Generac Power Systems OG 2697 manual Vented Batteries

Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released electrolyte can be toxic and harmful to the skin and eyes.

The battery represents a risk of high short-circuit current. When working on the battery, always remove watches, rings or other metal objects, and only use tools that have insulated handles.

Vented Batteries

The electrolyte is a diluted sulfuric acid that is harmful to the skin and eyes. It is electrically conductive and corrosive. The following procedures are to be observed:

Wear full eye protection and protective clothing.

If electrolyte contacts the skin, wash it off immediately with water.

If electrolyte contacts the eyes, flush thoroughly and immediately with water and seek medical attention.

Spilled electrolyte is to be washed down with an acid-neutralizing agent. A common practice is to use a solution of one pound

(500 grams) bicarbonate of soda to one gallon (4 liters) of water. The bicarbonate of soda solution is to be added until the evidence

of reaction (foaming) has ceased. The resulting liquid is to be flushed with water and the area dried.

Lead acid batteries present a risk of fire because they generate hydrogen gas. The following procedures are to be followed:

DO NOT SMOKE when near batteries.

DO NOT cause flame or spark in battery area.

Discharge static electricity from body before touching batteries by first touching a grounded metal surface.

Servicing of batteries is to be performed or supervised by personnel knowledgeable of batteries and the required precautions. Keep unauthorized personnel away from batteries.

For recommended batteries, see the Installation Guide. All batteries must be at

100 percent state of charge before they are installed on the generator.

When using maintenance-free batteries, it is not necessary to check the specific gravity or electrolyte level. Have these procedures performed at the intervals specified in the “Maintenance” section in the Owner’s Manual. A negative ground system is used. Battery connections are shown on the wiring diagrams. Make sure all batteries are correctly connected and terminals are tight. Observe battery polarity when connecting batteries to the generator set.

NOTE:

Damage could result if the battery connections are made in reverse.