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Portable Generator House Backup Grounding
I have pondered this myself as I find the documentation that came with genset confusing. According to my dealer if I am connecting the generator with a 30 amp 4 prong plug to a generator subpanel I do not have to ground the generator with a ground stake at the genset.
My research finds the following:
Generator Grounding
When are Ground Rods Required at Portable Generators?
Portable generators are often used for backup power at traffic signals, buildings, structures and special events. Ground rods (grounding electrodes) are only required if the generator is a separately derived system. (For the complete text of sections cited please see the 2002 NEC)
What is a Separately Derived System?
The NEC in Article 100 defines a Separately Derived System as:
Separately Derived System. A premises wiring system whose power is derived from a battery, from a solar photovoltaic system, or from a generator, transformer, or converter windings, and that has no direct electrical connection, including a solidly connected grounded circuit conductor, to supply conductors originating in another system. [See Fig 1]
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Portable Generator House Backup Grounding
This is a Separately derived System
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Portable Generator House Backup Grounding
Not Separately Derived System
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Portable Generator House Backup Grounding
Interesting discussion. A little off topic: I have a small Generac generator. The 3-prong outlets have an open ground. That is, the neutral and ground terminals are open when you would assume and expect them to have no resistance between them. My first generator had this condition and a replacement generator from Generac has the same situation. Can any of the forum members use a common electrical tester on their own generator and see if it checks out OK or if it also shows an open ground? I don't have a transfer switch for use at home. In a blackout situation I would connect the "floating ground" terminal on the generator with the house ground rod. The generator could be connected into the house wiring, I assume, if (and only if) I open the main circuit breaker to prevent voltage from entering the commercial electrical grid. When camping, I would like to tie the generator to a GFCI device, a temporary ground rod and the chassis of my RV. I've asked Generac for help with the wiring diagram. The open ground on their generator has me concerned since this doesn't meet electrical codes and a GFCI will not "set" if there is a wiring error. Your ideas?
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12-13-2014, 16:32 
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