Generator Safety and Procedures Generator Rental: Generator usage will be as agreed upon in advance and terms/rates stated on the standard boat rental agreement form. The generator key will be given to you upon receipt of the signed rental agreements and payment in full. Electricity: The houseboat utilizes an eco-friendly, self sufficient, 12volt inverter/battery storage solar power system to power everything except the air conditioning units (A/C usage requires either shore power or generator usage – see below). Under normal usage, this state of the art electrical system will furnish all necessary power, and recharge itself. The exterior 110v outlet on the upper rear deck is a separate exterior GFI protected outlet, and useful for safe upper deck lighting. After an unusually cloudy day, or with heavy electrical usage – if the inverter senses a lowered state of output – the 110 volt outlets will shut down, but the 12v ceiling lighting will remain powered. Again, conservation is the key! Generator Operation: The generator unit is very quite, but please be courteous to others with regard to generator noise. Be sure A/C units are in off position, and plugged into the receptacle located in the “Generator” position. The generator is located on the upper deck, in front of the steering console. The control panel is on the right side, and the gas tank/cap is on the top of the unit. Carefully remove the cloth cover and store in the “Lifejacket” box. Turn the fuel valve lever to the on position. Leave eco switch in “on” position. Pull out the choke knob, insert the key and turn to start. Slowly push in the choke key after the engine starts. To turn off generator, turn key to off. Do not put cover back over generator until it has completely cooled down. The generator will run approx. 18 total hours on eco setting on one tank of gasoline. Do not refuel generator until unit has completely cooled down. Air Conditioner Operation: The air conditioner units will only run on generator power. Generator should be running prior to turning on the air conditioners. The A/C units are the largest consumer of power, and we recommend they should only be run at night for comfortable sleeping. Close all windows and window shades and turn unit on an hour or so before bedtime to cool down the houseboat for sleeping. If only using the rear bedroom area for sleeping, closing the privacy curtain will allow the rear unit to quickly cool the room, and reduce generator fuel consumption. After generator is running, turn A/C on/off button to “on” position. Set fan speed to “high”. Turn thermostat knob to coldest position. After desired cabin temperature is reached, turn back thermostat knob slowly until you hear compressor cut off. The fan will remain running and compressor will automatically cycle to maintain this temperature. Please respect our property and belongings and treat them like your own. We hope you enjoy your trip, please feel free to contact us should you need anything. |