Portable Generator question
#1
11-09-17, 12:40 PM
Portable Generator question
I'm not very electrically inclined. I have a 5500w generator with a 30a output. I also have a switch with a 20a input. Would it be safe to make a cable 30a to 20a?, and what type of wire should I use. I'm guessing 10-4. Thank you!
#2
11-09-17, 02:30 PM
Are you saying you have a 20A transfer switch? Your 5500 watt gen at best will handle 20A even though the outlet is rated at 30A. The over current protection on the 30A outlet should be 30A so you should not use a 20A rated switch.
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#4
11-09-17, 05:43 PM
Twenty or lesser amp equipment, ordinary lights, appliances, 12 or thinner gauge wiring, switches, etc. are not supposed to be connected to a 30 amp source or corded plug without an appropriate 20 amp or lesser rated fuse or breaker in between, for example in a subpanel.
You should not create, possess, or use a plain straight through wire adapter (or extension cord) with a 30 amp plug and (female) receptacle(s) of lesser amperage rating.
Use the 15/20 amp receptacles on your generator for direct connection of 20 or 15 amp equipment.
You should not create, possess, or use a plain straight through wire adapter (or extension cord) with a 30 amp plug and (female) receptacle(s) of lesser amperage rating.
Use the 15/20 amp receptacles on your generator for direct connection of 20 or 15 amp equipment.
#6
11-13-17, 08:13 AM
Unfortunately, my generator does not have a 20am output. I did get it to work by using 2 extensions cords from the generator to 2 outlets, one on each side of the panel. I just had to make male to male connectors on each one. I was just hoping to use the switch. Seems safer to me. Seems like I would need to replace the switch to be able to use it safely.
Thank You for the input.
Thank You for the input.
#9
11-13-17, 02:22 PM
If you have a true 20A transfer switch with 20A twist lock inlet, then you can use 10-3 cord with 30A male on generator side and 20A female on house side. If that transfer switch is actually 20A breakers, then even better.
30A output rating will not matter since your circuits are protected with breakers on your house panel and the cord between your house and generator is rated for 30A.
30A output rating will not matter since your circuits are protected with breakers on your house panel and the cord between your house and generator is rated for 30A.
