Portable generators have always been handy tools in that they provide a possibility to consume electricity outside the home. You can use it on a hike, charge all kinds of devices while outdoors or on the road, and so on.
Even though these generator types are more than safe, you should still never neglect the rules and, by the way, know how to ground a generator correctly. It is also worth considering that not every portable generator requires grounding, but it remains an essential skill that you should be acknowledged in under certain circumstances.
Do you always need to ground your generator?
In a generator grounding process, it’s worth nothing that no, it’s not always necessary to ground it. More than that, this choice generally depends on the type of generator and how it’s used.
About 80% of modern portable generators do not need this action. On the other hand, the grounding process can become an integral ritual before direct use if you have a rarity.
You can find information about the necessity of grounding provided in the instructions included in the package. Otherwise, if you do not have one, it doesn’t matter! There are two basic variants to examine in case you require a generator grounding rod.
For example, if every device is hooked up directly to the generator via basic sockets, grounding won’t be required. Also, the entire body of the generator should be wrapped with all additional appliances that you’d like to connect to it. These appliances often feature a fuel tub, generator case, and the engine’s most important part. Thus, if both of these circs are present, you’ll need to spend extra time on grounding. The original generator’s metal case perfectly copes with the task of the grounding rod.
Process of grounding your generator
Necessary equipment
- The ground wire has to be made of copper. You will need to establish the connection between the ground rod and that frame itself.
- Wire cleaning tools. You may need them to cut off the insulation from the ground wire.
- Grounding rod.
- Regular wrench to regulate the bolts for a secure fit.
- Medium hammer. Useful to anchor a copper rod in the ground.
- Pliers. They are helpful in looping the ground wire around the rod.
It is also worth considering additional options. For example, if you cannot deal with soil using a hammer, a shovel will come in handy for rocky surfaces. You can also use water if you place the rod in a sandy area and doesn’t stick.
Grounding rod installation process
If you have no doubts about the question “do portable generators need to be grounded” – I suggest going to step-by-step instructions.
From the very beginning, you need to drive or bury the ground rod into the soil. You can use both a hammer and a shovel for this. Select the tool so that you can drive at least 8 feet of the rod into the ground.
It is also worth considering that any residues above the ground must be closed with a protective clip or fitting.
The next step will be establishing a connection between the ground wire and the rod. Before that, you may need to use pliers or special tools to remove the insulation from the wire. Then everything will be easy: just securely wrap the wire around the rod.
The last step in this matter is to search for the grounding bolt on the generator body. Remove it with a wrench and then wrap the ground wire around and fix the bolt again.
