Installation / Initial Set-Up
21
normal line voltage. An unsuspecting utility line worker working on
what he thinks is a deactivated line could be electrocuted.
If your generator is connected (running or not) when utility power is
restored, your generator will be destroyed. It could also explode or
cause fire.
In addition to isolating your generator from the utility system, the transfer switch
connects your generator to a limited set of circuits in your building that have been
chosen as critical to operate during a power outage.
The generator may not power your entire home -- you must work with the
installing electrician to determine which devices/appliances you wish to power
during an outage. The electrician can help you determine which circuits and
devices can be powered simultaneously without overloading the generator.
(See the previous section of this manual entitled “
Power Load Planning &
Management”
for more information on load application and selection.)
Using as a
Portable Power
Source
When using the generator as a portable power source, you can plug electric
devices and appliances directly into the generator’s electrical outlets.
There are different kinds of electrical outlets on your generator:
1.
120 Volt, 20 Amp duplex straight-blade receptacles (NEMA 5-20R
duplex receptacle compatible with NEMA 5-20P or 5-15P mating plugs).
2.
120 Volt, 30 Amp locking receptacle (NEMA L5-30R receptacle
compatible with NEMA L5-30P mating plug).
3.
Make sure you plug each electrical device/appliance into the correct
generator outlet based on the device’s plug configuration and
voltage/amperage rating. Never exceed the amperage rating of an outlet.
4.
Extension cords may be used to power devices that are located at a
distance from the generator. However, use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated,
grounded extension cords of the proper size. Use Table 2 below to choose
an adequately sized extension cord according to the amperage of the
device being used and the length of the cord.
Table 2
Current/Power
Maximum Extension Cord
Length and Size (AWG)
Current At Full Load
(Amps)
0-25 ft.
25-50 ft. 50-100 ft. 100-150 ft.
6
18 ga.
16 ga.
14 ga.
12 ga.
8
18 ga.
16 ga.
12 ga.
10 ga.
10
18 ga.
14 ga.
12 ga.
10 ga.
12
16 ga.
14 ga.
10 ga.
8 ga.
14
16 ga.
12 ga.
10 ga.
8 ga.
16
16 ga.
12 ga.
10 ga.
8 ga.
18
14 ga.
12 ga.
8 ga.
8 ga.
