INSTALLATION
7
Fuel Factors
An important consideration affecting the entire installation is
the type of fuel used by your Home Generator System. The
system was factory tested and adjusted using natural gas as
a fuel. Liquid propane (LP) may also be used as a fuel (see
the Installation Manual).
Although there are specific factors that are inherent to each of
these fuels, your location and the duration of possible utility
interruptions should guide your selection of fuel type. For
urban installations, Natural Gas (if available) should be your
fuel of choice. For remote installations, a Liquefied Petroleum
(LP) tank might better meet your needs.
For proper engine function, the following fuel guidelines are
recommended:
• Use clean, dry fuel, free of moisture or any particulate
material. Using fuels outside the following recommended
values may cause performance problems.
In engines set up to run on propane (LP) gas,
commercial grade HD5 propane with a minimum fuel
energy of 2500 BTUs/ft3with maximum propylene
content of 5% and butane and heavier gas content of
2.5% and minimum propane content of 90%.
Power Decrease at High Altitude or High Temperature
Air density is less at high altitudes, resulting in less available
engine power. Specifically, engine power will decrease 3.5%
for each 1,000 feet (300 meters) above sea level and 1% for
each 10° F (5.6°C) above 77°F (25°C). Make sure you and
your installer consider these factors when determining total
generator load.
Generator Location
The actual physical location of your HGS has a direct affect on:
1. The amount of plumbing required to fuel your generator.
2. The amount of wiring required to control and connect
your generator.
NOTE:Specific location guidelines are discussed in the
Installation Manual. Acquaint yourself with that information
and confer with your installer. Be sure to ask how your site
might affect installation costs and compliance with local
codes and standards.
Home Generator System Location
Before installing generator, consult with homeowner and convey
the following guidelines which may affect the desired location.
Generator Clearances
Install generator outdoors in an area which will not accumulate
deadly exhaust gas. DO NOT install generator where exhaust
gas could accumulate and enter inside or be drawn into a
potentially occupied building. Ensure exhaust gas is kept away
from any windows, doors, ventilation intakes or other
openings that can allow exhaust gas to collect in a confined
area (Figure 1). Prevailing winds and air currents should be
taken into consideration when positioning generator.
WARNING
Propane and Natural Gas are extremely
flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or
death.
• The Home Generator System is equipped with an automatic
safety gas “fuel shut-off” valve.
• DO NOT operate the equipment if the “fuel shut-off” valve is
missing or inoperative.
Figure 1 — Home Generator System Location
Exhaust Port
WARNING
Running engine gives off carbon monoxide, an
odorless, colorless, poison gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide can cause headache,
fatigue, dizziness, vomiting, confusion, seizures,
nausea, fainting or death.
• Operate generator ONLY outdoors.
• Install a battery operated carbon monoxide alarm near the
bedrooms.
• Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes, or other openings.
WARNING
Exhaust heat/gases can ignite combustibles or
structures causing a fire.
• DO NOT install the generator closer than 5 feet (1.5m) from
any combustibles or structures with combustible walls having
a fire resistance rating of less than 1 hour.
• Keep at least 3 ft. (91 cm) clearance on all sides of generator
including overhead.