Voltmaster XAF105, Owner'S Manual, Page: 24 / 46

18 Voltmaster Engine-Driven Generators
Operation: Before starting
3.1.7 Standby installations
If the generator will be connected to existing electric circuits during
a commercial power outage, the installation must provide a positive
means of isolating the commercial and generator power. The most
common means for isolation protection is to incorporate a suitably
rated double-throw, double-pole manual transfer switch.
The National Electrical Code, the state of California, many state and
local codes, and Canadian Hydro all require an isolation switch
between the generator and the utility line. Consult all applicable
national and your codes prior to installation.
A potential hazard exists during a power outage if the generator
output is connected to the dead home or commercial electric
circuits and no means is provided to isolate the electric circuits from
the commercial power source. A power utility lineman working to
return electric service to normal has every reason to believe that the
line is dead. If your electric circuits are not isolated, the generator
output will back feed to the power line and the lineman may be
electrocuted when he attempts repairs.
Furthermore, if the utility and generator are not isolated, and utility
power is restored while the generator is still powering the electric
circuits, severe damage to the generator will occur and the
possibility exists for an electrical fire.
Always employ a licensed electrician or electrical contractor to
install the power-isolation switch. This is not a do-it-yourself job.
WARNING
Shock hazard.
Failure to isolate generator from power utility
can result in death or serious injury.
When using the generator for backup power:
■
Never connect the generator output to any live
home or commercial electric circuits.
■
Use a suitable power-transfer device to isolate
the generator from the power utility.
■
Use a licensed electrician or electrical
contractor to install the power-transfer device.