OPERATION

Preparing for Operation

Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.

Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide. This is a poison you cannot see or smell.

NEVER use inside a home

Only use OUTSIDE and far

or garage, EVEN IF doors

away from windows, doors, and

and windows are open.

vents.

 

 

Before starting generator, complete the following preparation tasks:

‰Be sure generator is placed outdoors in a well ventilated area. See “Generator Location”.

‰Consult a licensed electrician or utility company if you will be using your generator for backup power. The generator must be connected to build- ing’s electrical system via a transfer switch. See “Using Generator for Backup Power” on page 11.

Before connecting to a building’s electrical system, consult utility company or qualified electrician.

Connecting to a building's electrical system with- out using a transfer switch can cause electrical current from generator to feed back into utility lines, resulting in death or serious injury to utility company workers or others who contact utility lines during a power outage.

‰Check/add engine oilSee “Engine Oil” on

page 20. For initial start-up, follow instructions on oil container provided with generator.

‰Check/add fuel*—See “Adding Fuel” on page 22.

‰Be sure ground terminal is properly connected to earth ground—See“Grounding the Generator” on page 10.

‰Check extension cords—be sure cords are:

„In good condition.

„Rated for outdoor use and match amp and voltage ratings of generator outlet.

„Equipped with proper plugs that contain grounding blades.

Generator Location

When deciding on the location to place your generator, keep in mind the following safety rules:

Depressed areas such as construction foundations, pools, or any low-lying areas, can cause carbon monoxide to accumulate. Inhalation of carbon monoxide can kill you in minutes.

NEVER use generator inside homes, garages, crawl spaces, sheds, or similar enclosed spaces. Use generator only outdoors and far away from windows, doors, and vents.

If generator is placed on an uneven or flexible sur- face, generator could tilt or overturn, causing fuel to spill from gas tank. Spilled fuel could ignite.

Place generator on firm, level surface and avoid loose sand or snow. If generator is tilted or over- turned, fuel spillage may result. Also, if generator is overturned or sinks into a soft surface, sand, dirt, or water may enter generator.

NEVER operate generator in rain or snow, or when the generator is set on wet surface.

Starting Generator

Before starting generator, be sure to thoroughly read all information provided in this Owner’s Manual.

It is very important to maintain proper level of engine oil to keep engine in good running condition.

• Check engine oil level prior to each use.

Starting generator with appliances connected can cause permanent damage to appliances.

NEVER start generator with electrical appliances plugged in and turned on.

To start generator:

1.Be sure generator is placed outside, in well-ventilated area.

*You must add fuel before using the generator for the first time. See “Adding Fuel” on page 22.

HW4000 Portable Generator Owner’s Manual

www.honeywellgenerators.com

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