Generac Power Systems XP4000 Professional, Owner'S Manual

Page: 8 / 56

6
Section 2 – Operation
Portable Generator System
2.3.2 120/240 VAC, 20 AMP RECEPTACLE
Use a NEMA L14-20 plug with this receptacle (rotate to lock/
unlock). 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
AC at 20 Amps (or greater) (Figure 7).
Figure 7 - 120/240 VAC, 20 Amp Receptacle
Use this receptacle to operate 120 Volt AC, 60 Hz, single phase
loads requiring up to 2400 watts (2.4 kW) of power at 20 Amps
or 240 Volt AC, 60 Hz, single phase loads requiring up to 4000
watts (4.0 kW) of power at 16.6 Amps. The outlet is protected by
a circuit breaker.
2.4 HOW TO USE THE GENERATOR
If there are any problems operating the generator, please call the
generator helpline at 1-888-436-3722.
2.4.1 SYSTEM GROUND
The generator has a system ground that connects the generator
frame components to the ground terminals on the AC output
receptacles. The system ground is bonded to the AC neutral wire
in the generator control panel via a jumper wire.
2.4.1.1 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.
2.4.1.2 Connecting to a Building’s Electrical System

Connections for standby power to a building’s electrical system
must be made by a qualified electrician. The connection must
isolate the generator power from utility power or other alternative
power sources and must comply with all applicable laws and
electrical codes.
2.4.2 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 9).
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.
Figure 9 - Grounding the Generator
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.
2.4.3 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".
2.5 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.