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.

What gauge extension cord do I need for my 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.

Can you use a regular extension cord with a generator?

An extension cord is essential to connect electronic appliances because they can't be plugged directly into the generator outlet. These cords come in different lengths and gauges, but many are not compatible with portable generators.

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.

How many watts can a regular 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.

Extension Cords On A Generator? No, Yes, Mbe...

Which is better 10 gauge or 12 gauge extension cord?

Round down = 10 Gauge. Most devices will do fine with 12 gauge extension cords. Power hungry devices such as lawnmowers, heavy machines, require a lower gauge such as 10AWG. Keep in mind, the lower the gauge means the thicker the cord.

Which is better 12 or 16 gauge extension cord?

When using 100 feet extension cords, you'll need a: 16 Gauge for 1-10 Amps. 14 Gauge for 11-13 Amps. 12 Gauge for 14-15 Amps.

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 you need to ground a generator if you use an extension cord?

To restate that: If you plug a heavy-duty extension cord into the generator and connect that to an appliance, power tool, or device, skip the ground rod.

How long can a generator power cord be?

Generac Cord Specifications

Generac offers a variety of extension cords designed specifically for generator use. 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 gauge extension cord should I use 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.

Is it OK to use an extension cord for a refrigerator?

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.

Can I plug a power strip into my 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.

How do you hook up a portable generator to a house without a transfer?

What happens if you dont ground a generator?

If you don't ground your generator, you risk damaging your electrical equipment as wiring or sensitive circuitry can be affected and might pose a risk of electrocution. Your electrical equipment can also overheat, thereby creating a risk of fire.

What size generator do I need to power my house?

How Big of a Generator Do I Need to Run a House? With a generator rated at 5,000 to 7,500 watts, you can run even the most critical household equipment, including things such as refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits. A 7500-running watt generator can run all these appliances at once.

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 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.

How far can you run 12 gauge extension cord?

For instance, for a length of 25 - 50 feet, a 14 gauge cord will be great for 14-15 Amps, whereas the 12 gauge will work for 16-20 Amps. For 100 feet, the 14 gauge cord works for 11-13 Amps, while the 12 gauge cord is best suited for 14-15 amps.

How many amps can a 16 gauge extension cord handle?

Any 16-gauge cord between 0 and 100 feet long can adequately handle tool loads up to 10 Amps.

Is 16 gauge extension cord heavy duty?

So a 10-12 gauge cord would be a heavier duty cord than a 16-gauge cord, which would be a lightweight cord typically used for less energy demanding applications.

How do I choose an extension cord?

Choosing the best outdoor extension cord or indoor cord relies on understanding how amperage, cord length and gauge ratings work together. Each one of these attributes affects the performance and power of an extension cord. Amperage is how much power (or amps) a cord is made to handle.