Generators and earthing

The electrical shock you might get is from static electricity build up. You can also get this type of electrical shock from the interaction on the clothes you are wearing and your car seat.

But generators have plastic handles and rubber feet which are non conductive materials so there should not be a problem. As I said in post 10397 I have never had a problem with my genset or previous gensets.

If you are so worried about an electrical shock then connect an earth stake to the generator for your peace of mind. The manufacturers are just telling you about the earthing so as to cover their arses if by a minute coincidence you suffer a fatal shock from your generator. I would not worry about it.

Cheers,Willem
Little Dip Cons Park S.A.

The RCD is a good idea however it's protction is directional. This device only "looks" down the line from it's point of connection. You lead and appliance and you will be protected but your generator wil not be protected.

Yes an earth stake will reduce the likliness of electrical shocks from the generator.

Sorry for loosing you in my earlier post.

Brett

Here are a couple of links regarding earthing of generators.

Info on earth stake

More info

Sure enough you can earth it and maybe it's a safer option but I run a big ol' Brigg's and Straton 6hp 3.5 KVA Geny and have never eathed it and never even got so much as a little static shock. Should probally go do some work instead of playing on this forum!

I'll bite,

Do you have to earth an inverter? Still produces 240V?

ta, in advance

David

Macca, I posted the earthing problem on a Usenet forum and had a couple of responses.

>>>When ever you create electricity there must be a path to earth. With out the
earth ground you run the risk that you circuit breaker will not trip. Ever
notice that every electrical service in your neighbor hood has an earth
ground? If the utility could get away from using them do you not think that
they would quit spending the money? Not earthing the neutral can cause
voltage imbalances to be created. A lot of people just rely on the frame of
the genset to be in contact with the earth... close enough. It takes no time
to drive an minimum 8 foot ground rod flush with the earth and connect it to
the generators frame to the lug provided. (usually)

Make it safe and make your SO's safe. It only takes about 5 milliamps to
kill. Less in some conditions.

I worked for a university and the city folks set 10 20 kw generators on
tires for temp Christmas lighting not one was grounded. I shut them off and
locked them out. The mayor and the president of the university were in the
electric shop the next morning. I explained the safety issues for the public
and the mayor immediately called his people and they installed the required
ground rods. Christmas lights were dark one night. No big deal compared
with making the headlines all over the world. Personally I do not want to
be on TV.<<<<