Generac Power Systems 6103 EcoGen Instruction sheet

Installation Guidelines
For
Automatic Standby Generator
15 kW EcoGen™
This manual should remain with the unit.
This manual must be used in conjunction
with the appropriate owner’s manual.
*NOT INTENDED FOR USE IN CRITICAL
LIFE SUPPORT APPLICATIONS.
*ONLY QUALIFIED ELECTRICIANS OR
CONTRACTORS SHOULD ATTEMPT
INSTALLATION!
*DEADLY EXHAUST FUMES! OUTDOOR
INSTALLATION ONLY!
To locate in Spanish, go to http://www.generac.com/service‐support/product‐support‐lookup
To locate in French, go to http://www.generac.com/service‐support/product‐support‐lookup

ii Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
WARNING!
California Proposition 65
Engine exhaust and some of its constituents are known to the state of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, and other reproductive harm.
WARNING!
California Proposition 65
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, and other reproductive harm.

Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators iii
Section 1
1.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 1
1.1.1 Read This Manual Thoroughly ......................................................................................................1
1.1.2 How to Obtain Service ..................................................................................................................2
1.2 Safety Rules ..........................................................................................................................2
1.2.1 General Hazards ...........................................................................................................................3
1.2.2 Electrical Hazards .........................................................................................................................3
1.2.3 Fire Hazards .................................................................................................................................3
1.2.4 Explosion Hazards ........................................................................................................................4
1.3 General Rules .......................................................................................................................4
1.3.1 Before You Begin ..........................................................................................................................4
1.3.2 Standards Index ............................................................................................................................4
Section 2 Unpacking and Inspection
2.1 General ..................................................................................................................................7
2.2 Required Tools .....................................................................................................................7
2.3 Unpacking .............................................................................................................................8
2.4 Parts Shipped Loose .........................................................................................................11
Section 3 Site Selection and Preparation
3.1 Site Selection ......................................................................................................................13
3.1.1 Installation Guidelines .................................................................................................................14
3.2 Site Preparation ..................................................................................................................15
3.2.1 Material Sufficient for Level Installation ......................................................................................16
Section 4 Generator Placement
4.1 Generator ............................................................................................................................17
4.2 Fascia Skirt Installation (If Applicable) ............................................................................18
Section 5 Fuel Conversion/Gas Connections
5.1 Fuel Conversion .................................................................................................................19
5.2 Fuel Requirements and Recommendations ....................................................................19
5.3 Fuel Consumption ..............................................................................................................20
5.4 Fuel Line Sizing .................................................................................................................. 20
5.4.1 Natural Gas Pipe Sizing ..............................................................................................................21
5.4.2 LP Vapor Pipe Sizing ..................................................................................................................21
5.4.3 Gas Installation Summary ...........................................................................................................22
5.5 Installing and Connecting Gas Lines ...............................................................................22
Table of Contents

Table of Contents
iv Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
Section 6 Electrical Connections
6.1 Generator Connections ......................................................................................................27
6.2 Control Wiring .....................................................................................................................27
6.3 Main AC Wiring ...................................................................................................................29
6.4 Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) Cooling Fans .........................................................29
6.5 Battery Requirements ........................................................................................................30
6.6 Battery Installation .............................................................................................................30
Section 7 Operation
7.1 Control Pad .........................................................................................................................31
7.2 Auto/Manual/Off ..................................................................................................................32
7.3 Menu Navigation .................................................................................................................33
7.4 Change Time and Date .......................................................................................................33
7.5 Programmable Timers ........................................................................................................33
7.5.1 Dealer Programmable ................................................................................................................33
7.6 USB Port for Firmware Updates ........................................................................................33
7.7 Before Initial Start-Up .........................................................................................................34
7.7.1 Installation Wizard ......................................................................................................................34
7.7.2 Before Starting ............................................................................................................................36
7.8 Electrical Checks ................................................................................................................36
7.9 Generator Tests Under Load .............................................................................................36
7.10 Checking Automatic Operation .......................................................................................37
7.11 Installation Summary .......................................................................................................37
Section 8 Troubleshooting
8.1 Engine Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................39
8.2 Generator Troubleshooting ...............................................................................................40
8.3 G-Flex™ Troubleshooting .................................................................................................42
Section 9 Accessories
9.1 Descriptions ........................................................................................................................45
Section 10 Installation Diagrams
10.1 Installation Drawing .........................................................................................................47
10.2 Off Grid Mode Application Schematic ............................................................................48
10.3 Oil Make Up System Schematic ......................................................................................49

Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators 1
Section 1
Safety and General Information
1.1 — Introduction
Thank you for purchasing this compact, high performance, variable speed, air-cooled, engine-driven stationary auto-
matic standby generator set. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information and instructions in this manual
are both accurate and complete at the time of release. However, the manufacturer reserves the right to change, alter,
or otherwise improve this product at any time without prior notice.
In off-grid applications as a part of an alternative energy system, the generator starts when the inverter/battery charger
detects the battery pack voltage has dropped below a preset level. The generator powers the inverter, and once the
voltage level of the battery rises to an acceptable level, the generator is shut down. Another off-grid application would
be for use in remote locations such as for pumping water for a village or campground, or for livestock.
The unit is factory installed in an all-weather metal enclosure and is intended for outdoor installation only. The gen-
erator can be operated using either natural gas (NG) or vapor withdrawn liquid propane (LP).
NOTE: When properly sized, this generator is suitable for supplying typical residential loads such as Induc-
tion Motors (sump pumps, refrigerators, air conditioners, furnaces, etc.), Electronic Components (computer,
monitor, TV, etc.), Lighting Loads and Microwaves, or loads less than 10 kW or 2 hp.
1.1.1— Read This Manual Thoroughly
The operator is responsible for proper and safe use of this equipment. The manufacturer strongly recommends that the
operator read and thoroughly understand the instructions and contents of this owner’s manual before attempting to use
the equipment. If any portion of this publication is not understood, contact the nearest Authorized Service 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 personnel to special instructions about a particular operation that may be hazardous if
performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe them carefully. Their definitions are as follows:
Indicates a hazardous situation or action that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious
injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation or action that, if not avoided, could result in death or seri-
ous injury.
Indicates a hazardous situation or action that, if not avoided, could result in minor or mod-
erate injury.
NOTE: Notes provide additional information important to a procedure or component.
These safety warnings cannot eliminate the hazards they indicate. Observing safety precautions and strict compliance
with the special instructions while performing the action or service are essential to preventing accidents.
Four commonly used safety symbols accompany DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION boxes and the type of informa-
tion each indicates:

2Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
This symbol points out important safety information that, if not followed, could
endanger personnel and/or property.
This symbol represents the potential for an Explosion Hazard.
This symbol represents the potential for a Fire Hazard.
This symbol represents the potential for an Electrical Shock Hazard.
The operator is responsible for proper and safe use of the equipment. The manufacturer strongly recommends that if
the operator is also the owner, to read their Owner’s Manual and thoroughly understand all instructions before using
this equipment. The manufacturer also strongly recommends instructing other users to properly start and operate the
unit. This prepares them if they need to operate the equipment in an emergency.
1.1.2— How to Obtain Service
When the generator requires servicing or repairs, contact a Dealer for assistance. Service technicians are factory-
trained and are capable of handling all service needs. For assistance locating a dealer, call our dealer locater at 800-
333-1322 or visit us at www.generac.com/dealer-locator.
When contacting a Dealer about parts and service, always supply the complete model number and serial number of the
unit as given on its data decal, which is located on the generator. See section “The Generator” for decal location.
Model No. _____________________ Serial No. __________________________
1.2 — Safety Rules
Save These Instructions – The manufacturer suggests that these rules for safe operation be copied
and posted near the unit’s installation site. Safety should be stressed to all operators and potential
operators of this equipment.
Study these SAFETY RULES carefully before installing, operating or servicing this equipment. Become familiar with
this Installation Manual and with the unit. The generator can operate safely, efficiently and reliably only if it is properly
installed, operated and maintained. Many accidents are caused by failing to follow simple and fundamental rules or pre-
cautions.
The manufacturer cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a hazard. The warnings in this
manual and on tags and decals affixed to the unit are, therefore, not all-inclusive. If using a procedure, work method or
operating technique the manufacturer does not specifically recommend, ensure that it is safe for others. Also, make
sure the procedure, work method or operating technique utilized does not render the generator unsafe.
Despite the safe design of this generator, operating this equipment imprudently, neglecting its mainte-
nance or being careless can cause possible injury or death. Permit only responsible and capable per-
sons to install, operate and maintain this equipment.
Potentially lethal voltages are generated by these machines. Ensure all steps are taken to render the
machine safe before attempting to work on the generator.
Parts of the generator are rotating and/or hot during operation. Exercise care near running generators.
Installation must always comply with applicable codes, standards, laws and regulations.
A running generator gives off carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless poison gas. Breathing in carbon
monoxide can cause headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, fainting, seizures or
death.
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*
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Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators 3
1.2.1— General Hazards
•For safety reasons, the manufacturer recommends that this equipment be installed by an independent Sales or
Service Dealer or other competent, qualified electrician or installation technician who is familiar with applicable
codes, standards and regulations. The operator also must comply with all such codes, standards and regula-
tions. Only an Independent Authorized Service Dealer is allowed to perform warranty service on this unit.
•The engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be DEADLY. This dangerous gas, if breathed in
sufficient concentrations, can cause unconsciousness or even death. Do NOT alter or add to the exhaust system
or do anything that might render the system unsafe or in noncompliance with applicable codes and standards.
•Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide alarm indoors, according to manufacturer’s instructions/recommen-
dations.
•Adequate, unobstructed flow of cooling and ventilating air is critical to correct generator operation. Do not alter
the installation or permit even partial blockage of ventilation provisions, as this can seriously affect safe operation
of the generator. The generator MUST be installed and operated outdoors only.
•Keep hands, feet, clothing, etc., away from drive belts, fans, and other moving or hot parts. Never remove any
drive belt or fan guard while the unit is operating.
•When working on this equipment, remain alert at all times. Never work on the equipment when physically or men-
tally fatigued.
•Inspect the generator regularly, and contact the nearest Dealer for parts needing repair or replacement.
•Before performing any maintenance on the generator, disconnect its battery cables to prevent accidental start up.
Disconnect the cable from the battery post indicated by a NEGATIVE, NEG or (–) first, then remove the POSI-
TIVE, POS or (+) cable. When reconnecting the cables, connect the POSITIVE cable first, the NEGATIVE cable
last.
•Never use the generator or any of its parts as a step. Stepping on the unit can stress and break parts, and may
result in dangerous operating conditions from leaking exhaust gases, fuel leakage, oil leakage, etc.
1.2.2— Electrical Hazards
•All generators covered by this manual produce dangerous electrical voltages and can cause fatal electrical
shock. Avoid contact with bare wires, terminals, connections, etc., while the unit is running. Ensure all appropri-
ate covers, guards and barriers are in place, secured and/or locked before operating the generator. If work must
be done around an operating unit, stand on an insulated, dry surface to reduce shock hazard.
•Do not handle any kind of electrical device while standing in water, while barefoot, or while hands or feet are wet.
DANGEROUS ELECTRICAL SHOCK MAY RESULT.
•The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires the frame and external electrically conductive parts of the generator
to be connected to an approved earth ground. Local electrical codes also may require proper grounding of the
generator electrical system.
•After installing this home standby electrical system, the generator may crank and start at any time without warn-
ing. When this occurs, load circuits are transferred to the STANDBY (generator) power source. To prevent possi-
ble injury if such a start and transfer occur, always set the generator to the OFF mode, remove the 7.5A fuse
adjacent to the generator control pad, and disconnect the battery before working on equipment.
•In case of accident caused by electric shock, immediately shut down the source of electrical power. If this is not
possible, attempt to free the victim from the live conductor. AVOID DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE VICTIM. Use
a nonconducting implement, such as a dry rope or board, to free the victim from the live conductor. If the victim is
unconscious, apply first aid and get immediate medical help.
•Never wear jewelry when working on this equipment. Jewelry can conduct electricity resulting in electric shock,
or may get caught in moving components causing injury.
1.2.3— Fire Hazards
•For fire safety, the generator must be installed and maintained properly. Installation must always comply with
applicable codes, standards, laws and regulations. Adhere strictly to local, state and national electrical and build-

4Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
ing codes. Comply with regulations the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established.
Also, ensure that the generator is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and recommenda-
tions. Following proper installation, do nothing that might alter a safe installation and render the unit in noncom-
pliance with the aforementioned codes, standards, laws and regulations.
•Keep a fire extinguisher near the generator at all times. Extinguishers rated “ABC” by the National Fire Protection
Association are appropriate for use on the standby electric system. Keep the extinguisher properly charged and
be familiar with its use. Consult the local fire department with any questions pertaining to fire extinguishers.
1.2.4— Explosion Hazards
•Do not smoke around the generator. Wipe up any fuel or oil spills immediately. Ensure that no combustible mate-
rials are left in the generator compartment, or on or near the generator, as FIRE or EXPLOSION may result.
Keep the area surrounding the generator clean and free from debris.
•Gaseous fluids such as natural gas and liquid propane (LP) gas are extremely EXPLOSIVE. Install the fuel sup-
ply system according to applicable fuel-gas codes. Before placing the home standby electric system into service,
fuel system lines must be properly purged and leak tested according to applicable code. After installation, inspect
the fuel system periodically for leaks. No leakage is permitted.
1.3 — General Rules
•Follow all safety precautions in the Owner’s Manual, Installation Guidelines manual and other documents
included with your equipment.
•Refer to NFPA 70E for safety equipment required when working with a live system.
•Never energize a new system without opening all disconnects and breakers.
•Always consult your local code for additional requirements for the area in which the unit is being installed.
Improper installation can result in personal injury and damage to the generator. It may also result in
the warranty being suspended or voided. All the instructions listed below must be followed including
location clearances and pipe sizes.
1.3.1— Before You Begin
•Contact the local inspector or City Hall to be aware of all federal, state and local codes that could impact the
installation. Secure all required permits before starting the job.
•Carefully read and follow all of the procedures and safety precautions detailed in the installation guide. If any por-
tion of the installation manual, technical manual or other factory-supplied documents is not completely under-
stood, contact a dealer for assistance.
•Fully comply with all relevant NEC, NFPA and OSHA standards as well as all federal, state and local building and
electric codes. As with any generator, this unit must be installed in accordance with current NFPA 37 and NFPA
70 standards as well as any other federal, state, and local codes for minimum distances from other structures.
•Verify the capacity of the natural gas meter or the LP tank in regards to providing sufficient fuel for both the gen-
erator and other household and operating appliances.
1.3.2— Standards Index
Applicable national, state or local laws, codes and regulations pertaining to the installation of engine-generator power
systems must be strictly complied with. Always use the current acceptable version or edition of the applicable code or
standard which applies to your jurisdiction. In the absence of pertinent local laws and standards, the following pub-
lished booklets may be used as a guide (these apply to localities which recognize NFPA and IBC):
1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70: The NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE (NEC) *
2. NFPA 10: Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers *
3. NFPA 30: Flammable And Combustible Liquids Code *
4. NFPA 37: Standard for Stationary Combustion Engines And Gas Turbines *
*

Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators 5
5. NFPA 54: National Fuel Gas Code *
6. NFPA 58: Standard for Storage And Handling Of Liquefied Petroleum Gases *
7. NFPA 68: Standard On Explosion Protection By Deflagration Venting *
8. NFPA 70E: Standard For Electrical Safety In The Workplace *
9. NFPA 211: Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances *
10. NFPA 220: Standard on Types of Building Construction *
11. NFPA 5000: Building Code *
12. International Building Code **
13. Agricultural Wiring Handbook ***
14. Article X, NATIONAL BUILDING CODE, available from the American Insurance Association, 85 John Street,
New York, N.Y. 10038.
15. ASAE EP-364.2 Installation and Maintenance of Farm Standby Electric Power ****
This list is not all-inclusive. Check with the Authority Having Local Jurisdiction (AHJ) for any local codes or standards
which may be applicable to your jurisdiction. The above listed standards are available from the following internet
sources:
* www.nfpa.org
** www.iccsafe.org
*** www.rerc.org Rural Electricity Resource Council P.O. Box 309 Wilmington, OH 45177-0309
**** www.asabe.org American Society of Agricultural & Biological Engineers 2950 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 9085
The installation of this product must comply strictly with applicable codes, standards and regulations.
This product can be installed by the homeowner. However, if you are uncomfortable with the skills or
tools required, have a qualified electrician or contractor perform the installation.
*

6Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
This page intentionally left blank.

Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators 7
Section 2 Unpacking and Inspection
2.1 — General
NOTE: After unpacking, carefully inspect the contents for damage. Thoroughly inspect the unit immediately
upon delivery to determine if any damage occurred in transit. Any claims for shipping damage need to be filed
with the freight carrier as soon as possible. This is especially important if the generator is not be installed for
a period of time. Any shipping damage, whether obvious or not readily apparent, is not covered by the war-
ranty.
•The standby generator set is ready for installation with a factory supplied and pre-mounted base pad and has a
weather protective enclosure that is intended for outdoor installation only.
•If any loss or damage is noted at time of delivery, have the person making the delivery note all damage on the
freight bill or affix their signature under the consignor’s memo of loss or damage.
•If a loss or damage is noted after delivery, separate the damaged materials and contact the carrier for claim pro-
cedures.
•“Concealed damage” is understood to mean damage to the contents of a package that is not evident at the time
of delivery, but is discovered later.
2.2 — Required Tools
•General SAE and Metric hand tools
– Wrenches
– Sockets
– Screwdrivers
•Standard electrician’s hand tools
– Drill and bits for mounting and routing conduits
•4mm Allen wrench (for access to customer connections)
•3/16 Allen wrench (test port on fuel regulator)
•Manometer (for fuel pressure checks)
•Meter capable of measuring AC Voltage and Frequency
•Meter capable of measuring AC Current

Unpacking and Inspection
8Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
2.3 — Unpacking
1. Remove shipping carton. See Figure 2-1.
Figure 2-1. Unpack Generator
2. Remove four bolts with crating clamps. Carefully lift the generator off the wooden pallet. Do NOT drag the gener-
ator off the pallet or damage to the base will occur. See Figure 2-2.
Figure 2-2. Remove Crating Clamps
Wooden
Generator
Frame
15 kW
Lid
Front
Crating Clamps (4)
Access Panel
Pallet
15 kW

Unpacking and Inspection
Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators 9
3. The lid of the generator enclosure is locked. Open the side door compartment and carefully cut the cable strap to
release the keys from the circuit breaker switch. See Figure 2-3.
Figure 2-3. Open Side Door Compartment to Obtain Keys
4. The lid is secured by two locks, one on each side of the enclosure. For best results, press down on the lid directly
above the side lock, and while holding the lid down, use key to unlock the latch. Repeat step on opposite side of
enclosure.
NOTE: The lid may appear stuck if pressure is not applied as described. Always verify that the side locks are
unlocked before pulling up on lid.
5. Raise lid.
6. Lift front access panel straight up to disengage side hooks, and then outward away from unit.
7. Perform a thorough visual inspection for any hidden damage. Contact the freight carrier if any damage is evident.
8. Remove and inventory loose parts. See Subsection 2.4 —Parts Shipped Loose.
65

Unpacking and Inspection
10 Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
Figure 2-4. Customer Connection Area/Loose Parts Location
9. Figure 2-4 illustrates the following:
•Customer connection area (beneath and behind the control pad)
•Fuel regulator
•Battery compartment
•Location of Loose Parts shipped
Figure 2-5. Generator Back View
Connection Area (Under Control Pad)
Battery Compartment
Fuel
Loose Parts
Regulator
Fuel Inlet Connection
MAIN AC/Control WiringMain AC/Control Wiring
Base Fascia (If Equipped)
Conduit Hole (1-1/4 inch) with Cap PlugConduit Hole (3/4 inch) with Cap Plug

Unpacking and Inspection
Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators 11
2.4 — Parts Shipped Loose
The generator is shipped with the following loose parts:
•Rubber Mounts (units that include fascia)
•Battery Terminal Cap
•Main Line Circuit Breaker (MLCB) Terminal Caps
•Main Line Circuit Breaker (MLCB) Locking Mechanism
•Keys
•Flexible Fuel Line
•Oil Drain Pump Kit
•Wire Shielding to separate AC from DC control wires
•Rear Mounting Brackets (2)
•Installation/Owner’s Manuals (CD if applicable)
Figure 2-6. Loose Parts
Battery
Keys
Wire Shielding
Flexible Fuel Line
Rubber Mounts
(Cable Strapped to Battery Cable or Alternator Bolt)
MLCB Terminal Caps
Terminal Cap
Installation Guidelines
For
Automatic Standby Generator
15 kW Synergy EcoGen™
This manual should remain with the unit.
This manual must be used in conjunction
with the appropriate owner’s manual.

NOT INTENDED FOR USE IN CRITICAL
LIFE SUPPORT APPLICATIONS.

ONLY QUALIFIED ELECTRICIANS OR
CONTRACTORS SHOULD ATTEMPT
INSTALLATION!

DEADLY EXHAUST FUMES! OUTDOOR
INSTALLATION ONLY!
To locate in Spanish, go to http://www.generac.com/serviceͲsupport/productͲsupportͲlookup
To locate in French, go to http://www.generac.com/serviceͲsupport/productͲsupportͲlookup
Owner’s Manual
For
Automatic Standby Generator
15 kW Synergy EcoGen™
This manual should remain with the unit.
This manual must be used in conjunction
with the appropriate installation manual.

NOT INTENDED FOR USE IN CRITICAL
LIFE SUPPORT APPLICATIONS.

ONLY QUALIFIED ELECTRICIANS OR
CONTRACTORS SHOULD ATTEMPT
INSTALLATION!

DEADLY EXHAUST FUMES! OUTDOOR
INSTALLATION ONLY!
To locate in Spanish,go to http://www.generac.com/serviceͲsupport/productͲsupportͲlookup
To locate in French, go to http://www.generac.com/serviceͲsupport/productͲsupportͲlookup
Owner’s Manual
Installation Manual
MLCB Locking Mechanism
Rear Mounting
Brackets
Oil Drain Pump Kit

Unpacking and Inspection
12 Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
This page intentionally left blank.

Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators 13
Section 3 Site Selection and Preparation
3.1 — Site Selection
Figure 3-1. Installation Guidelines
These guidelines are based upon fire
testing of the generator enclosure and
the manufacturer’s requirement for air
flow for proper operation. Local codes
may be different and more restrictive
than what is described here.
Clearance from the ends and front of the gener-
ator must be 36 in (914 mm). This would
include shrubs, bushes or trees. Clearance at
the top should be a minimum of 60 in (1524
mm) from any structure, overhang or projec-
tions from the wall. The generator should not
be placed under a deck or other structure that
is closed in and would limit or constrain air flow.
No operable windows or openings in the wall permitted
within 5 ft (1.52 m) from any point of the generator.
Clearancefromoperable
windows, doors or any
openings in the wall.
Top of Generator
60 in (1524 mm) Minimum
60 in (1524 mm)
18 in (457 mm)
Generator
Minimum
Required
Minimum From Ends
Existing Wall
Clearancefromoperable
windows, doors or any
openings in the wall.
to openings in walls
36 in
(914 mm) 36 in (914 mm)
36 in
(914 mm)
60 in (1524 mm) 60 in (1524 mm)
18 in (457 mm)
Minimum Distance

Site Selection and Preparation
14 Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
Install the generator outdoors in its protective enclosure where adequate cooling and ventilating air is always available.
Also consider these other factors:
•Installation must strictly comply with NFPA 37, NFPA 54, NFPA 58, and NFPA 70 standards.
•Install the generator where air inlet and outlet openings will not be obstructed by leaves, grass, snow, etc. If pre-
vailing winds can cause blowing or drifting, use a windbreak for protection.
•Install the generator on high ground where rising water levels will not endanger it. The generator must not oper-
ate in or be subjected to standing water.
•Allow sufficient room on all sides of the generator for maintenance and servicing. Install the unit in accordance
with current applicable NFPA 37 and NFPA 70 standards, as well as any other federal, state and local codes for
minimum distances from other structures. DO NOT install under wooden decks or structures unless there is at
least 5 feet (1.52 m) of clearance above the generator, 3 feet (0.91 m) of clearance at sides and front, and a min-
imum of 18 inches (457 mm) of clearance at the back of the unit.
•Install where rain gutter down spouts, roof run-off, landscape irrigation, water sprinklers or sump pump discharge
does not flood, spray, or splash the enclosure, particularly air inlet or outlet openings.
•Install where services will not be affected or obstructed, including concealed, underground or covered services
such as electrical, fuel, phone, air conditioning or irrigation. This could affect Warranty Coverage.
•Where strong prevailing winds blow from one direction, face the generator air inlet openings to the prevailing
winds.
•Install the generator as close as possible to the fuel supply source to reduce the length of piping required.
REMEMBER THAT LAWS OR CODES MAY REGULATE THE DISTANCE AND LOCATION.
•If applicable, install the generator as close as possible to the transfer switch. REMEMBER THAT LAWS OR
CODES MAY REGULATE THE DISTANCE AND LOCATION.
•Install the generator on a level surface. The generator must be level within a 0.5 inches (13mm) all around.
•The generator is typically placed on a concrete pad, compacted pea gravel, or crushed stone. Check local codes
to see what type is required. If a concrete pad is required, follow all federal, state and local codes.
3.1.1— Installation Guidelines
The National Fire Protection Association has a standard for the installation and use of stationary combustion engines.
That standard is NFPA 37, its requirements limit the spacing of an enclosed generator set from a structure or wall (Fig-
ure 1.10).
NFPA 37, Section 4.1.4, Engines Located Outdoors: Engines, and their weatherproof housings if provided, that are
installed outdoors shall be located at least 5 ft (1.52 m) from openings in walls and at least 5 ft (1.52 m) from structures
having combustible walls. A minimum separation shall not be required where either of the following conditions exist:
1. The adjacent wall of the structure has a fire resistance rating of at least 1 hour.
2. The weatherproof enclosure is constructed of noncombustible materials and it has been demonstrated that a fire
within the enclosure will not ignite combustible materials outside the enclosure.
Annex A — Explanatory Material
A4.1.4 (2) Means of demonstrating compliance are by means of full scale fire test or by calculation procedures.
Because of the limited spaces that are frequently available for installation, it has become apparent that exception (2)
would be beneficial for many residential and commercial installations. With that in mind, the manufacturer contracted
with an independent testing laboratory to run full scale fire tests to assure that the enclosure will not ignite combustible
materials outside the enclosure.
NOTE: Southwest Research Institute testing approves 18 inches (457 mm) installation minimum from struc-
ture. Southwest Research is a nationally recognized third party testing and listing agency.
The criteria was to determine the worst case fire scenario within the generator and to determine the ignitability of items
outside the engine enclosure at various distances. The enclosure is constructed of non-combustible materials, and the
results and conclusions from the independent testing lab indicated that any fire within the generator enclosure would
not pose any ignition risk to nearby combustibles or structures, with or without fire service personnel response.

Site Selection and Preparation
Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators 15
Figure 3-2. Southwest Research Institute Decal
Southwest Research Institute Decal (located inside the generator, next to the generator’s data decal)
http://www.swri.org/4org/d01/fire/listlab/listprod/director.htm
Based on this testing and the requirements of NFPA 37, Sec 4.1.4, the guidelines for installation of the genera-
tors listed above are changed to 18 inches (457 mm) from any point of the generator enclosure to a stationary
wall, building or structure. The required distance for maintenance and airflow clearance, the area above the genera-
tor should be at least 5 feet (1.52 m) with a minimum of 3 feet (0.91 m) at the front and ends of the enclosure. This
would include trees, shrubs and bushes. Vegetation not in compliance with these clearance parameters could obstruct
air flow. In addition, exhaust fumes from the generator could inhibit plant growth. For details, see the installation draw-
ing within the owner’s manual and Figure 3-1.
Generator exhaust contains DEADLY carbon monoxide gas, which can cause unconsciousness or death. Do not place
the unit near windows, doors, fresh air intakes (furnaces, etc.) or any openings in the building or structure, including
windows and doors of attached garage.
If the generator is not set to the OFF mode, it can crank and start as soon as the battery
cables are connected.
3.2 — Site Preparation
•Locate the mounting area as close as possible to the electrical loads that are to be powered by the generator and
fuel supply.
•Leave adequate room around the area for service access (check local code), and place high enough to keep out
rising water.
•Choose an open space that provides adequate and unobstructed airflow.
•Position the unit so air vents will not become clogged with leaves, grass, snow, or debris. Be sure exhaust fumes
will not enter the building through eaves, windows, ventilation fans or other air intakes (see the “Site Selection”
section).
•Select a gravel or concrete base depending upon local code requirements.
*

Site Selection and Preparation
16 Installation Guidelines for Air-Cooled Generators
3.2.1— Material Sufficient for Level Installation
•Dig a rectangular area approximately 5 inches (127 mm) deep and about 6 inches (152 mm) longer and wider
than the footprint of the generator. Fill with pea gravel, crushed stone or any other non-combustible material suf-
ficient for level installation. Compact and level the material. A concrete pad can be poured if required. Make the
concrete pad 4-5 inches (102-127 mm) thick and extend 6 inches (152 mm) beyond the outside perimeter of the
generator in all directions.
NOTE: If a concrete pad is required, follow all applicable Federal, State and local codes.
Figure 3-3. Compacted Gravel Site
Figure 3-4. Concrete Pad Site