Generac
®
Power Systems, Inc.
13
Section 4 – Maintenance
Generac Standby Generator Sets
4.2
PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
A rigorous program of scheduled periodic mainte-
nance should be established and maintained. Such a
program, if adhered to diligently, will provide added
assurance that your power system functions proper-
ly when it is needed.
Keeping a “Maintenance Log” is highly recommended.
Such a log should be a continuous record of repairs,
parts replacements, gauge and instrument readings
during operational tests, etc.
Generac recommends that a “Customer Maintenance
Inspection Agreement” be established between the
user of this equipment and the installing Generac
Authorized Service Dealer. Under this agreement,
(Part No. 53263), a Generac Authorized Service
Technician performs prestart and engine running
tests and checks at six-month and one-year intervals.
Ask your Generac Authorized Service Dealer (or con-
sult the factory) about this agreement.
The tasks listed in the “Service Schedule” (Page 17)
cover the minimum recommended maintenance
requirements for this equipment.
Note that many of the tests and checks listed in the
schedule are to be performed only by a Generac
Authorized Service Technician. Fluid capacities and
recommendations, as well as other applicable speci-
fications, are listed in “Specifications” (Page 7).
4.2.1 TEST STANDBY GENERATOR SYSTEM
OPERATION AND COMPONENTS
An authorized operator should test the operation of
the standby generator system and inspect its compo-
nents monthly (or 100 hours). This should include
inspecting the transfer switch for evidence of arcing,
and pitted or burned contacts; inspecting wiring and
grounding connections (see “Grounding the
Generator,” Page 13); and ensuring that starting
devices are operational. During this operational test,
all instrument and gauge readings should be record-
ed in a “Maintenance Log.” The transfer system also
should be tested at this time; the engine should
be run at least 30 minutes and any discrepancies
corrected immediately.
Every six months (or 200 hours), a Generac
Authorized Service Technician should perform a
system operational test.
4.2.2 INSPECT BATTERY
Standby generators installed with automatic
transfer switches will crank and start automati-
cally when normal (utility) 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 you are certain that normal source
voltage at the transfer switch is correct and
you are ready to place the system into opera-
tion.
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 explosion can
shatter the battery and cause blindness 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 you spill the fluid, flush
the affected area immediately 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 harmful to the skin
and eyes.
The battery represents a risk of high short cir-
cuit current. When working on the battery,
always remove watches, rings or other metal
objects, and only use tools that have insulated
handles.
An authorized operator should inspect the engine
battery system monthly (or 100 hours). At this time,
the battery fluid level should be checked and distilled
water added if needed. Battery cables and connec-
tions also should be inspected for cleanliness and
corrosion.
Once every six months (or 200 hours), a Generac
Authorized Service Technician should inspect the
battery system. At this time the battery condition and
state of charge should be checked using a battery
hydrometer. The battery should be recharge or
replaced as required.
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