12 Generac
®
Power Systems, Inc.
Section 2 — Installation
Generac Liquid-cooled 20 kW Generator
Proper grounding helps protect personnel against
electrical shock in the event of a ground fault condi-
tion in the generator or in connected electrical
devices. In addition, grounding helps dissipate static
electricity that often builds up in ungrounded
devices.
Figure 2.2 – Generator Grounding Lug (typical)
2.8
GENERATOR AC NEUTRAL
CONNECTIONS
Generac uses an UNGROUNDED AC neutral.
Grounding is recommended only at the main service
entrance. If the neutral wire is grounded and one of
the phase loads becomes grounded, the excessive
current opens the load circuit breaker or collapses
the generator field. The actual result depends on the
electrical characteristics of the particular installed
generator.
2.9
BATTERY INSTALLATION
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 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 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 fluid is spilled, flush the
affected area immediately with clear water.
Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. The bat-
tery 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.
2.9.1 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 proce-
dures 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 med-
ical 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) bicarbon-
ate 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 fol-
lowing 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 touch-
ing batteries by first touching a grounded metal
surface.
Servicing of batteries is to be performed or super-
vised by personnel knowledgeable of batteries and
the required precautions. Keep unauthorized person-
nel 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.
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DANGER
