Troubleshooting Generator Issues w/ EasyStart

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Troubleshooting Generator Issues

In EasyStart Systems

Inverter generators have just about taken over the entire generator industry. These light weight,

compact and quiet units can supply remarkably large loads with power. Though these units are not

without their limits. EasyStart can help start an air conditioner on a generator but the generator must be

able to keep it running.

EasyStart customers sometimes report the generator will run their unit for a short time then

shut off. Common causes include unrecognized loads, generator failures and atmospheric conditions.

Use this guide along with the Micro-Air generator load test equipment kit (GTLK-001-X00) to help

diagnose these problems with your generator.

Checking the load

All generators have a fixed limit of power they can produce. Many times, these ratings can be

exceeded by electric water heaters, battery chargers, inverters, and even refrigerators operating at the

same time as the air conditioning unit. Be sure all these items are turned off if your generator cannot

support them along with the air conditioning unit.

Measuring the output should always be the first step in diagnosing a problem. Voltage and

current are the two parts of the output that can be tested. The Micro-Air generator load test equipment

kit (GTLK-001-X00) includes a voltmeter, current clamp and test plugs that can help determine if your

generator is up to the task of running an air conditioner.

Setup

The best place to measure the generator performance is at the generator. Setup your test plug

and meters as shown in picture 1. Connect the test plug between the generators output and the cord

that feeds your RV or boat. Set the ammeter for the 60A position for compressors 16K and smaller or

the 200A position for larger compressors. Place the ammeter clamp over just the black wire.

Change the multimeter switch to measure ACV in the AC~ 200 position. Carefully connect the

voltmeter probes into the second socket of the generator. Probes will slide into the slotted connection

of a standard 120V outlet.

Start the generator and allow it to operate for several minutes or as directed by your generator

owner’s manual.

Technical info: Most 120 volt air conditioners draw about 1 amp per 1000 BTU. A 13.5K unit will

draw about 14 amps continuously. The best data is to consult your air conditioners data plate or

owner’s manual for the rating. Then be sure your generator exceeds this minimum requirement.

Summary of content (6 pages)

PAGE 1
Troubleshooting Generator Issues In EasyStart Systems Inverter generators have just about taken over the entire generator industry. These light weight, compact and quiet units can supply remarkably large loads with power. Though these units are not without their limits. EasyStart can help start an air conditioner on a generator but the generator must be able to keep it running. EasyStart customers sometimes report the generator will run their unit for a short time then shut off.
PAGE 2
Picture 1 Generator Test Plugs RV or Shore power cord Current Clamp Volt Meter Testing your RV or boat Plug in your power cord and measure the current the generator is producing WITHOUT the air conditioner running. If all the loads are off, you should read 1 amp or less on the clamp on meter. If you are seeing more than a 1 amp reading on the clamp on meter, locate and turn off any additional loads. Start the air conditioner and check the current load while running.
PAGE 3
Testing the generator Apply resistive loads to the generator like an electric heater, hair drier, heat lamp or other small appliance. A total load equal to the load expected on your generator is required. Technical info: 15-16A is a good value to use for most RV and marine 120V 13.5K to 16K compressors. What you are trying to do is create a resistive load equivalent to the motor load on the generator. Use an appropriate load for compressors rated current draw for this test.
PAGE 4
Problems with air and fuel Air and fuel issues are the most common type of motor problem. Proper maintenance and environmental understanding is helpful to resolving generator issues. Fuels There are many references on the internet on how long gasoline is good when stored. The most aggressive recommendations are to not use fuel over three months old and then only if it has been stored in a sealed container.
PAGE 5
Air Most generators are carbureted and calibrated at sea level. The higher in elevation a generator is operated the thinner the air gets. Often this requires the operator re-jet the carburetor for better performance. Most generator companies offer re-jet kits that are labeled based on the elevation you expect to operate in. Technical info: Engines lose 3% of their power per 1000 feet of elevation due to decreased oxygen content.
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