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USING YOUR GENERATOR
Table 3 - Power Cord Requirement Guide
CONNECTING ELECTRICAL DEVICES
1. Before connecting electrical devices, allow the generator to run for a few minutes to stabilize the speed and
voltage output.
2. Select the device with the highest wattage, and make sure it is turned off. Plug the device into the matching
generator outlet and then turn the device on. Allow the engine to stabilize.
3. Repeat step 2 to plug in each additional device. Do not attempt to plug in or start multiple devices at the same
time.
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
The circuit breakers protect the individual AC circuits. The 20A AC circuit breaker will activate when the NEMA
5-20R outlets exceed 20A. The 30-amp AC circuit breaker will activate when the NEMA L14-30R outlet exceeds
30A. When the circuit breaker activates, turn off and disconnect the device from its respective outlet, and press
the circuit breaker to reset.
SOME NOTES ABOUT POWER CORDS
Long or thin extension cords can drain the power provided to your electrical devices. Refer to the following chart
in determining the necessary gauge extension cord for each of your devices. Round up to the higher amperage in
the chart to maximize safety.
*NR = Not Recommended
Device Requirements
Max. Cord Length (ft) by Wire Gauge
Amps
Watts
(120V)
Watts (240V)
#8 wire
#10 wire
#12 wire
#14 wire
#16 wire
2.5
300
600
NR
NR
NR
375
250
5
600
1200
NR
NR
300
200
125
7.5
900
1800
NR
350
200
125
100
10
1200
2400
NR
250
150
100
50
15
1800
3600
NR
150
100
65
NR
20
2400
4800
175
125
75
50
NR
25
3000
6000
150
100
60
NR
NR
30
3600
7200
125
65
NR
NR
NR
40
4800
9600
90
NR
NR
NR
NR
WARNING!
Generator should
only
be connected to electrical devices, either directly or with an extension
cord. NEVER CONNECT TO A BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM without a qualified electrician and connected to
a transfer switch as a separately derived system. Such connections must comply with local electrical laws and
codes. Failure to comply can create a back-feed, which may result in serious injury or death to utility workers.
NOTE:
For power outages, permanently installed, stationary generators are better suited for providing backup
power to your home. Even a properly connected portable generator can become overloaded. This may result
in overheating or stressing the machine’s components, possibly leading to generator failure.