generator transfer switch

dhiggins26

i am hooking a 7000wt. portable generator to a 10 circuit transfer switch next to my main panel. my question is how much distance can i have between trans. switch and power inlet box before i start to lose noticeable currant ? i plan on using #10wire. depending on the location i choose the distance could be from 30' to 120' with a 10' cord between gen. and inlet box. Would a heavier gauge wire [ # 8 ] make any difference ?

Missouri Bound

You have your answer...at 30' you can use the #10...at 120' you can use the #8. Or you can use the #8 for any distance, but at 120' you would suffer some voltage drop. Nothing too severe for temporary usage.

AllanJ

This is what I suggest.

Use the 8 gauge wire/cable if the distance from the generator to the furthest eligible receptacle in the house (not the distance from the generator to the transfer switch) is the 120 feet.

Ignore the fact that 12 or 14 gauge wire goes from the panel to the receptacles.

This is an unscientifically derived suggestion. The voltage drop in the generator line depends on the wire size and the amperes delivered at that moment by the generator. The voltage drop in a branch circuit depends on its wires size and the number of amps drawn at that moment in that branch circuit.

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biggles

i did a #6/4wire on a 100' run between them from a 3500W might even consider #4,but definitly not #10

dhiggins26

thank you, much appreciated, DH

dhiggins26

MB are you saying even with #8 wire there will still be a voltage drop? I just want to be clear on this. thank you, DH

Missouri Bound

I re-read what I typed and I see how it came out a bit confusing. The voltage drop will be minimal with #8, while at that distance you should NOT use #10. 8 is acceptable, and with #8 you will have 1/2 the voltage drop. Sorry for my unclear statement.

dhiggins26

thank you for your response MB,Greatly appreciated!

rrolleston

I would use 6 it will not be too much more.

dhiggins26

thanks rrolleston, I appreciate your response.

rrolleston

Keep in mind you may need to use 6 gauge copper ring terminals with a #10 ring to get all conductors in. I usually solder mine on. Dip wire in flux put connector on crimp it tight heat with torch and add solder.

rrolleston

I almost forgot about this until I looked at another thread. Install a ground where you plan to use the generator. Some 10 gauge stranded and a pipe ground clamp connected to bare metal on your generator frame and an acorn clamp on the rod could probably do this for under 20 bucks.

dhiggins26

thanks again rrolleston,
dave higgins