Run 240 v well pump from 120 v genset w/transformer?
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Run 240 v well pump from 120 v genset w/transformer?
I need to be able to run my 1/2 hp 240 volt submersible pump from my generator, which unfortunately only puts out a 120 volt supply. I have a heavy step-up 120-to-240 transformer. Can I use that to juice it up to 240 volts and run the pump? Or will there be problems with phasing or other things I don't understand too well ?
#2
Welcome to the forums! Before getting into possibilities, is this going to be a permanent connection, or only in an emergency? If the latter, how much trouble are you going to go through to revert it back to 240 volt house current once the emergency is over? Seems like a lot of work. I'd get a larger generator with dual voltage outputs.
A 1/2 hp motor will really tax the generator. What is the wattage output on the genny?
A 1/2 hp motor will really tax the generator. What is the wattage output on the genny?
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120 v genset for 240 v pump
Thanks for replying.
Yes, it would be only for emergencies, not permanent. I realize I would have to do some adaptor-rigging, etc. in order to get it hooked up. The genset seems adequate, though: 2,000 watt inverter-type, very quiet and economical to run. I also have a big diesel genset (12kw). But it is very noisy, and loves its diesel. I was uncertain, though, about whether or not it could be done at all. I asked one electrician about it, and he didn't think it would run the pump- because only one phase line rather than two were being used, if I understood him properly.
Yes, it would be only for emergencies, not permanent. I realize I would have to do some adaptor-rigging, etc. in order to get it hooked up. The genset seems adequate, though: 2,000 watt inverter-type, very quiet and economical to run. I also have a big diesel genset (12kw). But it is very noisy, and loves its diesel. I was uncertain, though, about whether or not it could be done at all. I asked one electrician about it, and he didn't think it would run the pump- because only one phase line rather than two were being used, if I understood him properly.
#5
I have doubts about your little generator being able to start the pump motor.
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If this is a deep well (submersible) pump the starting draw could be six times the running current. Even though, the little inverter gennie might work as they seem to have quite a bit of overload capacity for a second or two. Since you already have the transformer (at least two kVa in size, I hope) I'd say give it a try.
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Thanks for you members' comments, they are helpful. Other than gross capacity issues, I couldn't see why it wouldn't work either. The pump isn't working against much of a head: probably about 40 feet, so I'll give it a try and update this thread when I see what happens.
#8
I'll give it a try and update this thread when I see what happens.