Power House 500Wi User manual

500Wi Digital Inverter Generator
POWERHOUSE®
OWNER’S MANUAL
PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL
CAREFULLY BEFORE USING

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Quick Start Guide
Use outdoors only. Generators produce carbon monoxide —a poisonous, colorless,
odorless gas that can cause death or serious injury.
Always operate on a level surface.
Keep away from rain, snow or other wet conditions.
Keep away from smoking materials, sparks, and other sources of combustion when
refueling.
Pre-Operation
1. Add oil by removing the maintenance panel and inspecting the dipstick. Fill the oil reservoir with 15.6 oz.
(460 ml) of oil or to the full mark on the dipstick. Use appropriate grade, high-detergent, premium quality,
4-stroke engine oil (synthetic or conventional). Use SAE 15W-40 viscosity oil unless operating at ambient
temperatures below 32° F (0° C). For temperatures below 32° F, use SAE 0W-40 viscosity oil. Refer to the
Operating at extreme temperatures section for more information.
2. Carefully add regular unleaded automotive gasoline up to the shoulder of the filler neck. To avoid spilling
fuel, use care to not fill too quickly or over fill. Avoid getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank. Do not use a
blend that contains more than 10% ethanol. Do not use gasoline containing methanol. An octane rating of
87 or higher is recommended.
Do not add 2-Stroke oil to your fuel. Doing so will void your warranty.
It is recommended that you use a fuel stabilizer, such as STA-BIL®, to help prevent fuel
oxidation (breakdown) and the formation of gum and varnish, and to inhibit corrosion in
the fuel system and carburetor.
Operation
1. Ensure that no loads have been connected to the AC receptacles.
2. Open the fuel valve. If the fuel tank was empty, it may also be necessary to pump the primer bulb 15 to 20
times to get fuel to the carburetor.
3. Push the engine switch on the control panel to the “ON” position.
4. Move the choke lever to the “START” position.
5. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly out. Repeat until the engine starts.
6. Move the choke lever to the “RUN” position after the engine warms up.
7. The green “RUN” light will illuminate when the generator is ready for use. Before connecting any loads,
ground the generator with a length of heavy cable, connecting the generator’s grounding terminal to an
external ground source.
8. Make sure that all appliances to be connected have been switched off and are in good working order.
Confirm that the combined electrical rating of the appliances does not exceed that of the generator.
9. Connect the appliance to the appropriate receptacle on the generator’s control panel.
10. To minimize fuel consumption and noise, push the economy switch to the “ON” position. This setting
regulates the engine’s speed so that it matches the needs of the connected loads. Do not use the economy
setting if you are connecting items with electric motors that have a high amperage draw during startup or
with appliances that cycle on and off rapidly.
Shutdown
In an emergency, pushing the Engine Switch on the control panel to the “OFF” position
will automatically stop the engine with or without a load. However, repeatedly stopping
the generator without disconnecting all loads can cause damage to the generator or
appliances.
1. Turn off all connected appliances and disconnect from the generator.
2. Push the engine switch on the control panel to the “OFF” position.
3. Turn the fuel valve off.

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PREFACE
Thank you for purchasing a POWERHOUSE® generator.
This manual covers operation and maintenance of POWERHOUSE® generator model 500Wi.
All information in this publication is based on the latest product information available at the time of printing.
We reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation.
No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission.
This manual should be considered a permanent part of the generator and should remain with it if it is resold.
Pay special attention to statements preceded by the following words:
Indicates a strong possibility of severe personal injury or death if instructions are not
followed.
Indicates a possibility of personal injury or equipment damage if instructions are not
followed.
Gives helpful information.
If you have a problem with this generator, do not return it to the store where you purchased it. For warranty
support call 877-544-4449 from 8am to 6pm ET, email us at [e-mail] or send a
fax to 800-263-0280.
Failure to properly follow these precautions can result in property damage, serious injury,
or DEATH!
Read all labels and the Owner's Manual before operating this generator.
Generators produce carbon monoxide —a poisonous, colorless, odorless gas that can
cause death or serious injury.
Indoor use of a generator can kill quickly. Generators should be used outdoors only.
Generators should only be used outdoors away from garages and open windows, but
protected from rain and snow.
Check for spilled fuel or leaks. Clean and/or repair before use.
Always stop engine before refueling. Wait 5 minutes before restarting.
Keep any source of ignition away from fuel tank, at all times.
The portable generator is not meant to be used as a permanent back-up power system
for the home. Apermanently installed stationary generator is designed to be safely used
for this specific purpose.
Our generators are designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according
to instructions. Read and understand the Owner's Manual before operating the
generator. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage.
©Copyright DTS Manufacturing /The Coast Distribution System, Inc. 2012

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CONTENTS
500Wi Digital Inverter Generator....................................................................................................................................1
Quick Start Guide ...........................................................................................................................................................2
Pre-Operation .............................................................................................................................................................2
Operation ....................................................................................................................................................................2
Shutdown....................................................................................................................................................................2
PREFACE.......................................................................................................................................................................3
1. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .........................................................................................................................................5
To ensure safe operation ............................................................................................................................................5
2. COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION...............................................................................................................................6
2.1 Control panel 500Wi..........................................................................................................................................7
2.2 Serial number and bar code identification and location.....................................................................................8
3. PRE-OPERATION CHECK ........................................................................................................................................9
3.1 Check the engine oil level..................................................................................................................................9
3.2 Check the fuel level .........................................................................................................................................10
3.3 Check the air cleaner.......................................................................................................................................11
4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ................................................................................................................................12
4.1 Starting the engine...........................................................................................................................................12
4.2 High altitude operation.....................................................................................................................................13
4.3 Operating at extreme temperatures.................................................................................................................13
4.4 Generator use..................................................................................................................................................14
4.5 AC application..................................................................................................................................................15
4.6 Output and Overload Lights.............................................................................................................................16
4.7 DC application .................................................................................................................................................17
4.8 Low oil alarm system .......................................................................................................................................18
4.9 Economy switch...............................................................................................................................................19
4.10 Stopping the engine ....................................................................................................................................19
5. MAINTENANCE .......................................................................................................................................................20
5.1 Emission control system..................................................................................................................................20
5.2 Maintenance Schedule ....................................................................................................................................22
5.3 Changing oil.....................................................................................................................................................23
5.4 Air cleaner service ...........................................................................................................................................24
5.5 Spark plug maintenance..................................................................................................................................25
5.6 Spark arrestor maintenance ............................................................................................................................26
6. TRANSPORTING and STORAGE ...........................................................................................................................27
6.1 Transporting the generator ..............................................................................................................................27
6.2 Short term storage of the Generator................................................................................................................27
6.3 Infrequent use..................................................................................................................................................28
6.4 Exercising the Generator.................................................................................................................................28
7. TROUBLESHOOTING.............................................................................................................................................29
7.1 Engine will not start:.........................................................................................................................................29
7.2 Appliance does not operate.............................................................................................................................30
7.3 No output at the DC receptacle .......................................................................................................................30
8. SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................................................................................................31
9. WARRANTYAND CONSUMER INFORMATION ....................................................................................................32
CALIFORNIA EMISSIONS CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT.........................................................................33
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY ........................................................................................................34
10. APPENDIX B - EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM............................................................................................35
11. APPENDIX C - SAFETYAND CHARGING INSTRUCTIONS.........................................................................36

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1. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This generator is designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according to
instructions.
Read and understand the Owner's Manual before operating the generator. Failure to do
so could result in personal injury or equipment damage.
Exhaust gas contains poisonous carbon monoxide. Never run the generator in an
enclosed area.
Be sure to provide adequate ventilation.
The muffler becomes very hot during operation and remains hot for several minutes after
stopping the engine.
Be careful not to touch the muffler while it is hot.
Let the engine cool before storing the generator indoors.
To ensure safe operation
Gasoline is extremely flammable and explosive under certain conditions. Refuel in a well
ventilated area with the engine stopped.
Keep away from cigarette smoke and sparks when refueling the generator.
Wipe up spilled gasoline at once.
This generator is not intended, nor designed, for use as a standby power supply and
should never be used as such. Severe property damage and/or severe personal injury or
death may result. Never connect this generator to an automatic transfer switch (ATS).
Severe damage to the generator will occur.
To avoid accidents or equipment damage, always make a pre-operation inspection
before you start the engine.
Place the generator at least 3 ft (1 m) away from buildings or other equipment during
operation.
Operate the generator on a level surface. If the generator is tilted, fuel spillage may
result.
Know how to stop the generator quickly and understand operation of all controls. Never
permit anyone to operate the generator without proper instructions.
Keep children and pets away from the generator when it is in operation.
Keep away from moving parts while the generator is running.
Generators are a potential source of electrical shocks when misused; do not operate with
wet hands.
Do not operate the generator in rain or snow and do not let it get wet.
Do not operate this generator inside a compartment. Doing so may lead to overheating
and consequently, fire. It may also lead to death by asphyxiation.
Do not modify the enclosure of this generator.

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2. COMPONENT IDENTIFICATION
Spark Plug
Access Door
Fuel Cap
Control Panel
Choke Lever
Starter Grip
Fuel Lever
Maintenance
Door
Exhaust
Grill

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2.1Control panel 500Wi
Run Light
Overload
Light
Low Oil
Alarm Light
120V ~ 20A
Receptacle
120V ~ 5A Circuit
Breaker
Engine Switch
Economy
Switch
Grounding
Terminal
Battery Charge
Receptacle
12V ~ 2.5A
Battery Charge
Circuit Breaker

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2.2Serial number and bar code identification and location
The generator bar code number and the engine serial number identify your particular unit and are necessary
when ordering parts and accessories. These two numbers are used by your dealer and The Coast Distribution
System, Inc. for warranty administration and must be supplied before any work can be done.
The engine serial number can be found stamped on the
engine to the left of the oil dipstick. It is visible when the
maintenance door is removed.
The bar code label is found in two locations:
1. On the side of the generator near the fuel valve.
2. On the packing carton.
You can also find the BCN number on the foil label on the shipping carton.
Please record this information below and keep this manual in a safe place along with the bill of sale.
Engine Serial Number __________________________________
Bar Code Number _______________________________
Date of Purchase ________________________________
Name of Selling Dealership ________________________________
Please go to www.powerhouse-products.com/register and register your unit today. Online registration will
be accepted as proof of purchase. Online registration will make sure you are protected in the event you have lost
your receipt, and will significantly speed the process in the event warranty service is necessary.
For warranty assistance:
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Serial Number

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3. PRE-OPERATION CHECK
Be sure to check the generator on a level surface with the engine stopped.
3.1Check the engine oil level
Do not use non-detergent oil or 2-stroke engine oil. It will void the warranty and will
shorten the engine's service life.
Use a high-detergent, premium quality, 4-stroke engine oil, certified to meet or exceed
U.S. automobile manufacturer's requirements for API Service Classification SG/SF.
Synthetic oil is approved for use in Powerhouse generators, and is recommended for
operating the generator in temperatures below 32° F.
Change the oil in a new engine between the first 4 to 6 hours of operation to clean
manufacturing debris and contamination.
Use SAE 15W-40 viscosity oil unless operating at ambient temperatures below 32° F
(0° C). For temperatures below 32° F, use SAE 0W-40 viscosity oil. Refer to the
Operating at extreme temperatures section for more information.
1. Loosen the cover screws and remove the maintenance cover.
2. Remove the dipstick, wipe it with a clean rag and reinsert it into the filler neck, screwing it down completely.
3. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level.
4. If the oil level is at or below the lower level of the dipstick, refill with the recommended oil up to the top of the
upper level marking. It may be necessary to tilt the engine slightly to allow trapped air to escape as you add
oil. Do not overfill.
5. Reinsert the dipstick and be sure to screw it down until it is tight.
Running the engine with insufficient oil can cause serious engine damage.
The Low Oil Alarm System will automatically stop the engine before the oil level falls
below a safe limit. However, to avoid the inconvenience of an unexpected shutdown, it is
still advisable to visually inspect the oil level regularly.
Engine oil capacity: 7.4 fl oz (0.46 pt) / 220 ml
Oil Fill Hole
Dip Stick
Upper Level
Lowest oil level
allowed

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3.2Check the fuel level
Use automotive unleaded regular gasoline only.
1. If the fuel level is low, refill to the bottom of the filler neck.
2. Never use an oil/gasoline mixture or dirty gasoline.
3. Avoid getting dirt, dust or water in the fuel tank.
4. After refueling, tighten the fuel filler cap securely.
It is recommended that you use a fuel stabilizer, such as STA-BIL®, to help prevent fuel
oxidation (breakdown) and the formation of gum and varnish, and to inhibit corrosion in
the fuel system and carburetor.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and is explosive under certain conditions.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped. Keep all smoking materials,
sparks, and any other source of combustion away from the generator during refueling.
Do not overfill the fuel tank (there should be no fuel above the top of the fuel strainer).
After refueling, make sure the tank cap is closed properly and securely.
Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling. Spilled fuel or fuel vapor may ignite. If any fuel
is spilled, make sure the area is dry before starting the engine.
Avoid repeated or prolonged contact with skin or breathing of vapor. KEEP OUT OF
REACH OF CHILDREN.
Fuel tank capacity: 0.37 gal (1.4 liters)
Gasoline containing alternate fuels
Do not use a blend that contains more than 10% ethanol. Do not use gasoline containing methanol. An octane
rating of 87 or higher is recommended.
Fuel system damage or engine performance problems resulting from the use of fuels that
contain an improper alcohol blend, or by adding oil to the fuel, are not covered under
warranty.
Before buying fuel from an unfamiliar station, determine if the fuel contains ethanol and if
it does, confirm the type and percentage of ethanol used. If you notice any undesirable
operating symptoms while using a gasoline that contains ethanol, or one that you think
contains ethanol, replace it with a gasoline that you know has the proper blend.
Fuel Level
Fuel Cap

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3.3Check the air cleaner
1. Loosen the maintenance cover screws and remove the maintenance cover.
2. Remove three air filter retaining screws. Remove the cover and check the element. Clean or replace the
element if necessary.
3. Replace the air cleaner element, and cover. Tighten the screws securely.
4. Replace the maintenance cover and tighten the screws securely.
Never run the engine without the air cleaner element in place. Rapid engine wear will
result from contaminants, such as dust and dirt being drawn through the carburetor into
the engine.
Air Cleaner
Case
Air Cleaner
Element
Air Cleaner
Cover
Air Cleaner
Screw
Maintenance
Cover
Cover
Screw

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4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
4.1Starting the engine
When starting the generator after adding fuel for the first time or after long term storage,
or after running out of fuel, turn the fuel valve to the ON position, then wait for 10 to 20
seconds before starting the engine.
Before starting the engine, disconnect any load from theAC receptacles.
1. Turn the fuel valve lever to the “ON” position.
2. If the fuel tank was empty it may be necessary to pump the primer bulb 15 to 20 times to get fuel to the
carburetor.
3. Push the engine switch on the control panel to the “ON” position.
4. Move the choke lever to the “START” position.
5. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt, then pull briskly out.
6. Move the choke lever to the “RUN”position after the engine warms up.
Do not allow the starter grip to snap back. Return it slowly by hand.
Do not let the starter rope rub against the generator body or the rope will wear out
prematurely.
Starter Grip
Fuel Valve
Engine Switch
Choke Lever
Start
Running

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4.2High altitude operation
At higher altitudes, the standard carburetor air-fuel mixture will be excessively rich. Performance will decrease,
and fuel consumption will increase. Engine horsepower will decrease approximately 3.5% for each 1000 feet
(305 m) increase in altitude.
4.3Operating at extreme temperatures
High temperature adversely affects generator operation. Generator performance will decrease 1% for each 10°F
(5.5°C) increase in temperature above 85°F (29°C). The normal operating range of this generator is 0° to 113° F
(-18° to 45°C). Although the generator can operate at 0°F (-18°C) it will be necessary to use a lower viscosity
engine oil such as SAE 0W-40. Synthetic oil is recommended for temperatures below 32° F. Even with cold
weather oils, the engine will be more difficult to start.
In very cold weather the engine will actually take longer than normal to warm up because
the oil is thinner and there is less internal friction throughout the warm up period. Once
the engine reaches operating temperature 0W-40 oil is no thinner than straight 40W.
Do not operate the generator when the ambient temperature is below 0°F (-18°C).
Do not operate the generator when the ambient temperature exceeds 113°F (45°C).
(-18° C)
(0° C)
(45° C)

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4.4Generator use
Be sure to ground the generator when loads are connected.
To prevent electrical shock from faulty appliances, the generator should be grounded.
Connect a length of heavy cable between the generator's ground terminal and an
external ground source.
Connections for standby power to a building's electrical system must be made by a
qualified electrician and must comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes.
Improper connections can allow electrical current from the generator to back feed into
the utility lines. Such back feed may electrocute utility company workers or others who
contact the lines during a power outage. When utility power is restored, the generator
may explode, burn, or cause fires in the building's electrical system.
Do not connect the generator to an automatic transfer device. Severe damage to the
inverter module may result.
Indoor use of a generator can kill quickly. Generators should be used outdoors only.
The total wattage of all appliances connected must be considered.
Do not exceed the current limit specified for any one receptacle.
Do not connect the generator to a household circuit. This could cause damage to the
generator or to electrical appliances in the house.
Do not modify this generator or use it for purposes other than its intended use.
Do not connect an extension to the exhaust pipe.
When an extension cord is required, be sure to use a rubber sheathed flexible cord.
Also make sure to use the proper size and length cord.
16 Gauge Cords - a 16 gauge cord between 0 and 100 feet long will safely
handle tool and appliance loads up to 10 amps.
14 Gauge Cords - a 14 gauge cord between 0 and 50 feet long will safely handle
tool and appliance loads between 10 and 15 amps.
12 Gauge Cords –a 12 gauge cord between 50 and 100 feet will safely handle
tool and appliance loads between 10 and 15 amps.
Keep the generator away from other electric cables or wires such as commercial power
supply lines.
The DC receptacle can be used while the AC power is in use. If you use both at the same
time, be sure not to exceed the total power for AC and DC.
Most appliance motors require more than their rated wattage for start-up.

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4.5AC application
1. Start the engine and make sure only the output run indicator light (Green) comes on.
2. Confirm that the appliance to be used is switched off before plugging into the control panel.
Be sure that all appliances are in good working order before connecting them to the
generator. If an appliance begins to operate abnormally, becomes sluggish, or stops
suddenly, turn off the generator engine switch immediately. Disconnect the appliance and
examine it for signs of malfunction.
Run Light (Green)
120V ~ 20
Receptacle

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4.6Output and Overload Lights
Substantial overloading that continuously lights the overload light (Red) may damage the
generator. Marginal overloading that temporarily lights the overload light (Red) may
shorten the service life of the generator.
The output indicator light (Green) will remain illuminated during normal operating conditions.
If the generator is overloaded (in excess of 500 W), or if there is a short in the connected appliance, the output
indicator light (Green) will go out, the overload indicator light (Red) will turn on and current to the connected
appliance will be shut off.
1. Remove all electrical loads from the generator and investigate the cause of the overload.
2. To reset the overload condition (Red light), stop and restart the generator. The (Green) indicator light should
be illuminated within 10 seconds.
Before connecting or reconnecting an appliance to the generator, check that it is in good
order, and that its electrical rating does not exceed that of the generator.
When an electric motor is started, the overload indicator light (Red) may go on
momentarily while the output indicator light (Green) remains on. This is not a problem as
long as the overload light only flickers on briefly.
Overload
Light
120V ~ 20A
Receptacle

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4.7DC application
The DC receptacle may be used for charging 12 volt lead acid batteries only. Other types
of batteries may burst causing personal injury or damage.
To prevent the possibility of creating a spark near the battery, connect the charging cable
first to the battery being charged, and then to the generator. When charging is complete,
disconnect the cable first at the generator.
Before connecting charging cables to a battery that is installed in a vehicle, disconnect
the vehicle’s ground battery cable. Reconnect the vehicle's ground battery cable after the
charging cables are removed. This procedure will prevent the possibility of a short circuit
and sparks if you make accidental contact between a battery terminal and the vehicle's
frame or body.
Connect the positive charging cord to the positive battery terminal. Do not reverse the
charging cables, or serious damage to the generator and/or battery may occur. Physical
injury may also occur.
Do not attempt to start an automobile engine with the generator still connected to the
battery. The generator may be damaged.
Connect the positive charging cord to the positive battery terminal. Do not reverse the
charging cables, or serious damage to the generator and/or battery may occur.
DC operation is only intended for the purpose of charging batteries. It should not be used
to power DC equipment.
1. For DC operation, with the engine running, turn the economy switch to the “OFF”position.
2. Connect the charging cables to the battery terminals first.
3. Connect the charging cables to the DC receptacle of the generator last.
Economy Switch

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Batteries give off explosive gases; keep spark, flames and cigarettes away. Provide
adequate ventilation when charging.
Batteries contain sulfuric acid (electrolyte). Contact with skin or eyes may cause severe
burns. Wear protective clothing and a face shield.
If electrolyte gets on your skin, flush with water.
If electrolyte gets in your eyes, flush with water for at least 15 minutes and call a
physician immediately.
Electrolyte is poisonous.
-If swallowed, drink large quantities of water or milk and follow with milk of
magnesia or vegetable oil and call a physician immediately.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
The DC receptacle may be used while the AC power is in use.
An overloaded DC circuit will trip the DC circuit breaker. If this happens reset the circuit
breaker to resume operation.
4.8Low oil alarm system
The low oil alarm system is designed to prevent engine damage caused by an insufficient amount of oil in the
crankcase. Before the oil level in the crankcase falls below a safe limit, the low oil alarm system will automatically
shut down the engine (the engine switch will remain in the “ON”position).
If the low oil alarm system shuts down the engine, the low oil alarm indicator light (Red) will come on when you
pull the starter rope and the engine will not run. If this occurs add enough of the approved engine oil to raise the
level to the top line on the dipstick.
Battery Charge Circuit Breaker
Low Oil Light (Red)

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4.9Economy switch
Economy switch “ON”: This position is recommended to minimize fuel consumption and noise while in
operation. Engine speed is kept at idle automatically when the electrical load is disconnected and returns to the
proper speed to match the power of the electrical load when the load is reconnected.
The economy system does not operate effectively if the electrical appliance requires
rapid on-off cycling of power.
When high electrical loads are connected simultaneously, turn the economy switch to the
“OFF” position to reduce voltage fluctuation or shutdown.
In DC operation, turn the economy switch to the “OFF” position.
Economy switch “OFF”: The economy system does not operate. Engine runs at the rated load (RPM).
4.10 Stopping the engine
To stop the engine in an emergency
1. Push the engine switch on the control panel to the “OFF”position.
In an emergency, pushing the engine switch on the control panel to the “OFF”position
will automatically stop the engine with or without a load. However, repeatedly stopping
the generator without disconnecting all loads can cause damage to the generator or
appliances.
Continually stopping the generator with a load applied can lead to damage of the control
module.
Normal shutdown
1. Turn off the connected equipment and disconnect from the generator.
2. Push the engine switch to the “OFF” position.
3. Turn the fuel valve to the “OFF” position.
Economy
Switch
Engine Switch

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5. MAINTENANCE
The purpose of the maintenance and adjustment schedule is to keep the generator in the best possible operating
condition.
Inspect or service as scheduled in the table below.
There are no special operating instructions for the break in period for the engine, but the oil should be changed
between the first 4 to 6 hours of operation to remove any manufacturing debris or contamination.
Shut off the engine before performing any maintenance. If the engine must be run, make
sure the area is well ventilated. The exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas.
Use genuine POWERHOUSE® parts or their equivalent. The use of replacement parts
which are not of equivalent quality may damage the generator.
When repairing or replacing components of the emission control system, only use parts
known to comply with EPA standards.
5.1Emission control system
Emission source
Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides (NOX), and hydrocarbons. It is very important to control
the emissions of NOXand hydrocarbons as they are a major contributor to air pollution. Carbon monoxide is a
poisonous gas. The emission of fuel vapors is a source of pollution as well. The POWERHOUSE® generator
engine utilizes a precise air-fuel ratio and emission control system to reduce the emissions of carbon monoxide,
NOX, hydrocarbons, and evaporative fuel emissions.
Regulation
Your engine has been designed to meet current Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air
Resources Board (CARB) clean air standards. The regulations dictate that the manufacturer provides operation
and maintenance standards regarding the emission control system. Tune up specifications are provided in the
Specifications section and a description of the emission control system may be found in the appendix to this
manual. Adherence to the following instructions will ensure your engine meets the emission control standards.
Modification
Modification of the emission control system may lead to increased emissions. Modification is defined as the
following:
Disassembling or modifying the function or parts of the intake, fuel, or exhaust system.
Modifying or destroying the speed governing function of the generator.
Engine faults that may affect emission
Any of the following faults must be repaired immediately. Consult with your authorized POWERHOUSE® service
center for diagnosis and repair:
Hard starting or shut down after starting.
Unstable idle speed.
Shut down or backfire after applying an electrical load.
Backfire.
Black smoke and/or excessive fuel consumption.
Replacement parts and accessories
The parts making up the emission control system supplied with the POWERHOUSE® engine have been
specifically approved and certified by the regulatory agencies. You can trust that replacement parts supplied by
POWERHOUSE® have been manufactured to the same production standard as the original parts. The use of
replacement parts or accessories which are not designed by POWERHOUSE® may affect the engine emission
performance. The manufacturers of replacement parts and accessories have the responsibility to guarantee that
their replacement products will not adversely affect emission performance.