What gauge extension cord do I need for generator?

The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire! A thick cord can handle more power than a thin one. Therefore, you should choose an extension cord with a lower gauge number (not more than 12 AWG) if you plan to use it with a generator. A thicker look – fatter cord – usually means heavier gauge wires inside.

What size extension cord should you use with a generator?

Sizing your gen-cord is extremely simple. If the MOST POWERFUL OUTLET on your generator is 30-amps (4-prong), you'll need a 30-amp (4-prong) cord. If it's a 30-amp (3-prong) outlet, you'll need a 30-amp (3-prong) cord.

Can I use an extension cord with a power strip on a generator?

Most generators come with a variety of outlets with different voltage and current configurations. If one of them is a standard household outlet (120V and 15A), then yes you can connect a power strip straight into the generator. Just make sure you use an outdoor-rated power strip or extension cord.

What size extension cord do I need to run a refrigerator on a generator?

Move the portable generator to a flat spot in the yard near where the refrigerator is located. Keep the generator at least 10 feet away from the structure and away from canopies, awnings and other overhangs. Plug the pronged end of a 14-gauge extension cord into the power outlet on the generator.

Is a 14 gauge extension cord OK for a refrigerator?

Experts advise that the extension cord must be of the right length, voltage, and rating for the appliance to work properly. With no problem, you can connect your refrigerator to a power strip cord with conductors of 14 gauge or thicker-12 gauge. Most houses use 14 gauge wiring or better.

Champion Tip #52: Using the Correct Extension Cords with a Portable Generator

Is a 12 gauge extension cord good for a refrigerator?

Best Extension Cord for a Refrigerator

Extension cords with a lower gauge number—like 10 or 12 gauges—are considered heavy-duty cords because they have a higher capacity to deliver power. Since the 10-gauge cord is an extra heavy-duty extension, it makes the best choice for big power loads like a refrigerator.

How do I run an extension cord from a generator to my house?

You simply plug the gen cord into the 20- or 30-amp outlet on your generator. The opposite end splits into several household outlets, where you can start connecting additional extension cords safely indoors.

Do I need a special cord for a generator?

You simply select a power cord that matches the most powerful outlet on your generator. So, if you have a 50-amp outlet, you'll need a 50-amp power cord. If you have a 20-amp outlet, you'll need a 20-amp cord. Choosing a lower-amp cord will result in wasted power potential and possible damage to your equipment.

Do I need a surge protector when using a generator?

Though they're incredibly powerful appliances, generators themselves are not entirely immune to major power surges and spikes. For this reason, it is particularly important to install an in-house surge protector.

Can you use 12 gauge extension cord with generator?

The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire! A thick cord can handle more power than a thin one. Therefore, you should choose an extension cord with a lower gauge number (not more than 12 AWG) if you plan to use it with a generator. A thicker look – fatter cord – usually means heavier gauge wires inside.

How long can a 30 amp generator extension cord be?

Generac Cord Specifications

These cords are 10 or 30 feet long and can be used for up to 7500 watts. They are 30 amps and stay flexible even in subzero temperatures. They work with an L14-30 plug and connector, or a (4) 5-20 connector.

What size wire do I need for a 30 amp generator?

The wire size for a 30 Amp 240 volt circuit is 10-gauge or larger because each wire and each circuit breaker may carry up to 30 amps.

What is the difference between 12 gauge and 14 gauge extension cords?

For 100 feet, the 14 gauge cord works for 11-13 Amps, while the 12 gauge cord is best suited for 14-15 amps. If your cord is 150 feet long, the 14 gauge is best suited for 1-7 Amps, whereas the 12 gauge will support 8-10 Amps. This shows that the extension cord's length also plays a part in the power it helps safely.

Can I use a 20 amp cord on a 30 amp generator?

A: You should NOT connect a 30 amp generator to a 20 amp transfer switch, even if the blade configuration on each end would permit, because the 20 amp switch and wire size is too small to carry 30 amps.

Do I need a 30 amp or 50 amp generator?

Generally speaking, if you would like to run your central air conditioner, you will need a 50 amp generator. With that said, I have customers who have powered a small central air conditioner with a 30 amp generator.

Can you use all the outlets on a generator at once?

The best way to get the full power out of your generator's 240V outlet is by using a Generator Power Splitter. A good example of this is our 30Amp to (2) 15/20Amp Power Splitter. Many generators give you a single 240V outlet, and two or three 120V standard household outlets. Each are wired differently in the generator.

Can you plug a generator into a wall socket?

A generator should not be plugged into a wall socket. While it is physically possible to do so, there are substantial risks involved. Not only is it illegal in some areas, but permanent damage could also be done to the home's electrical system by way of backfeeding.

How many watts can a 16 gauge extension cord handle?

As the cord gets longer, the current carrying capacity of the cord gets lower. For example, a 16 gauge extension cord less than 50 feet in length can power a 1625 watt (W) appliance. A 16 gauge cord that is longer than 50 feet in length can only power an appliance up to 1250W.

What is a 14 gauge extension cord good for?

Frequent use cords.

A 14-gauge cord is for medium or frequent duty applications (lawnmowers, power drills, table saws, television sets, etc.). These cords are also great for things like power tools, electric chainsaws, leaf or snow blowers, etc. They can handle larger tools and equipment and heavier use.

Is it OK to run a fridge off an extension cord?

While most small appliances can be plugged in to an extension cord with no problem, that isn't the case with a refrigerator. Refrigerators are huge and need a lot of energy to run and thus a regular extension cord may not be able to take on the job and be a fire hazard to boot.

Will a 1500 watt generator run a fridge?

To start your generator, the motor needs more power to start than it does to run. For example, your 750-watt fridge may have a startup wattage of 1,200 watts. In this case, a 1,500-watt generator would be able to run your refrigerator.

Can I use a 16 gauge extension cord for a refrigerator?

No don't use that 50 or 100 foot orange 16/3 cord from the garage. There should be a tag on the back of the fridge or possibly on its cord. This tag should specify its electrical requirements: some combination of amps, volts, and watts.

Should a freezer be plugged into an extension cord?

GE strongly recommends that an extension cord not be used with a freezer due to the potential safety hazards under certain conditions.