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Generator Purchase . . .

2K views 4 replies 4 participants last post by  sootybuttercup 
#1 ·
I am in the process of selecting a generator that I can use as a back up for the house. I plan to get a smaller one that i can wheel outside and then plug in to a 3 prong or 4 prong receptacle that is on the outside of the house that is wired to a subpanel that I can manually switch to to backfeed the desired circuits.

Here's the question . . .

I figure the ideal generator for me is a 6kw diesel model. I figure 4k running watts are about all I'd ever need.

Problem is, the outlets on the 6kw generator that I am looking at are capped at 30Amp. So there is a standard 20 amp two pole receptacle, a 3 prong 30 Amp, and a 4 prong 30 amp.

Am I correct to think that the most wattage that I will be able to get out of this unit using just one cord will be 30amp x 120V, or 3600 Watts?

The reason this is important is that there is a 4kw generator that is 400$ less that has the same 30amp 4 prong outlet. If I want to set up a single cord plug, does it make any sense to get the larger unit?

All thoughts appreciated.
 
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#4 · (Edited)
Thanks for the answers guys. Dead on.


Time for another?

I'm going to install a 240V 30amp breaker on the main panel and run it out to a subpanel, where I will relocate the 3 or 4 circuits I want to back up.

The generator will feed the subpanel.



EDITED TO REMOVE THE BELOW
[Is it proper and safe to use the breaker switch to shut off the connection before I turn the generator on to prevent feedback into the mains?

Should I also install a manual switch between the two panels?

Is there something else (I want to stick with manual).]

The subpanel I am buying is designed for use with a generator and has a built in transfer switch to prevent back feed, so I am all set.

Thanks.
 
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