GENERATOR APPLICATION
WHAT IS A GENERATOR
A generator is basically a prime mover, typically a
gasoline or diesel engine, coupled to an alternator to
produce electricity. It is very useful as a substitute power
source during power outages or as the primary source in
remote
locations
where
Generators are essential for people such as contractors
or farmers who are always in need of portable power.
They are also very convenient for recreational use.
SELECTING A GENERATOR
Selecting the proper generator is important. A generator
that is too small for your application will not run all of the
equipment needed. A generator that is too large will cost
more and if never used to its potential the money is
wasted. The correct size generator is determined by
totaling the wattage requirements of the items to be used
simultaneously, determine additional starting wattage
requirements and total these numbers. Select a generator
with a continuous rating that exceeds this by about 20%
to allow for expansion. See the table in the section titled
"Generator Set Overload" for some wattage guidelines of
common equipment.
RATED vs. SURGE WATTS
Rated, or continuous, watts are the watts an item needs
as it is running.
Surge, or maximum, watts are the watts an item needs to
start. This is typically 2-4 times the rated watts.
This
information
is
manufacturer's nameplate. If watts are not provided, it
can be calculated using the formula: Watts=Amps x Volts.
EXTENSION CORDS
An extension cord should always be in good condition
with no damage to the wires or sheathing. Never run an
extension cord through water. The correct wire size for an
extension cord can be determined from the table that
follows.
Continuous
Minimum Cord Gauge (AWG)
Load
Amps
0-50 Feet
20
12
25
12
30
10
35
10
40
8
50
6
power
is
not
available.
typically
provided
on
50-100 Feet
100-150
Feet
10
8
10
6
8
6
8
4
6
2
4
2
LOADING YOUR GENERATOR SET
With reference to the Receptacle details section, please
review the power receptacles fitted to your generator. The
circuit breaker rating and the generator rating drive the
actual load that may be pulled from each receptacle. The
ratings shown in the table are the maximum available from
each receptacle. DO NOT EXCEED THE INDIVIDUAL
RECEPTACLE RATINGS AS SHOWN IN THE TABLE
BELOW. DO NOT EXCEED THE TOTAL GENERATOR
RATING
SHOWN
SPECIFICATIONS. All generator units are equipped with
a thermal-magnetic main circuit breaker as well as a
"PUSH TO RESET" breaker on branch circuits.
AMPERAGE RATE TABLE
Model
NEMA 5-
20R
125V GFCI
S3100
20Amps
S5000
20Amps
S7500
20Amps
S10000 20Amps
S12000 20Amps
*With voltage selector in 120V mode.
ENGINE LIMITATIONS ON GENERATOR
Generator ratings assume 60F (20C) and Sea
Level. Operation of your generator at temperatures
above 60F (20C) or above Sea Level will result in
lower electrical output. Electrical output must be
derated 1% for each 10F above 60F and 3 ½ %
for each 1000 feet above mean sea level.
the
GENERATOR CLEANING
CAUTION:
GENERATOR AND ALLOW IT TO COOL
COMPLETELY
CLEANING OPERATIONS.
WARNING: DO NOT USE HIGH PRESSURE
WATER OR A GARDEN HOSE TO CLEAN
YOUR GENERATOR. WATER INTRODUCED
INTO THE GENERATOR CAN CAUSE ELECTRICAL
SHORTS, GENERATOR DAMAGE OR PERSONAL
INJURY.
Compressed air (max. 25 psi) may be used to blow
loose dirt and dust from your generator. DO NOT
DIRECT COMPRESSED AIR DIRECTLY INTO ANY
OPENING IN THE GENERATOR OR ENGINE.
Use a dampened cloth to wipe clean exterior
surfaces.
Use a soft bristle brush to clean/ loosen heavy dirt, oil
or grease deposits.
NEVER insert rags, tools or any device into the
generator or engine openings.
13
IN
TABLE
2
PERFORMANCE
NEMA L5-
NEMA L14-
30R
30R
125V
125/250V
Twistlock
Twistlock
25Amps
NA
30Amps*
20Amps
30Amps*
30Amps
NA
30Amps
NA
30Amps
PERFORMANCE
ALWAYS
SHUT
BEFORE
PERFORMING
English
NEMA 14-
50R
125/250V
NA
NA
NA
35Amps
45Amps
DOWN
THE