Generac 5940R User Manual

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2.3  CORD SETS AND CONNECTION PLUGS
2.3.1  120 VAC, 20 AMP, DUPLEX RECEPTACLE
This is a 120 Volt outlet protected against overload by a 20 Amp 
push-to-reset circuit breaker (Figure 5). Use each socket to power 
120 Volt AC, single phase, 60 Hz electrical loads requiring up to a 
combined 2400 watts (2.4 kW) or 20 Amps of current. Use only 
high quality, well-insulated, 3-wire grounded cord sets rated for 
125 Volts at 20 Amps (or greater).
Keep extension cords as short as possible, preferably less than 
15 feet long, to prevent voltage drop and possible overheating of 
wires.
Figure 5 - 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, Duplex Receptacle
2.3.2  120/240 VAC, 30 AMP RECEPTACLE
Use a NEMA L14-30 plug with this receptacle (rotate to lock/
unlock). Connect a suitable 4-wire grounded cord set to the plug 
and to the desired load. The cord set should be rated for 250 Volts 
AC at 30 Amps (or greater) (Figure 6).
Figure 6 - 120/240 VAC, 30 Amp Receptacle
Use this receptacle to operate 120 Volt AC, 60 Hz, single phase 
loads requiring up to 3600 watts (3.6 kW) of power at 30 Amps 
or 240 Volt AC, 60 Hz, single phase loads requiring up to 7200 
watts (7.2 kW) of power at 30 Amps. The outlet is protected by 
two 25 Amp (5.0/5.5kW) or two 30 Amp (6.5kW) push-to-reset 
circuit breakers.
2.4  HOW TO USE THE GENERATOR
If there are any problems operating the generator, please call the 
generator helpline at 1-888-436-3722.
2.4.1  GROUNDING THE GENERATOR
The National Electrical Code requires that the frame and 
external electrically conductive parts of this generator be 
properly connected to an approved earth ground (Figure 7)
Local electrical codes may also require proper grounding of the 
unit. For that purpose, connecting a No. 10 AWG (American Wire 
Gauge) stranded copper wire to the grounding lug and to an 
earth-driven copper or brass grounding rod (electrode) provides 
adequate protection against electrical shock. However, local codes 
may vary widely. Consult with a local electrician for grounding 
requirements in the area.
Figure 7 - Grounding the Generator
Proper grounding of the generator will help prevent electrical 
shock in the event of a ground fault condition in the generator 
or in connected electrical devices. Proper grounding also helps 
dissipate static electricity, which often builds up in ungrounded 
devices.
2.4.2  CONNECTING ELECTRICAL LOADS
DO NOT connect 240 Volt loads to 120 Volt receptacles. DO NOT 
connect 3-phase loads to the generator. DO NOT connect 50 Hz 
loads to the generator.
Let engine stabilize and warm up for a few minutes after 
• 
starting.
Plug in and turn on the desired 120 or 240 Volt AC, single 
• 
phase, 60 Hz electrical loads.
Add up the rated watts (or amps) of all loads to be connected 
• 
at one time. This total should not be greater than (a) the rated 
wattage/amperage capacity of the generator or (b) circuit 
breaker rating of the receptacle supplying the power. See "Don't 
Overload the Generator".
Operation