Generac 004451, 004582, 004451 ,004582 owner manual Introduction

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing this model of the GUARDIAN® product line by Generac Power Systems, Inc. This model is a compact, high performance, air-cooled, engine driven generator designed to supply electrical power to operate electrical loads where no utility power is available.

READ THIS MANUAL THOROUGHLY

If you do not understand any portion of this manual, contact your nearest GENERAC/GUARDIAN® Authorized Dealer for starting, operating and servicing procedures.

Throughout this publication, and on tags and decals affixed to the generator, DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and NOTE blocks are used to alert you to special instruction about a particular operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe them carefully. Their definitions are as follows:

------------- DANGER -------------

After this heading, you can read instructions that, if not strictly complied with, will result in personal injury or property damage.

------------- WARNING -------------

After this heading, you can read instructions that, if not strictly complied with, may result in personal injury or property damage.

------------- CAUTION -------------

After this heading, you can read instructions that, if not strictly complied with, could result in damage to equipment and/or property.

NOTE: After this heading, you can read explanatory statements that require special emphasis. These safety warnings cannot eliminate the hazards that they indicate. Common sense and strict compliance with the special instructions while performing the service are essential to preventing accidents.

Four commonly used safety symbols accompany the DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION blocks. The type of information each indicates follows:

This symbol points out important safety information that, if not followed, could endanger personal safety and/or property of you and others.

This symbol points out potential explosion hazard.

This symbol points out potential fire hazard.

This symbol points out potential electrical shock hazard.

The operator is responsible for proper and safe use of the equipment. We strongly recommend that the operator read this Owner’s Manual and thoroughly

understand all instructions before using this equipment. We also strongly recommend instructing other users to properly start and operate the unit. This prepares them if they need to operate the equipment in an emergency.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire and place the wire where it cannot contact the spark plug to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs to your generator.

•The generator produces dangerously high voltage that can cause extremely hazardous electrical shock. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals, etc. Never permit any unqualified person to operate or service the generator.

•Never handle any kind of electrical cord or device while standing in water, while barefoot or while hands or feet are wet. Dangerous electrical shock will result.

•The National Electric Code requires the frame and external electrically conductive parts of the generator be properly connected to an approved earth ground. Local electrical codes may also require proper grounding of the generator. Consult with a local electrician for grounding requirements in your area.

•Use a ground fault circuit interrupter in any damp or highly conductive area (such as metal decking or steel work).

•Do not use worn, bare, frayed or otherwise damaged electrical cord sets with the generator.

•Operate generator only on level surfaces and where it will not be exposed to excessive moisture, dirt, dust or corrosive vapors.

•Gasoline is highly FLAMMABLE and its vapors are EXPLOSIVE. Do not permit smoking, open flames, sparks or heat in the vicinity while handling gasoline. Avoid spilling gasoline on a hot engine. Comply with all laws regulating storage and handling of gasoline.

•Never add fuel while unit is running.

•Do not overfill the fuel tank. Always allow room for fuel expansion. If tank is overfilled, fuel can overflow onto a hot engine and cause FIRE or an EXPLOSION.

•Never store generator with fuel in tank where gasoline vapors might reach an open flame, spark or pilot light (as on a furnace, water heater or clothes dryer). FIRE or EXPLOSION may result.

•Generator exhaust gases contain DEADLY carbon monoxide gas.This dangerous gas, if breathed in sufficient concentrations, can cause unconsciousness or even death. Operate this equipment only in the open air where adequate ventilation is available.

•Allow at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides of generator or you could damage the unit. Never operate the unit inside any room or enclosure where the free flow of cooling air into and out of the unit might be obstructed. Review “Cold Weather Operation” on page 12.

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