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Honda Generator Operation Guide
This guide also applies to just about any portable generator regardless of brand.
Follow these basic tips for operation, starting, stopping, transporting, and storing and your generator will be safe and ready to go when an emergency arrives.

For proper operation of your generator, make sure that it is placed in an open space. Proper ventilation is vital to its use and your safety. Also keep the generator dry. The generator should be placed on a firm, level surface as well. Don’t forget to run (exercise) your portable generator at least once a month. This accomplishes a couple of things. It lubricates the engine by circulating oil, it runs fresh gas through the carburetor and it works to recharge the battery. All of these things help to insure that the generator will start when you really need it in an emergency.   To Operate your Generator:   Check the fuel level before starting the generator.   Honda engines are engineered and designed to run on unleaded fuel. Use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher. This will reduce deposit build up on valves, spark arrestor, muffler and spark plugs.   Never use stale or contaminated gasoline or an oil/gas mixture. Avoid getting dirt or water in the fuel tank.   Be sure to refuel when the engine is off and in a well-ventilated area. Gasoline is extremely flammable and is explosive under certain conditions. Do not over fill, and make sure that any spilled fuel has been wiped off before starting the generator.   The fuel tank cap vents the tank, so be sure to store your generator in a well-ventilated area. For example, don’t store the generator below the deck of a boat because gasoline fumes can collect and ignite.   Check the oil level and air filter.   Make sure the voltage selector is where it needs to be (120v "only" or 120/240v). If a 240V appliance is connected to the 4-prong receptacle, the switch must be in the "120/240V" position (a series connection). If a 120V appliance ONLY is being connected to any of the 120V 3-prong receptacles, select the "120V ONLY" position (for a parallel connection). The benefit of this is to get maximum power from the 120V 30A locking receptacle.   Move the generator outside.   Make sure the system is grounded according to local regulations. See local electrician.   Connect the transfer switch if powering a house.   Connect the power cord to the generator.   Turn the circuit breaker off before starting the generator. Then allow the generator the warm up before turning the circuit breaker on. To Stop your Generator:   Turn the circuit breaker off.   Turn the engine switch off.   Turn the fuel valve off. Transporting and Storing your Generator   When transporting or storing the generator, be sure to turn the fuel valve OFF. If left on, gasoline may get into the engine crankcase and dilute the engine oil, thus reducing the lubrication properties of the oil and causing severe engine damage. If you are going to store your generator for more then 2 months, drain the fuel from the carburetor float bowl, drain the fuel from the sediment cup, and then add the correct proportion of fuel conditioner to the tank and top it off.