GenerLink MA23-N User manual

Operating Manual

www.generlink.com

MA23-N (unit without whole house surge suppression)

MA23-S (unit with whole house surge suppression)

MA24-N (unit without whole house surge suppression)

MA24-S (unit with whole house surge suppression)

Operating Manual

GenerLink™

225 Arnold Road

Lawrenceville, GA 30044

www.generlink.com

OPER-MA23/24-N/S

5.1.19

Please refer

to page 22

for GenerLink testing,

while utility power

is present.

Warranty and Service Information

arranty and Service Information

GenerLink™ Manufacturers Limited Warranty

Global Power Products (GPP) warrants GenerLink™for a period of two (2) years unconditional

replacement, plus an additional five (5) year manufacturers warranty after delivery of goods,

where specified that the goods are, under normal use and service, free from defects in materials,

and workmanship. No other warranties or representations, whether written or oral, shall be

binding upon Global Power Products. If any unit provided by Global Power Products does not

comply with any of the expressed warranties set forth above and customer provides Global Power

Products notice of such noncompliance within the seven (7) year warranty period, Global Power

Products shall at its discretion repair or replace the nonconforming unit after receipt of the

nonconforming unit for its inspection. Global Power Products’ sole liability to customer for goods

not conforming to any of the express warranties is limited to repair or replacement of such units.

Warranty on the repaired unit or any component thereof is limited to the balance of the original

warranty period.

Surge Protection Manufacturers Limited Warranty

Fifteen Year Product Coverage

GPP will repair or replace any Surge Protection Device that is defective in material or

workmanship or is damaged by an electrical surge (including those caused by lightning) for a

period of fifteen (15) years from the date of installation or fifteen years and six (6) months from

the date of manufacture, whichever comes first. Maximum coverage is $1,000 per

appliance, $10,000 per residence.

A “White Goods Appliance” is defined as a washer, dryer, stove, refrigerator, freezer, HVAC unit,

dishwasher or garbage disposal. Coverage is secondary to any applicable product warranties,

service contracts and insurance policies.

This coverage applies to the end-user at the residence where the product is installed and is the

exclusive remedy under this warranty, whether based on contract, tort, including negligence or

otherwise. GPP reserves the right to audit damage, site and/or cost of repairs and may require a

notarized proof of loss. Claims must be made within 30 days of damage. This warranty does not

cover damage associated with sustained overvoltages, vandalism, theft, normal wear and tear,

obsolescence, abuse, unauthorized modification, misuse, improper installation, or catastrophic

events. Except as expressed previously in this warranty, GPP disclaims liability of any incidental,

indirect, special, or consequential damage arising out of the sale, lease, or use of any GPP product

(including without limitation, lost business profits, loss of data and all freight, mileage, travel

time, and insurance charges associated with the warranty coverage claims). Some states do not

allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above does not

apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights which

vary from state to state. This warranty is valid in the United States and Canada only.

Surge Protection Warranty Assistance: Call 1-800-886-3837

Transfer Switch: Used in conjunction with a sub panel. Device installed by a

licensed electrician designed to allow interconnection of a portable generator with

limited appliance availability.

Utility’s Electric Distribution System: A network of power lines and associated

equipment used to transmit and distribute electricity over a geographic area.

Voltage: Electrical potential or force that causes current to flow through a conductor.

Watt: A unit that measures the amount of electrical power. watts = volts x amps

Important Installation Information

You MUST have this information should the unit need repair or

replacement. Please complete the information and keep this

information for future reference.

Installation Date:

_________________________________________________________________

Company Name:

_________________________________________________________________

Address:_________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

Phone Number:

_________________________________________________________________

Installer Company Name:

_________________________________________________________________

GenerLink Serial Number:

_________________________________________________________________

GenerLink™ unit shall not be removed or uninstalled by anyone other than an Approved

Installer. If the GenerLink™ unit requires inspection, removal, repair, or replacement,

immediately contact the Approved Installer or a licensed electrician to request that the

GenerLink™ unit be removed. Once the GenerLink™ unit is removed, contact GenerLink™ at

225 Arnold Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30044, or call at 1.800.886.3837 to receive instructions on

how to have the GenerLink™ unit repaired and/or replaced.

Terms and Conditions of Usage

erms and Conditions of Usage

TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Upon breaking the seal attached to the installed GenerLink™, you

expressly agree that usage is restricted and subject to the following terms and conditions

(“Terms and Conditions”).

INSTALLATION AND CARE OF PROPERTY. The GenerLink™ unit must be installed by an

Approved Installer and may not be removed or modified by anyone other than an Approved

Installer. An Approved Installer is defined as a licensed electrician or a technician approved by

your local electric utility (“Utility”). As a user of GenerLink™, you further agree to follow the

GenerLink™ Start-Up Procedure provided in the Operating Manual, incorporated herein by

reference. At all times, the GenerLink™ unit shall be used solely for the purpose intended, in

accordance with the Instructions and “Safety Tips,” contained in this Operating Manual,

incorporated herein by reference. You understand that any installation, removal, or

modification by anyone other than an Approved Installer is dangerous and is expressly

prohibited under the terms of this agreement.

DELIVERY AND ACCEPTANCE OF PROPERTY. Within Thirty (30) days of its installation, you are

required to test the GenerLink™ unit with a generator. Written notice of any defects or

concerns with the operation of the GenerLink™ unit must be received within Forty-Five (45)

days from the installation date of the GenerLink™ unit by Global Power Products at 225 Arnold

Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30044 specifying any defects, or it shall be conclusively presumed that

you have accepted the GenerLink™ unit and found it to be in good operating condition and

repair. This provision shall not be applicable to latent defects of which you could not

reasonably be aware.

SAFETY. You understand and agree that once the GenerLink™ unit is installed, it is the only

safe and allowable method for connecting a generator to your home. You grant the Utility the

right to enter the site where the GenerLink™ unit is installed, to temporarily disconnect the

generator, and to physically “lock out” the GenerLink™ unit at any time if the Utility

determines that a potential hazard exists and that such temporary action is necessary to protect

the Utility’s electric system, its customers, and/or its employees.

INSPECTION, REMOVAL AND REPAIR. You acknowledge that the GenerLink™ unit shall not

be removed or removal by anyone other than an Approved Installer. If the GenerLink™ unit

requires inspection, removal, repair, or replacement, immediately contact an Approved Installer

to request that the GenerLink™ unit be removed. Contact GenerLink™ at 225 Arnold Road,

Lawrenceville, GA 30044, or call at 1.800.886.3837 to receive instructions on how to have the

GenerLink™ unit repaired and/or replaced.

CLAIMS AND EXPENSES. You expressly agree to hold the Utility, the Authorized GenerLink

Reseller, and Global Power Products harmless from any and all claims, costs, expenses,

damages, and liabilities, including reasonable attorney’s fees, resulting from, or alleged to be

caused by, directly or indirectly, use, operation, or failure of the GenerLink™ unit.

TERMS TO BE EXCLUSIVE. You acknowledge that the Terms and Conditions constitute the

final and entire agreement regarding the use and purchase of the GenerLink™ device.

GOVERNING LAW. It is expressly understood and agreed that the Terms and Conditions are to

be interpreted according to the laws of the Georgia.

No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or

mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by an information storage or retrieval system without the

prior written permission of Global Power Products unless such copying is expressly permitted by federal copy-

right law.

Address inquiries to:

GenerLink

225 Arnold Road

Lawrenceville, GA 30044 27

Glossary of T

Glossary of Terms

erms

Amp (Ampere): The amount of electricity or current flowing through a wire,

similar to the flow of water through a pipe.

Back feed: A condition where electricity is being generated from a source

outside the utility power grid and is feeding/traveling back into the power lines.

Breaker Panel: The main circuit breaker panel (or fuse box) is where all the

circuits/fuses connect to the incoming electrical supply line from the utility.

Breakers: See Circuit Breaker

Capacity: The amount of power, expressed in watts, kilowatts or megawatts,

that a device can provide at any given instant.

The maximum load of electricity that equipment can carry.

Circuit: A continuous loop of current.

Circuit Breaker: The most common type of “overcurrent protection.” A

resettable switch that trips when a circuit becomes overloaded or shorts out.

Connection Cord: An electrical receptacle and plug wired to a length of

flexible electrical cord.

Continuous Output: The amount of power produced continuously as opposed

to the maximum output, which can only be produced for short periods of time.

Current: The rate at which electricity flows, measured in amperes.

Electric Panel: See Breaker Panel

Fuses: Removable devices that link a circuit at the fuse box. A non-resettable

overcurrent device.

Generator: A machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

GenerLink: A five-inch collar-like device installed behind your electric meter,

which allows you to easily and safely connect a portable generator to your

home’s existing wiring system.

GenerLok: GenerLok is a unique fitted locking connector, exclusively available

for GenerLink.

Setup Procedures

Carefully read all the instructions before using GenerLink.

The best time to prepare for a power outage is before there is an actual

interruption of utility-supplied power. The following are suggested steps to

prepare for an actual power outage using your portable generator and

GenerLink.

■Determine which appliances are on each circuit breaker.

Note: circuit breakers may control more than one appliance. We recommend

you affix labels to each circuit breaker listing its appliances.

■Familiarize yourself with the typical power requirements of the

appliances you expect to use during an outage, always taking into

consideration the capacity of your generator. See Sample Worksheets

located in this manual.

■Verify that the green status light on the GenerLink unit is illuminated.

This light is located on the collar behind the connection cord below

your electric meter. (See Diagram 1). The yellow status light may also

be illuminated, this is a normal condition.

■Verify that the GenerLink unit is not emitting a constant audible alarm.

This can only occur with units equipped with optional surge protection

(Model #MA23/24-S). (See Audible Alarm section in this manual)

Diagram 1

Status Lights

124

Green

Red

Yellow

Blue

Hardwire: Process of wiring electric appliances directly into the electric power

supply.

Indicator Lights See Status Lights

Load Watts: See Start-up Wattage

Loads: A source drives a load. An appliance, component or other device that

requires current to operate.

Meter: Any electrical or electronic device used to measure the amount of

electricity consumed.

NEMA: National Electrical Manufacturers Association. A standard which

specifies the electrical connectors used on plug-in equipment.

Overload: A condition that occurs when the load is greater than the

system/device is designed to handle.

Power Cord: See Connection Cord

Power Outage: A temporary loss of electric power or temporary disconnection

from the electric utility.

Running Wattage: The amount of energy necessary to continue running an

appliance once it has started.

Status Lights: GenerLink status lights are designed to display power conditions

with the GenerLink unit, the utility and the portable generator.

Start-up Wattage: The amount of energy needed to first start an appliance. This

amount is usually larger than the running wattage for appliances with motors

(refrigerator). It is usually the same for appliances without motors (lights).

Sub Panel: Device used in connection with a transfer switch designed to bypass

a breaker panel and limits the amount of load or number of appliances that can

be placed on a generator.

Surge: A power disturbance known also as a transient voltage.

A brief but extreme burst of energy.

Surge Protection: Any device designed to limit or eliminate transient voltages

from entering power, signal, telephone or data lines.

Contents

Setup Procedures 1

Status Lights 2

Audible Alarm 3

Start-Up Procedures 4

The GenerLok™ Power Cord 7

Selecting a Portable Generator 11

Appliance Usage Guide 13

Sample Worksheets and Instructions 15

Technical Fact Sheets 17

Frequently Asked Questions 19

Troubleshooting Tips 22

Glossary of Terms 24

iii 25

Please refer

to page 22

for GenerLink testing,

while utility power

is present.

Audible Alarm

This section only applies to GenerLink units equipped with optional

surge protection. Check the product label on unit collar for the model

number. Units with a model number MA23/24-S contain the whole

house surge suppression system.

GenerLink units equipped with optional surge protection are also equipped

with an audible alarm. The alarm will sound continuously if the surge

components require service. (Refer to the Terms and Conditions for service

instructions) Do not, under any conditions, attempt to remove or repair

GenerLink yourself.

If the alarm is sounding, you CAN CONNECT a generator to GenerLink.

The audible alarm is an indication that service may be required. An authorized

utility technician or licensed electrician must service the device. (Refer to the

Terms and Conditions for service instructions)

Troubleshooting T

roubleshooting Tips

ips

Problem

The GenerLink will not transfer to the generator during testing with utility

power present.

Cause

The GenerLink unit is equipped with a lockout circuit that prevents transfer to

generator power if the load on the home exceeds 50-amps. The yellow status

light will be illuminated if the load exceeds 50-amps

Solution / Testing

1. Disconnect the generator.

2. Reduce the load by turning off ALL the circuit breakers in the house

3. Confirm that the yellow status light is not illuminated

4. Reconnect and restart the generator.

5. Restore load equal to or less than the capacity of generator.

6. Operate household loads using your generator.

7. Do not, under any conditions, attempt to remove or repair GenerLink

yourself.

Problem

GenerLink will not continuously connect the generator to the loads or it

periodically cycles the loads on and off.

Cause

GenerLink is equipped with load sensing capabilities. If it detects a connected

load that exceeds the 50 amp continuous load rating, it will automatically

disconnect the generator for a short period of time.

Solution

Reconnect GenerLink through a 20-amp, 30-amp or 50-amp connector.

Problem

The green indicator light on GenerLink is not illuminated when utility power

is present.

Cause

The green status light on the bottom of the GenerLink must be illuminated

when utility power is present. If it is not illuminated, this may indicate an

abnormal condition that may require service.

Solution

1. Call for service. (Refer to the Terms and Conditions for service instructions)

2. Do not attempt to test or use the GenerLink with a generator until the

condition is corrected.

3. Do not, under any conditions, attempt to remove and/or repair GenerLink

yourself.

Problem

After the generator is turned off and utility power is present, the house load

begins to cycle on and off.

Cause

While connected to the generator, GenerLink may have suffered an internal

failure.

Solution

1. Reduce the load by turning off all circuit breakers in the house.

2. Reconnect and restart the generator.

3. Restore load equal to the capacity of generator.

4. Operate household loads using your generator.

5. Call for service. (Refer to the Terms and Conditions for service instructions)

6. Do not, under any conditions, attempt to remove or repair GenerLink

yourself.

Status Lights

GenerLink is equipped with one blue status light, one green status light, one

yellow status light, and one red fault status light. (See Diagram 1)

In the event of a power outage, none of the status lights will be

illuminated until generator power is provided.

Green Status Light

When the green status light is illuminated utility power is present. This

represents a normal condition. If normal utility-supplied power is present in

your home (you are not powering your home with a generator) and the green

status light is NOT illuminated, maintenance is required and the unit must be

serviced. Do not, under any conditions, attempt to remove or repair GenerLink

yourself. (Refer to the Terms and Conditions for service instructions)

Red Status Light

The red status light indicates an abnormal condition exists and GenerLink’s safe-

ty circuits were initiated. Illumination of the red status light does not indicate

an unsafe condition exists. It is normal for the red status light to momentarily

illuminate when GenerLink cycles between generator and utility power.

If the red fault status light is illuminated continuously, DO NOT CONNECT a

generator to GenerLink. Service is required, immediately contact your Utility or

the Approved Installer. (Refer to the Terms and Conditions for service instructions)

Yellow Status Light

ellow Status Light

The yellow light indicates that the household load is greater than 30 amps. It is

normal for the yellow status light to be illuminated while utility power is present.

The load must be reduced before the GenerLink unit can be operated with a

portable generator. Reduce the load by turning off circuit breakers in the

breaker panel.

Blue Status Light

When the blue status light is illuminated, generator power is present. This repre-

sents that the generator is properly connected to the GenerLink and providing

generator power.

!WARNING

If the green status light is NOT illuminated when

utility power is present, or the red fault status

light IS illuminated, a potential hazardous

condition may exist. Contact your electric utility

or authorized installer.

223

Q. What happens if the generator gets overloaded?

A. Your generator should have a circuit breaker that will activate in the event

of an overload. If it does not have this feature, it is not suit-able for use with

GenerLink. If the generator’s circuit breaker trips, turn off all the household

circuit breakers in your breaker panel, reset the circuit breaker on the genera-

tor, and restart the generator. Please refer to your generator owner’s manual for

complete instructions on the safe operation of your generator.

Q. Where should the generator be placed?

A. Remember, generator exhaust gases contain deadly carbon monoxide. The

generator should never be operated inside, this includes basements, crawl spaces

and/or attached garages. Please consult your generator owner’s manual for com-

plete instructions on the safe location for and operation of your generator.

Q. What is a power cord?

A. A power cord consists of:

■

■a standard GenerLok connector that will attach to GenerLink,

■

■a four wire, 8 or 10 gauge cable that is

■

■insulated, heavy duty, outdoor rated, water-resistant and

■

■an appropriate NEMA connector for your generator.

Your generator may have a 20-amp, 30-amp or 50-amp, 120/240-volt output

that will require a L20-amp, L30-amp or 50-amp, NEMA connector. The

length of the power cord should be as close to the actual measured distance

from the meter to the generator as possible in order to maintain your genera-

tor’s power quality.

Q. What gauge wire is used to make the cord?

A. 8 gauge wire is used. The cord is heavy duty, outdoor rated, fire and water

resistant and is appropriate for cords up to 65 feet for a 50- amp circuit.

Q. What if my generator connector does not have a straight or locking

L14-20, L14-30, or 14-50 connector?

A. Some generators are fitted with connectors that are not L14-20, L14-30,

or 14-50. Consult with your local utility or a GenerLink Authorized Reseller

to determine if your generator can be used to connect with GenerLink.

Q. What happens if I want GenerLink removed from my home?

A. To remove, replace, or repair your GenerLink, you must contact an

Approved Installer. Only technicians authorized by the electric utility or

licensed electricians may have access to GenerLink. Do not, under any condi-

tions, attempt to remove and/or repair GenerLink yourself.

Start-Up Procedures

The following are the start-up procedures for GenerLink. For generator start-up

procedures, please refer to the generator manufacturer owner’s manual.

STEP 1. Turn off all of the circuit breakers in your breaker panel. (See Diagram 2)

STEP 2. Move your generator into position to be con-

nected to GenerLink. Using the GenerLok™ power cord,

insert the four-blade plug on the connecting cord into

the L20-, L30-, or 50-amp, 120/240-volt outlet on the generator.

Do not attempt to connect your generator using a connection cord that

is not fitted with GenerLok. Do not attempt to connect to a three-blade

generator outlet or one rated higher than 50-amps. (See the GenerLok

Power Cord section of this manual)

STEP 3. To plug the GenerLok power cord into GenerLink, first locate the

‘thumb guide’ on the GenerLok connector. Align the ‘thumb guide’ with the

front of the GenerLink receptacle. Insert the connector, there will be a snap-

ping sound when the connector locks in place. (See Diagram 3)

Note: GenerLok cannot be connected successfully:

■if the connector does not lock in place (no snapping sound)

Diagram 3

421

Diagram 2

GenerLok

Connector

GenerLink

Receptacle

STEP 4. Turn off the idle setting (if present) on your generator. This will ensure

that your generator will operate at the correct speed and voltage.

STEP 5. Review the generator starting procedures in the generator owner’s

manual and then start your generator.

STEP 6. If your GenerLink unit is NOT equipped with optional

surge protection (Model #MA23/24-S) please skip to Step 7.

If after starting your generator, the GenerLink unit begins emitting a

constant audible alarm, IT IS STILL SAFE TO OPERATE YOUR

GENERATOR with GenerLink. The alarm indicates that the surge protection

components may require service. (See Warranty and Service Section in this

manual)

STEP 7. Select the appliances that require emergency power. Note the capacity

of your generator and refer to the Appliance Energy Guide in this manual.

Locate the circuit breakers

in your home’s breaker

panel (See Diagram 4) for

the appliances you can

support and turn them on

one at a time. Start with

large motor loads first, such

as refrigerators. Motors require 2 to 3 times more power to start than other

electrical appliances. Allow generator operation to stabilize before starting the

next load. Next, start smaller motors such as a ceiling or ventilating fan. Then

start smaller appliances with no motors such as lights.

STEP 8. When it is time to refuel your generator, turn off all of your home’s

circuit breakers before turning off the generator, and refuel according to your

generator owner’s manual. Then begin with Step 1 of the Start-Up Procedure

to reconnect loads/appliances.

Q. I have meter-based surge protection, but want GenerLink. Should I

get hard-wired surge protection?

A. If your GenerLink unit is equipped with whole house surge protection it will

eliminate the need for meter based or hard wired surge protection devices.

Q. Why can’t I run my whole house from a portable generator?

A. The appliances in the average home consume relatively low amounts of

electricity to operate once they are started. However, many of them require a

significant amount of electricity to start up the appliances. Please review the

appliance guide to determine the start-up wattage required for individual

appliances.

Q. What happens when the utility power is restored and my generator

is operating through GenerLink?

A. Your generator continues to power your home until you turn it off. Once

you turn off your generator, GenerLink will automatically switch your home

back to utility power. GenerLink has a built-in safety feature that prevents back

feeding the generator’s power into the utility lines, eliminating hazardous

conditions for you and for utility service personnel.

Q. What maintenance is required for GenerLink?

A. There is no regular maintenance required for GenerLink.

Q. Does my utility meter continue to run when using GenerLink with

my generator?

A. No, your utility meter will only run when the utility is providing electric

power to your home. When using GenerLink, with your portable generator, you

are automatically disconnected from the utility power supply and will not

reconnect until you turn off your generator.

Q. How can I tell when the utility power is restored?

A. There are four indicator lights on GenerLink, one green, one yellow, one

blue and one red. When the green light is illuminated, this represents a normal

condition where utility power is present. When your blue light is illuminated,

this represents the cord set is connected to the GenerLink correctly. When

your utility has restored power you can de-energize and disconnect your genera-

tor from GenerLink. If the red light is illuminated at any time or in conjunc-

tion with the green light, there is a potential problem and you should have the

unit serviced immediately. (Refer to the Terms and Conditions for service

instructions)

Q. Can I use GenerLink during inclement weather?

A. GenerLink is completely sealed inside the meter socket and does not

represent a hazard; however, generators should not be operated during rain or

snow unless they are protected from the elements. Please consult your generator

manufacturer, distributor and/or owner’s manual for instructions on the safe

operation of your generator.

Diagram 4

Breaker Panel

!WARNING

Before refueling your generator, consult the

manufacturer’s instructions as found in the

generator owner’s manual.

, align with the front of the

GenerLink receptacle. Insert the connector, there will be a snapping sound

when the connector locks in place. (See Diagram 3)

STEP 9. If the generator’s circuit breaker trips off during operation or setup, turn

off all circuit breakers in the breaker panel, reset the circuit breaker on the

generator, and restart the generator if necessary. Select and reconnect loads

following the procedures summarized in Step 7.

STEP 10. To determine when utility power has been restored, check the green

status light (see Status Lights section in this manual). If the green light is

illuminated, utility power is present and you can reconnect to the utility.

To reconnect to your electric utility:

A. Turn off your generator. Expect to hear a ‘clicking’ sound from the

GenerLink unit when the power transition occurs. This is a simple

verification that normal utility service has been restored.

B. On your breaker panel, set all circuit breakers to the ‘on’ position.

C. You can now unplug the generator from GenerLink. To unplug GenerLink,

gently pull down on the metal locking ring at the top of the GenerLok

connector. (See Diagram 5) Store your power cord in a safe and dry

location.

Diagram 5

Locking Ring

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do I need a generator in order to use GenerLink?

A. Yes. GenerLink is an interconnection device that enables you to connect

your portable generator directly to your home’s wiring system. During a

power outage, your generator becomes your source of emergency back-up

power. GenerLink is designed as an alternative to expensive transfer

switches and hazardous extension cords.

Q. How is GenerLink different from a transfer switch?

A. GenerLink offers several advantages over traditional transfer switches:

■

■GenerLink is installed outside your home at the electric meter in less than

30 minutes. And, in most cases, you do not need to be at home for the

GenerLink installation. Installation of a transfer switch can take about

two to three hours and requires re-wiring your home’s electric system.

■

■With GenerLink, you have the flexibility of selecting the appliances you

want to run from your home’s breaker panel, up to the capacity of your

generator. Most basic transfer switches have 6 to 8 hard-wired circuits. This

limits the number of circuits you can connect to the transfer switch.

■

■Since GenerLink uses your existing breaker panel, you can run any large

120 or 240-volt appliance up to your generator’s capacity. Your well pump,

water heater, sump pump, electric range, clothes dryer and electric

baseboard heat are just some of the appliances that can be run on a

rotation basis with GenerLink. Many transfer switches and sub panels have

only one or two 240-volt circuits rated at 15 or 20-amps. Heavier loads,

such as hot water heaters and electric ranges, may not be accommodated by

these transfer switches and sub panels.

Q. Is there any potential for damage to my appliances?

A. GenerLink is designed to function as an interconnection device and serves

to connect your generator to your home. There is no risk of damage to your

appliances created by the GenerLink device. You should exercise care when

selecting your generator to ensure you are buying a high quality generator.

Q. I want surge protection for my home and appliances, can I still use

GenerLink?

A. Yes, GenerLink is now available with an optional feature – surge

protection. GenerLink with surge protection will protect your home and

wired appliances from surges over 600 volts.

The GenerLok™ Power Cord

To connect your portable generator to GenerLink a GenerLok power cord is

required. The GenerLok power cord consists of three components:

A. GenerLok™ connector

B. connector for your generator

C. 8 or 10 gauge power cord (4 wire)

The GenerLok™ Connector:

GenerLink is equipped with GenerLok, a

unique connector that allows for quick and

easy connection to your portable generator.

GenerLok locks in place when connected to

GenerLink. GenerLok is not a threaded con-

nector. Therefore, twisting of the locking

sleeve is not necessary to ensure a tight con-

nection. NOTE: GenerLok will always be

fitted on one end of the power cord.

The Generator Connector:

GenerLink is connected to the generator’s 120/240-volt AC receptacle using a

GenerLok power cord with the appropriate generator connection. Generators

have different types of receptacles depending on the type of generator, the type

of power provided, and the size of the generator. Some generators are rated for

only 120-volt or only 240-volt output; neither are appropriate for powering

your home through GenerLink. If your generator does not have a 120/240-

volt AC receptacle, it is not suitable for use with GenerLink. Check your

generator for one of the receptacles in Diagram 6. These receptacles are rated

for 120/240-volt output, which is what you need to run your home. If your

generator does not have one of these receptacles, it should not be used with

GenerLink. Your GenerLok power cord will be fitted with a male plug

compatible with one of the following generator receptacles.

Surge Protection Specifications and Technical Information

Nominal Line Voltage: 120/240

Max Cont. Operating Voltage: 250

Operating Frequency: 60 Hz

Total Surge Current: 100000 A

Max Surge Current Per Mode: 50000 A L1 - G

50000A L2 - G

Circuit Type: Parallel High Energy

Storage Temperature: -40° to +160° F (-40° to +70° C)

Operating Temperature: -40v to +140° F (-40° to +60° C)

Operating Altitude: Sea Level to 12,000 feet

(3,658 Meters)

Performance:

ANSI/IEEE C62.41:

Category A3 200A 600 V

Category B3 500A 660 V

Category C1 3000A 690 V

EMI/RFI noise rejection: Up to -20dB

Diagram 6

18 7

Surge Protection (Optional MA23/24-S)

To determine if your GenerLink unit is equipped with surge protection, check

the product label on the collar of the device for the model number MA23/24-S.

What are Surges?

A surge is a sudden, unpredictable, powerful increase in voltage that can

damage or destroy household appliances and electronic equipment. Surge

damage can happen all at once in cases of high voltage surges or over a period

of time when lower voltage surges are experienced consistently.

How to Protect Your Home and Appliances from Voltage Surges.

Surges can occur on power, cable TV, telephone and data lines. They are

caused by many sources: lightning, the switching of utility equipment on the

electric grid, electrical accidents, heavy motor or heavy loads from a nearby

industry or locally, by microwave ovens, laser printers and copiers, air

conditioner compressor motors and even lights being turned on and off.

■GenerLink with Surge Protection:

■Protects household equipment including appliances and hard-wired systems

not protected by power strips. Plus, it provides enhanced protection for

household electronics.

■Provides protection beyond typical point-of-use power strips and plug-ins.

■Produces an audible alarm when the devices requires service.

■Protects against spikes up to 100,000 amps on the electric system.

■Provides a white goods warranty of $1,000/appliance and/or $10,000/house.

■Is meter-based and will provide the first line of defense at your home’s

service entrance and for your wired appliances from voltage surges. (Refer

to the Terms and Conditions for service instructions)

To protect sensitive plugged-in appliances and equipment, you should combine

GenerLink (with surge protection) with outlet-strip/ plug-in surge protectors.

Purchase high quality plug-in strips to protect sensitive equipment and

appliances such as your computer and audio/visual equipment. Always consult

your specific appliance owner’s manual before installing plug-in surge strips.

16 9

WORKSHEET A

Generator Size:

(Watts)

Load Start X Run Watts = Load

Factor Watts

60 X=

100 X=

150 X=

Total:

B C D E

Lights Wattage Number

The Connection Cord:

Connection cords are typically 20 to 60 feet long, with a maximum

recommended length of 60 feet for a 50-amp circuit. To determine the correct

cord length, follow these easy steps:

STEP 1. Select a location for your generator when it is being used with

GenerLink. Consult your generator manufacturers owner’s manual for

instructions on the acceptable placement of your generator.

STEP 2. Measure the length of the cord you will need by calculating the

distance from the installed GenerLink to your generator, including the vertical

distance from the electric meter to the ground.

The length of the power cord should always be as close as possible to the actual

measured distance from the electric meter in order to maximize your generator’s

power quality. Additionally, the power cord must be fully unrolled during use.

NOTE:

The GenerLok power cord is the only power cord approved for use

with GenerLink. The GenerLok connector can only be used with

GenerLink. It is not compatible for use with any other electric

appliance/device.

8 17

Technical Fact Sheet

echnical Fact Sheet

GenerLink Specifications and Technical Information

Physical:

Diameter: 6 ¹�₂ in.

Depth: 5 ¹�₄ in.

Weight w/o surge: 5 ¹�₂ lbs

Weight with surge: 5 ³�₄ lbs

Socket Style: Ring or Ring-less, 200 Amp, 4 jaw

Electrical:

Source Compatibility: 200 Ampere Service or Less

Withstand Current: 10,000 Amperes rms symmetrical at .5 pf,

240 Volts, 60 Hz 6000 Amperes for 6 cycles

at .7 - .8 pf, 240 Volts, 60 Hz

Generator Input: 10kW Continuous, 120/240 Volt

Connection: Proprietary GenerLok™ QuickConnect

Power Cord

Operational:

Transfer Type: Break-Before-Make

Transfer Delay: 2-3 Seconds

Life Cycle: 300,000 Operations

Temperature Range: -30°C to 60°C External Ambient

Features:

Generator Input Protection: Generator Input Voltage ≥200 Volts

Supplemental Overcurrent ≤40 A

Utility Input Protection: Utility Input Voltage ≥180 Volts

Over-Temperature Trip ≥105°C

Load Protection: Integrated Whole-House

Surge Protection (Optional)

Status Indication: Long-life LED indicators show utility power

availability and/or fault presence

Listings: UL 1008M - Meter socket transfer switch

* When protected by max 200 A circuit breaker in series with 100 A branch circuit breaker

Selecting a Portable Generator

What Kind of Generator Do I Need?

There are a wide variety of portable generators available for purchase. Some

are more suitable than others for connecting to your house. When selecting a

portable generator to connect to your house, you should ensure the

generator:

■will not damage sensitive electronic

appliances/equipment,

■provides the capacity to start needed motor

loads, such as a well or sump pump

■has the necessary four-wire 20-amp, 30-

amp or 50-amp receptacle required to connect

to GenerLink and

■has a 120/240-volt connector.

As a guide, GenerLink should be used with a generator that has the

following features:

■a peak rating sufficient to start the largest motor you will be running

■an automatic voltage regulator

■‘low oil’ shut down

■L14-20, L14-30 or 14-50 locking or straight receptacles for connecting to

GenerLink and

■120/240-volt output

The quality of power produced by a portable generator is also an important

factor to consider when selecting your generator. If the voltage output is too

low, it could cause motors, such as your refrigerator or furnace motor, to

overheat. If the voltage output is too high, it could damage sensitive

electronic equipment such as your computer or the digital controls on your

heating system.

To maximize your generator’s power quality, it is recommended that your

generator have automatic voltage regulation. Electronic voltage regulation is

preferred over capacitor or condenser type regulation in instances where

sensitive electronic equipment is being operated.

What Size Generator Do I Need?

During a power outage, GenerLink allows you to select the combination of

loads/appliances you want to operate by simply switching breakers in the

household breaker panel. This flexibility makes generator sizing easy.

!CAUTION

Do not turn on your home’s heat pump or cen-

tral air conditioning while using GenerLink.

The starting wattage for these devices exceeds

GenerLink’s 50-amp capacity.

14 11

Notes to Appliance Usage Guide

The wattages on the Appliance Energy Guide are estimates. The estimated

wattage required for your appliances can be easily calculated. (NOTE:

1 kW=1000 watts; 2 kW=2000 watts and so on.) The formula for finding

wattage is: Volts x Amps = Watts (running). Always use starting factor when

calculating electrical load requirements for your generator. Select the appli-

ances you want to operate and add the starting wattages together to determine

if they can all be operated at the same time without exceeding the capacity of

your generator. NOTE: individual circuit breakers on your breaker panel may

control more than one appliance. Always determine which appliances/loads are

connected to specific breakers.

Worksheet Instructions

Write down the maximum and continuous wattage output ratings for your

generator in the boxes marked A.

From the Appliance Energy Guide, select the appliances that you wish to

operate and write them in column B. For each selected appliance, write its

corresponding starting factor and run watts in columns C and D respectively.

For each appliance that you have selected, multiply the starting factor by the

run watts and write the results or the load watts in column E. NOTE: Only

items that start simultaneously should be tallied in column D.

Finally, sum up all of the load wattages for each appliance and lights in column E.

Add each appliances load watts and write the number in box G. The number in box

G represents the total amount of load you plan to run on your portable generator.

Be sure that the total in box G does not exceed the generator size in box A.

Always select a generator that is as large or larger than the estimates for both

running and starting wattages.

VISIT OUR INTERACTIVE WORK SHEET AT

www.generlink.com

Safety T

Safety Tips

ips

Do not wait for an emergency to learn how to connect your generator and

select loads to GenerLink. (See Setup Procedures for detailed information.)

■Do not connect the GenerLok power cord to GenerLink if the red fault

status light is continuously illuminated.

■Never connect or disconnect the GenerLok power cord to/from your

portable generator while the generator is operating. Turn off the portable

generator and turn off all circuits in your breaker panel before connecting

or disconnecting the power cord.

■Before using the GenerLok power cord, check the cord for exposed wires

and/or frayed insulation.

■Keep the power cord stored in a dry, safe location when not in use.

■Ensure that the GenerLok power cord is in a protected area where it will

not be damaged by lawn mowers, power tools or vehicles.

■Never attempt to remove, repair, dismantle, modify, or alter GenerLink

once it has been installed.

!CAUTION

Always locate and operate your

generator in accordance with the

manufacturer’s instructions as outlines

in the generator owner’s manual.

10 15

SAMPLE WORKSHEET

Generator Size: (Watts)

Load Start X Run Watts = Load

Factor Watts

Refrigerator 3X1000 =3000

Sump Pump 2X1000 =2000

Computer 1X200 =200

Fan (central)

¹�₄

hp 3X400 =1200

60 X5=300

100 X1=100

150 X0=0

Total: 6800

B C D E

Lights Wattage Number

9600

You will want a generator that can run the largest appliances and motors you

will need during an outage. You can always run other smaller loads/appliances

by rotating them on and off as necessary.

For example, if you have a generator with 9600 continuous watts of capacity,

during a power outage, you can run the hot water heater (typically 4800 watts)

by simply turning off the majority of other household breakers until the water

tank heats up. Once the water is heated, shut off the water heater breaker and

switch the other household circuit breakers back on.

To determine the loads you can support with a portable generator, you must

consider both the “running watt” and the “starting watt” requirements of the

loads you want to operate. (See Appliance Energy Guide in this manual)

You can purchase or use a generator of any size provided the generator

is equipped with a 4 wire, 120/240-volt receptacle rated at 20-amps,

30-amps and/or 50-amps. GenerLink is designed to be compatible with 20-

amp, 30-amp and 50-amp connectors. GenerLink is not rated to be compatible

with larger current outputs and will electronically disconnect if you are

generating outputs larger than 40-amps.

Appliance Usage Guide

Equipment

Water Heater (50 gallon)

Portable Heater with fan

Furnace Fan (Central) - 1/4 HP

1/3 HP

1/2 HP

Computer

Fax Machine

Space Heater

Refrigerator/Freezer

Home Security System

Lights

Range w/Oven

- Small Burner

- Large Burner

Garage Door Opener - 1/3 HP

- 1/2 HP

Well Pump - 1/3 HP

1/2 HP

3/4 HP

Submersible Sump Pump - 1/2 HP

Electric Heat Pump

Central A/C 3 ton

Dishwasher w/o hot water

Television

Radio

Microwave

Coffee maker

Toaster

Hair Dryer

Washing Machine w/o Hot Water

Clothes Dryer

Air Cleaner

Dehumidifier

Humidifier

Vacuum Cleaner

Starting Factor

Running Wattage

(avg.)

4500-5000

500-1500

400

450

600

200

50-1000

500-1500

750

200

40-150

12200

1300

2400

750

1050

750

1000

1500

1000

6000

1200

150-400

70-200

600-1500

750-1200

1100

600-1400

1000

4850

840

177

800