Westinghouse WGen12000DF, Service Manual

16 | Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment, LLC

OPERATION

OPERATION

GENERATOR LOCATION

Read and understand all safety information before starting 

the generator. 

NEVER operate the generator inside any building, including 

garages, basements, crawlspaces, sheds, enclosure, or 

compartment, including the generator compartment of a 

recreational vehicle.  

Electrocution hazard. Never use the generator in a 

location that is wet or damp. Never expose the generator 

to rain, snow, water spray, or standing water while in 

use. Protect the generator from all hazardous weather 

conditions. Moisture or ice can cause a short circuit 

or other malfunction in the electrical circuit. Using a 

generator or electrical appliance in wet conditions, such 

as rain or snow, or near a pool or sprinkler system, or 

when your hands are wet, could result in electrocution

Fire hazard. Only operate the generator on a solid, level 

surface. Operating the generator on a surface with loose 

material such as sand or grass clippings can cause debris 

to be ingested by the generator that could block cooling 

vents or the air intake system. Allow the generator to 

cool for 30 minutes before transport or storage.

The generator should be on a flat, level surface at all times 

(Even while not in operation). The generator must have 

at least 5 ft. (1.5 m) of clearance from all combustible 

material. 
Do not operate the generator in the back of a SUV, camper, 

trailer, truck bed (regular, flat, or otherwise), under stairs, 

next to walls or buildings, or in any other location that will 

not allow for adequate cooling of the generator and/or the 

muffler. DO NOT contain generators during operation.

Asphyxiation hazard. Place the generator in a well-

ventilated area. DO NOT place the generator near vents 

or intakes where exhaust fumes could be drawn into 

occupied  or  confined  spaces.  Carefully  consider  wind 

and air currents when positioning the generator.

GROUNDING

Shock hazard. Failure to properly ground the generator 

can result in electric shock.

NOTICE

Only use grounded 3-prong extension cords, tools, and 

appliances, or double-insulated tools and appliances.

The generator neutral is bonded to the frame. There is a 

permanent conductor between the generator (stator wire) 

and the frame. If this generator will be used only with cord 

and plug equipment connected to the receptacles mounted 

on the generator, National Electric Code does not require 

that the unit be grounded. However, other methods of 

using the generator may require grounding to reduce the 

risk of shock or electrocution. 

Before  using  the  ground  terminal,  consult  a  qualified 

electrician, electrical inspector, or local agency having 

jurisdiction for local codes or ordinances that apply to the 

intended use of the generator.

DISCONNECTING THE BONDED NEUTRAL

Removing the bonded neutral disables the GFCI protection 

from the 5-20R receptacles. The bonded neutral should 

only be removed under specific circumstances. Consult a 

qualified electrician to determine if your situation requires 

disconnecting the bonded neutral. 

1. 

Remove the alternator cover. 

2. 

Remove the bonded jumper wire and reinstall the nut.