North Star M165939M.2 User Manual

M165939M.2

ITEM NUMBER: 165939

Owner’s Manual

Instructions for Installation/Set-up, Operation, Servicing, & Storage

Portable, Outdoor Use-Only, Triple Fuel Generator

SERIAL NUMBER: _____________

10,500 Watt Continuous (13,000 Watt Surge) Capacity

Can be used to power individual appliances plugged directly into the generator’s outlets, or as a back-up connection to a building’s power supply (via a professionally installed UL-approved transfer switch.

WARNING

READ and UNDERSTAND this manual completely before using the generator! Failure to properly set up,

operate, and maintain this generator could result in serious injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock, fire/explosion, or burns. In particular, be aware of the following hazards:

Generators give off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it.

• ONLY run generator OUTDOORS and AWAY from building air intakes. NEVER run generator inside any enclosed or

semi-enclosed spaces, including homes, basements, garages, sheds , boxes , RVs, boats or pick-up truck beds. These spaces can trap poisonous gases, EVEN if you run a fan or open windows.

• Carbon monoxide is given off whether you are using gasoline, natural gas, or propane to powe r the ge nerator.

• Install carbon monoxide alarms inside nearby struct u res/b ui l di n gs (batt e r y -o perat ed , or pl u g-in with battery backup).

Electric shock / Electrocution

• High voltage electricity from generator can kill. DO NOT operate in wet locations. Be sure generator is properly

grounded. Use only UL-listed, outdoor-rated grounded extension cords of proper size.

• NEVER plug the generator directly into a wall outlet. ANY connection to a building’s electrical system MUST

ISOLATE THE GENERATOR FROM UTILITY POWER via a UL-approved transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician. Otherwise, back feed from the generator into the power grid could kill utility workers.

• DO NOT overload generator (per rated capacity), and OPERATE ONLY in an area with adequate cooling ventilation so

engine does not overheat. Exhaust can be extremely hot. Keep muffler at least 7’ from all combustible objects.

• All fuels are flammable. Never fuel a running or hot engine. Never pump fuel directly into generator at gas station – use

approved container to transfer fuel. Ensure there are no fuel leaks, and keep sources of sparks and flames away.

• LPG/NG hook-ups must be completed by a certified gas technician and comply with all federal and local requirements.

• ALWAYS keep a fire extinguisher rated “ABC” nearby.

CO Poisoning

Fire / Explosion

STOP!

CHOOSE THE RIGHT GENERATOR FOR YOUR NEEDS. See the “Power load Planning & Management” section

of this manual to determine your power load requirements and then compare to the generator’s rated capacity.

INSPECT COMPONENTS: Closely inspect to make sure no components are missing or damaged. See the “Unpacking

& Delivery Inspection” section for instructions on whom to contact to report missing or damaged parts.

ARRANGE FOR PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION of transfer switch and/or NG/LPG hook-ups, if they will be used.

See the “Installation/Initial Set-Up” section for more information about these requirements.

Any Questions, Comments, Problems, or Parts Orders

Call NorthStar Product Support 1-800-270-0810

Hazard Signal Word Definitions

Table of Contents

Hazard Signal Word Definitions ................................................................................................. 2

About Your Generator ................................................................................................................. 4

Specifications ................................................................................................................................. 6

Safety Label Locations .................................................................................................................. 7

Machine Component Identification ............................................................................................. 8

Power Load Planning & Management ........................................................................................ 11

Installation / Initial Set-Up:

1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection .......................................................................................... 13

2. Planning the Power Load ........................................................................................................ 13

3. Gas Hook-up Installation for Natural Gas or Propane (LPG) – if using ................................ 14

4. Set-up as a PORTABLE or BUILDING BACK-UP Power Source ...................................... 16

5. Selecting a Suitable Site ......................................................................................................... 19

6. Grounding the Generator ........................................................................................................ 21

7. Battery Installation ................................................................................................................. 22

8. Spark Arrester Installation ...................................................................................................... 22

Operation:

1. General Safety Rules for Operation ....................................................................................... 23

2. Preparing for Operation .......................................................................................................... 26

3. Starting the Engine ................................................................................................................. 30

4. Checking Generator Output .................................................................................................... 32

5. Connecting Loads ................................................................................................................... 33

6. Switching Fuels (during operation) ........................................................................................ 34

7. Stopping the Engine ............................................................................................................... 34

8. Storage & Exercise ................................................................................................................. 35

Maintenance & Repair .................................................................................................................. 37

Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................. 39

Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation ....................................................... 40

Generator Exploded View ............................................................................................................ 45

Wiring Diagram ............................................................................................................................. 47

Fuel Delivery System ..................................................................................................................... 49

Generator Head Exploded View .................................................................................................. 50

Limited Warranty ......................................................................................................................... 51

About Your Generator

Thank you for purchasing your NorthStar portable generator!

About Your Generator

This engine-driven, portable generator is designed to provide up to 8000 Watts of electrical power (10,500 watts continuous, 13,000 watts surge). It can supply power:

1. As a portable power source. You can plug appliances directly into the generator’s

electrical outlets.

2. As a back up, standby power source for a building. A licensed electrician can connect

the generator to your building’s electrical system via the installation of an UL-approved transfer switch. (See the “Installation & Initial Set-up” section of this manual to learn more about specific requirements and precautions relating to wiring the generator to your building’s electrical system.)

You must select a generator adequately sized for your power needs. You need to determine the power needs of all the appliances/tools you wish to power at the same time and choose a generator rated to provide at least that power level. See the “Power Load Planning & Management” section of this manual to determine your specific power load requirements and then compare them to this generator’s rated capacity. You must not overload the generator. Overloading will cause damage to the generator and attached electrical devices, and may also result in fire.

You can power this generator with gasoline, natural gas (NG), or propane (LP) gas. The generator is designed so that it is easy to switch between fuel sources. However, there are special initial hook-up requirements for natural gas and propane. See the “Specifications” section of this manual with regard to specific gas flow and pressure requirements. In addition, note the following:

♦ Natural gas. The standard delivery pressure provided to your building by your utility

company may not match the requirements of your generator.

a) If your standard delivery pressure is higher than allowable for this generator, you

may need to have a pressure-reducing regulator installed. (Note: The regulator supplied with this generator is NOT a pressure-reducing regulator).

b) If your standard delivery pressure is lower than allowable for this generator, you will

need changes to your natural gas service to elevate the delivery pressure.

ALL natural gas hook-ups must be completed by trained personnel from your natural gas utility company and inspected as required by your local building code.

♦ Propane (LP). You will need a minimum 100 lb. LPG gas tank to run this generator – the

vaporization rate is insufficient with smaller tank sizes. A qualified propane gas technician must set up the valve and hose connection between the propane tank and generator in accordance with all local regulations and electric code.

See the “Installation / Initial Set-Up: Step 3” section of this manual for more detailed information.

Be sure to read about site selection and grounding requirements for running this generator. More detailed information can be found in the “Installation & Initial Set-up, Steps

5 & 6” of this manual.

About Your Generator (cont’d)

This generator is too heavy for one person to lift without mechanical assistance. An optional wheel kit is available from NorthStar and is recommended if you will be moving the generator unassisted. Other optional accessories available from NorthStar include a vinyl cover for storage, UL-approved transfer switches, and extension cords.

Contact NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810

with questions about optional accessories or to order.

Read this Manual

Improper use or maintenance of this generator can result in serious injury or death from

carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock/electrocution, fire/explosion, or burns.

Read this manual completely before using the generator and follow all instructions and

safety rules.

You must follow all instructions and safety precautions presented throughout this manual. A summary of important safety information can be found at the end of the manual. Keep this manual for reference and review.

Proper preparation, operation, and maintenance will result in operator safety, as well as best performance and long life of the generator. For detailed engine operation and maintenance information, always refer to the engine Owner’s Manual furnished with the generator.

NorthStar is constantly improving its products. The specifications outlined herein are subject to change without prior notice or obligation. The purchaser and/or user shall assume liability for any modification and/or alterations of this equipment from original design and manufacture.

Before using, the user shall determine the suitability of this product for its intended use and assumes liability therein.

Contact NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810 for any questions about the appropriate use of this generator.

WARNING

Warranty Registration

Please fill out and submit the warranty registration card so that we have your contact information for any future product literature or replacement parts you may need.

ATTENTION:

All Rental Companies and Private Owners who loan this

equipment to others!

All persons to whom you rent/loan this generator must have access to and read this manual. Keep this owner’s manual with the generator at all times and advise all persons who will operate the machine to read it. You must also provide personal instruction on how to safely operate the generator and remain available to answer any questions a renter/borrower might have.

Specifications

SPECIFICATIONS

Item Number #165939 Maximum Output 13500 Watts (W) Continuous Output: Gasoline Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) Natural Gas (NG) Voltage 120 / 240 Volt (V) Phase Single phase (4-wire) Frequency Regulation 56.5 - 63.3 Hertz (Hz) Voltage Regulation 218 - 258 V Power Factor 1.0 p.f. Engine 20 HP Honda Engine Speed 3390 - 3798 RPM Fuel Type Unleaded gasoline/LPG/NG Pressure Range (LPG, NG) 7-11” Water Column, 4-6 oz. Min. Flow Range (LPG, NG) 2.2 Gal/Hr (LPG), 3.25 CFM (NG) Fuel Capacity 10.0 Gallons (38.0 L) Oil Capacity See Honda Manual Starting Method Electric 120V Receptacle 20 Amp (A) duplex (NEMA 5-20R)

120/240V Receptacle 30 Amp (A) locking device

50 Amp (A) straight blade (NEMA 14-50R)

Circuit Breaker (1) 50 Amp (A) thermal magnetic

(1) 30 Amp (A) thermal magnetic (1) 30 Amp (A) thermal, push to reset (2) 30 Amp (A) thermal, push to reset

Battery (not included) 12 Volt, 400 CCA minimum, Dimensions

Length 35.75” (90.8 cm) Width 24.25” (61.6 cm) Height 26.25” (66.7 cm) Dry Weight 340 lb. (155 kg) Gross Weight 410 lb. (186 kg)

10500 Watts (W)

9600 Watts (W) 8400 Watts (W)

30 Amp (A) locking device

(NEMA L5-30R)

(NEMA L14-30R)

Group size U1

Safety Label Locations

BATTERIES:

1) contain caustic acid, 2) em it e xplosive gases, 3) can cause electric shock ALWAYS use eye protection. Caustic acid and ex plosive gas es can cause blindness or severe burns. NO smoking, sparks, or flames. NEVER touch both battery terminals at the same time with your hand or any non-insulated tools. FLUSH immediately with w at er if ba ttery acid c ontacts eyes, skin, or clothing. CONNECT c ables in correct se quence: FIRST RED to POS ITIVE terminal, th e n BLACK to NEG A TIVE terminal. When disconnecting, DISCONNECT BLA CK cable first, then RED. NEVER charge a visibly damaged or frozen battery. ALWAYS read and follow charger instructions.

IF GENERATO R IS TO BE STORED LONGER THA N 2 M ONTHS,

charge battery with a trickle charger that is rated for 3 amps maximum.

Always make sure safety labels are in place and in good condition. If a safety label is missing or not legible, order new labels or unsafe operation could result.

To order replacement safety labels, call NorthStar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810.

WARNING - BATTERY HAZARDS

ATTENTION

A charged battery ensures reliable engine starting.

PN 779396

On-Product Warning Labels

Part numbers Description

779396 Battery Warning 779427 Warning 1 779464 Warning 2

Machine Component Identification - Item #165939M.2

Figure 1 (Ref. 1-19)

Ref. Description Ref. Description

1 Air Cleaner 15 Hour Meter 2 Gas Cap with Gauge 16 Oil Drain Area 3 10.0 Gallon Gas Tank 17 Demand Regulator Assembly 4 Battery Box 18 Engine Oil Drain Plug 5 LPG/NG-3/4” NPT Gas Inlet 19 Oil Level Dip Stick 6 120/240V, 50A, Circuit Breaker 20 Engine Oil Fill Port 7 120/240V, 50A Receptacle 21 Engine Key Switch 8 120/240V, 30A Receptacle 22 Engine Choke Lever

9 120/240V, 30A, Circuit Breaker 23 Vibration Isolation Mount 10 120V, 30A Receptacle 24 Engine Oil Filter 11 120V, 30A Circuit Breaker 25 Muffler 12 120V, 20A Circuit Breaker 26 Generator Head 13 120V, 20A, Duplex Receptacle 27 Gas Line Shutoff Valve 14 Fuel Selector Switch

Figure 2 (Ref. 20-27)

Machine Component Identification - Item #165939M.2

REFERENCE GUIDE

Reference 1 – Air Cleaner Reference 2 – Gas Cap with Gauge

Reference 3 – 10.0 Gallon Gas Tank Large tank allows for extended run capabilities. Always allow

Reference 4 – Battery Box

Reference 5 - LPG/NG-3/4” NPT Gas Inlet

Reference 6 - 120/240V, 50A, Circuit Breaker

Reference 7 - 120/240V, 50A Receptacle

Reference 8 - 120/240V, 30A Receptacle

Reference 9 - 120/240V, 30A, Circuit Breaker

Reference 10 - 120V, 30A Receptacle

Reference 11 - 120V, 30A Circuit Breaker

Reference 12 - 120V, 20A Circuit Breaker

Refer to your Honda engine manual for air cleaner care. The gas cap is extra large, creating a large hole for refueling and a comfortable grip. You can always monitor the fu el level without removing the cap by using the fuel level indicator built into the gas cap.

room for gasoline expansion by not filling the gas tank completely full. The battery box provides protection for the battery and will accept the standard lawn tractor size battery (Group U1-7). The engine requires a 12 volts battery. See battery section for sizing. WARNING Hookup must comply with the Federal and Local jurisdiction of Liquid Petroleum (LP) and Natural Gas (NG). ALWAYS have a qualified technician complete the LP/NG hookup. Improper installation can cause injury or death. LP/NG are lethal and explosive gases. If you smell gas, exit area immediately, if possible shut off the LP/NG supply. Before you start engine, smell next to floor for gas, if you do smell gas:

• DO NOT start engine.

• DO NOT light a match.

• DO NOT flip on an electrical switch.

• Exit area immediately and call gas supplier or fire

department. Minimum flow range required: NG - 3.25 CFM; LPG - 9.33 LB/hr., or 2.2 GAL/hr. Pressure Range: 4-6 ounces, OR 7-11 inches of water column. NEVER over pressurize. This portable generator has one 120/240 volt, 50 Amp thermal magnetic 2 pole circuit breaker. This circuit breaker is the main line circuit breaker and will sever power to the control panel receptacles when in the off or tripped position. To reset this circuit breaker, move the circuit breaker handle to the OFF position. Then move the breaker handle to the ON position. If the circuit breaker continues to trip, reduce load to the generator. If nuisance tripping continues one or more electrical loads may be defective and must be repaired by a qualified electrician. The generator control panel has one 120/240 volt, 50 amp NEMA 14-50R receptacle. This receptacle is protected by Reference 6. The mating plug for this receptacle is a NEMA 14-50P. This receptacle is useful when installing a transfer switch. The generator control panel has one 120/240 volt, 30 amp NEMA L14-30R locking device receptacle. This receptacle is protected by Reference 9. The mating plug for this receptacle is a NEMA L14-30P. This generator has one 120/240 volt, 30 Amp thermal magnetic 2 pole circuit breaker. To reset this circuit breaker, move the circuit breaker handle to the OFF position. Then move the breaker handle to the ON position. The control panel has one 120 volt, 30 amp NEMA L5-30R receptacle. This receptacle is protected by Reference 11. The mating plug for this receptacle is a NEMA L5-30P. The generator control panel has a 120-volt, 30 amp thermal circuit breaker. To reset the circuit breaker, wait 15 seconds and press the extended button back into the circuit breaker housing. The generator control panel has two 120 volt, 20 amp thermal circuit breakers. To reset the circuit breaker, wait 15 seconds

Machine Component Identification - Item #165939M.2

and press the extended button back into the circuit breaker housing.

Reference 13 - 120V, 20A, Duplex Receptacle

Reference 14 - Fuel Selector Switch Switching from LP or NG to gasoline:

Reference 15 – Hour Meter

Reference 16 – Oil Drain Area

Reference 17 – Demand Regulator Assembly Reference 18 – Oil Drain Plug

Reference 19 – Oil Level Dip Stick

Reference 20 – Engine Oil Fill Port Reference 21 – Engine Key Switch

Reference 22 – Engine Choke Lever

Reference 23 – Vibration Isolation Mount

Reference 24 – Engine Oil Filter Replace the oil filter at each oil change. Replace with Honda

Reference 25 – Muffler

Reference 26 – Generator Head Reference 27 – Gas Line Shutoff Valve

The generator has a control panel with two duplex (two receptacles in a common housing) receptacles. This duplex is a 120-volt (V) 20 amp (A) straight blade receptacle, National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA) number 5-20R. This receptacle accepts NEMA plug number 5-20P. The duplex is capable of drawing 20A out of either receptacle or a combination of both.

1. Disconnect all loads to generator.

2. Turn the gas line valve to ON position.

3. Flip the fuel selection switch to the GASOLINE position.

Switching from gasoline to LP or NG:

1. Disconnect all loads to generator.

2. Make sure LP or NG fuel is being supplied.

3. Flip the fuel selection switch to the LP/NG position.

4. Momentary sputtering is common.

5. Turn gasoline line valve to OFF position. The control panel includes an hour meter to monitor engine run time. The hour meter will not work if the 120 volt, 20 amp circuit breaker is OFF (Reference 12). This product was designed with a large window in the base directly below the engine oil drain plug (Reference 18). The large window facilitates a quick and clean process to change engine oil. Controls the flow of LP or NG gas into the engine carburetor.

Refer to your Honda engine manual for oil change recommendations. Refer to your Honda engine manual for proper oil level recommendations. Remove the oil fill cap to add engine oil. The engine key switch is located on the front of the engine. Always locate this switch and be familiar with its location before operating the generator. Used during cold starts. Refer to the Honda engine manual for usage. The engine and generator head is mounted on rubber cylinders that absorb most of the engine vibration. This feature eliminates the tendency of the machine to “walk” which is common with engine-powered equipment.

genuine replacement parts. This generator is equipped with a quiet style muffler. The muffler is designed to allow moisture (condensation) to drain from the bottom of the canister. Always check for loose fasteners. Included spark arrestor is shipped loose. See Spark Arrestor Installation section of this manual for information. The electricity producing part of the generator. The fuel tank has an ON-OFF valve mounted underneath. Always keep this valve closed (OFF) when the generator is not in use.

Power Load Planning & Management

NEVER exceed the rated wattage capacity of your generator.

WARNING

OVERLOADING may cause SERIOUS DAMAGE to the generator and attached electrical devices, and may result in fire.

Your generator MUST BE SIZED PROPERLY to provide both the running and starting (surge) wattage of the devices you will be powering. Before using your generator, determine the running and starting wattage requirements of all the electrical devices you will be powering simultaneously. The sum of the running and starting wattages of the devices being powered must not exceed the continuous output rating of your generator. (The continuous output rating of your generator is listed in the “Specifications” section of this manual.) Note that:

• Devices without electric motors such as light bulbs, radios, and televisions have the same

running and starting wattage.

• Devices with electric motors such as refrigerators, compressors, and hand tools typically

require a starting wattage that is 3 to 5 times greater than the running wattage.

The running and starting wattage requirements are often listed on a device’s nameplate. If wattage is not given on the device’s nameplate, the wattage may be calculated by multiplying the nameplate voltage by nameplate amperage, Watts = Volts X Amps.

Example conversion to watts:

120 Volts X 5 Amps = 600 Watts

If only the running voltage is given on the nameplate for a device with an electric motor, the starting wattage can be approximated to be three to five times the running wattage.

Estimates for the running wattage requirements for common devices are listed in Table 1 below. Guidance for starting wattages is provided in the table’s footnotes.

Table 1

Device

Air conditioner (12.000 BTU) 1700 (a,b) Jet pump 800 (a) Battery charger (20 Amp) 500 Lawn mower 1200 Belt sander (3”) 1000 Light bulb (100 Watt) 100 Chain saw 1200 Microwave oven 700 Circular saw (6½”) 2000 (a,b) Milk cooler 1100 (a) Coffee maker 1800 (a,b) Oil burner on furnace 300 Compressor (1 HP) 1400 (a,b) Oil-fired space heater (140,000 Btu) 400 Compressor (3/4 HP) 1800 (a) Oil-fired space heater (85,000 Btu) 225 Compressor (1/2 HP) 1400 (a) Oil-fired space heater (30,000 Btu) 150 Curling iron 700 Oven 4500 Dishwasher 1200 Paint sprayer, Airless (1/3 HP) 600 (a) Edge trimmer 500 Paint sprayer, Airless (handheld) 150 Electric nail gun 1200 Radio 200 Electric range (1 element) 1500 Refrigerator 600 (b) Electric skillet 1250 Slow cooker 200

Running

Watts Device

Running

Watts

Power Load Planning & Management (cont’d)

Device

Furnace fan (1/3 HP) 1200 (a) Submersible pump (1-1/2 HP) 2800 (a) Freezer 800 (b) Submersible pump (1 HP) 2000 (a) Hair dryer 1200 Submersible pump (1/2 HP) 1500 (a) Hand drill (1”) 1100 Sump pump 600 (a) Hand drill (1/2”) 875 Table saw 2000 (a) Hand drill (3/8”) 500 Television 500 Hand drill (1/4”) 250 Toaster 1000 Hedge trimmer 450 Vacuum cleaner 250 Home computer 150 VCR 70 Impact wrench 500 Water Heater 3000 Weed trimmer 500

Running

Watts Device

Running

Watts

(a) Hard-starting motors require 3-5 times the rated running watts (b) For extremely hard to start loads such as air conditioners and air compressors, consult the

equipment dealer to determine maximum wattage

To calculate the running and starting wattage requirements for the devices you will be powering, follow these steps:

1. Make a list of all electrical devices you will be powering at the same time with the generator.

2. List the greater of the running or starting wattage next to each device as obtained from the

devices’ nameplate or Table 1. If only the running wattage for a device with an electric motor is known, the starting wattage can be estimated to be at least 3 times the running wattage.

3. Add the wattages for all devices on your list. This total must be lower than the continuous

output rating of your generator.

Example:

Device to be Powered

Starting/Running Wattage

Greater of

Light Bulb 75 W Refrigerator – 18 Cu. Ft. 1600 W Microwave 700 W Window AC 1800 W Sump pump (1/3 hp) 2100 W

Total 6275W

In this example, the generator must have a continuous output of at least 6275 W in order to power all of the devices simultaneously.

STAGGERING LOADS

You can increase the number of devices your generator can power by staggering the load on the generator. For example, you could alternately power your refrigerator and air conditioner for limited periods of time -- powering only one of the devices at a time and never powering both at the same time.

Installation / Initial Set-Up

There are a number of important steps required to set up your generator for initial use. These steps are:

Steps for Installation / Initial Set-Up

1. Unpacking & delivery inspection.

2. Planning the power load to stay within the generator’s rated

capacity.

3. Getting gas hook-ups installed if natural gas or LP gas will be used as

a fuel source.

4. Setting up generator for the type of power generation you need: a. portable power source, or

b. connected to a building as a back-up power source.

5. Selecting a site for using the generator.

6. Grounding.

7. Battery installation (electric start models only).

Each of these steps is discussed in detail below:

1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection

You should inspect the generator immediately after you receive delivery.

See the “Machine Component Identification” section of this manual for a

• If you have missing components, contact Product Support at 1-800-270-0810.

• If you have damaged components, contact the freight company that delivered the unit and file a

Plan your power load so that you do not exceed the generator’s rated capacity.

See the “Power Load Planning & Management” section of this manual to review how to plan and manage power loads for the generator.

diagram of the generator and its components.

claim.

2. Planning the Power Load

Installation / Initial Set-Up

3. Gas Hook-up Installation for Natural Gas or LPG (if needed)

WARNING:

If you choose to operate the generator on NG or LPG, you must have the fuel line system installed by a certified gas technician.

Specific requirements for each type of hook-up are given below:

Natural Gas (NG) Hook-up

Contact your gas utility company for installation of a natural gas hookup for the generator.

WARNING:

Natural gas is a highly explosive gas. All natural gas hook-ups must be completed by trained personnel from your natural gas utility company and inspected as required by your local building code.

♦ This product is designed to operate on NG at a gas pressure range of 4 to

6 ounces per square inch (7”-11” of water column) and requires a minimum NG flow rate of 3.25 CFM.

♦ The standard gas pressure normally delivered to your building by your

utility company may be higher or lower than the required 4-6 ounces per square inch (7”-11” of water column):

o If your standard delivery pressure exceeds 4-6 ounces per square

inch (7”-11” water column), you will need a pressure-reducing regulator installed. Excessive gas pressure will permanently damage this product and void the warranty if the generator is not installed correctly with a pressure-reducing regulator as needed.

Note: The regulator supplied with this product is NOT a

o If your standard delivery pressure is lower than 4-6 ounces per

square inch (7”-11” water column), you will need changes to your natural gas service to provide elevated delivery pressure. In addition you will need to have a pressure-reducing devices installed for your other natural gas appliances.

Propane (LPG) Hook-up

Contact your local propane supplier to install a propane fuel system for the generator.

WARNING:

LPG is a highly explosive gas. A qualified propane technician must make the valve and hose connection between the propane tank and generator in accordance with all local regulations and electrical codes. All LPG hook-ups should be completed by trained personnel from propane supplier and inspected as required by your local building code.

pressure-reducing regulator, but one can be supplied and installed by your gas utility technician at the time of fuel system hook-up.

Installation / Initial Set-Up

♦ This product is designed to operate at an LPG gas pressure range of 7” to

11” of water column and requires a minimum LPG gas flow rate of 9.33 lb/hr, 2.2 Gal/hr, or 201,718 BTU/hr.

Note: All gas cylinders produce gas pressure in excess of 11” water

column. Introduction of gas pressure into the generator in excess of 11” water column will permanently damage this product and void the warranty. You will need a pressure-

♦ You will need a minimum 100 lb. LPG gas tank to operate the generator.

This generator will not work with 20-lb gas cylinders used in gas grills and recreational equipment, or 40-lb gas cylinders used in forklifts and tractors. These smaller gas tanks do not have a sufficient vaporization rate to run the generator.

Some installations may require tanks even larger than 100-lb as a result of low surrounding air temperature and other appliances drawing fuel from the same tank.

reducing regulator installed as part of your LP gas fuel system.

Installation / Initial Set-Up

4. Set-up either as a BUILDING BACK-UP or PORTABLE Power Source

This generator is designed to provide up to 13,000W of electrical power. It can supply electricity in two ways:

1. As a back up, standby power source for a building. For this application, you must arrange

for a licensed electrician to connect the generator to your building’s electrical system via the installation of an UL-approved transfer switch. The transfer switch must be installed in accordance with building electrical code and guidelines supplied by your power company.

2. As a portable power source. You can plug appliances or tools directly into the generator’s

electrical outlets.

Specific requirements for each are given below.

Note: Regardless of whether you use your generator as a back-up power source connected to a

building or as a portable power source, you must not overload the generator. Overloading may cause serious damage to the generator and attached electrical devices.

Using as a Back-up Power Source for a Building

Contact a licensed electrician to install an UL-approved transfer switch if

you want to use your generator as a back-up power source for a building. What does a transfer switch do? It:

a) Safely connects the generator to your building’s electrical system by

isolating your generator from your utility company’s power lines, AND

b) Connects your generator to a critical subset of your building’s circuits

that are needed for emergency power needs.

If your generator will be connected to your building’s electrical system, it MUST ALWAYS be isolated from the utility power grid with a UL-approved transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician in compliance with all applicable building and electrical codes, and in accordance with guidelines supplied by your power company.

DANGER:

A transfer switch must be installed in order to isolate your generator from the utility power grid. If your generator is NOT properly isolated from the utility system, serious hazards will arise:

When your generator is running, it’s output will back feed into

♦

the utility power line and transformer that are normally used to provide you with power. The transformer will step up the current to the 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.

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