.
When using maintenance-free batteries, it is not necessary
to check the specific gravity or electrolyte level. Have these
procedures performed at the intervals specified in Section 4,
“Maintenance.” A negative ground system is used. Battery con-
nections are shown on the wiring diagrams. Make sure all batteries
are correctly connected and terminals are tight. Observe battery
polarity when connecting batteries to the generator set.
NOTE:
Damage will result if the battery connections are made in
reverse.
Installation