re: Need some advice on Generator power

Although I recommend against it, here's the basics of the ghetto rigged generator setup.
If you don't know what you're doing, avoid this setup.

1. Rig up a cord like this with male plugs on both ends.

2. SHUT THE MAIN BREAKER OFF BEFORE PLUGGING IN (this will prevent backfeeding and killing linemen)

3. Make sure there's zero chance that plug will come out of the dryer outlet. (zip ties, duct tape, etc.)

4. ALWAYS plug the dryer plug in before connecting the generator end.

5. ALWAYS turn off generator and unplug the generator end before unplugging the dryer outlet end.




That's the hood rat way to do it.







Here's the proper way to have a generator connection:

If you want to run Central AC, you'll need a better setup.
Its the startup inrush current that generators can't handle. Install a soft start and it will run just fine.

Ideal setup is to have an electrician add a box to your breaker box like this. Then simply plug and go



Also install a deadman plate on your breaker box. This prevents the generator breaker from being turned on without the main being turned off first.

quote:

---

My family cannot stand the power being off much longer.

---

How long has it been off?

Here’s your response from chatGPT:

Running a portable generator to power essential appliances during an outage requires careful planning to avoid safety hazards. Here’s a breakdown of how to safely power your home with the 6kW generator, especially given your desire to run an electric water heater, refrigerator, and some lights.

### Key Considerations:
1. **Total Load Capacity**: Your generator can supply 6kW, which is 6000 watts. The electric water heater (4.5kW) will take up most of this capacity, leaving only 1.5kW (1500W) for the refrigerator and lights.
- **Refrigerator**: 0.5kW (500W).
- **Lights**: Assume 100-200W depending on the number of lights.

2. **Electric Water Heater**:
- **Reducing Load**: Your friend’s suggestion of deactivating one heating element could work. Most electric water heaters have two heating elements that don’t run at the same time, but each draws 4.5kW. If you disconnect one, you could cut the power draw to around 2.25kW, which leaves more room for other devices.
- **Voltage Requirement**: The water heater requires **240V**, so you will need a 240V output from the generator. Most portable generators have a 240V outlet for this purpose.

3. **Extension Cords**:
- **Gauge Requirements**: A 6kW generator produces significant power, and to safely transmit that, you’ll need **10-gauge extension cords**, particularly for high-load devices like the water heater. **12 or 14-gauge cords** are too thin for high-power appliances, and using them could cause overheating and fire.

4. **Transfer Switch or Direct Plug-In**: For safety, it’s highly recommended to use a **transfer switch** to avoid backfeeding power, which could electrocute utility workers or cause damage. If you plan to plug in appliances directly, use appropriate heavy-duty cords rated for the power you're drawing.

### Steps to Safely Power Your House:

1. **Generator Setup**:
- Position the generator outdoors, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, or vents to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
- Make sure the generator is grounded.

2. **Turn Off Circuit Breakers** (if using a transfer switch) or unplug all appliances before starting the generator.

3. **Determine Load**: Before powering devices, add up the wattage of each device you want to run. In your case:
- Refrigerator: 0.5kW
- Lights: ~0.2kW
- Modified Water Heater: 2.25kW (if using one element)

Total: About 3kW, which is safe under the 6kW generator capacity.

4. **Connect Appliances**:
- Use **10-gauge extension cords** for the water heater and larger appliances like the fridge. Connect them directly to the generator’s appropriate outlets.
- If using a transfer switch, switch it to the generator power supply.

5. **Managing Load**: Don’t run all appliances at once. Start with the refrigerator and lights. Once those are steady, turn on the water heater (or modify its elements as needed).

6. **Disconnect Safely**:
- When done, turn off the appliances and the generator before unplugging or switching back to utility power.

If you’re unsure about deactivating a heating element, consulting with an electrician would be wise. They could confirm the proper method and also suggest whether running a water heater on your generator is feasible long-term.

### Important Safety Notes:
- **Do not use thin extension cords** for high-power devices. Always match the cord gauge to the appliance load.
- **Avoid backfeeding** electricity into your home’s wiring unless you have a properly installed transfer switch.
- Monitor the generator for overheating and follow all safety guidelines in the manual.

Let me know if you'd like further clarification on any of these steps!

I made my 22 hour outage with a 2350W inverter generator. Ran my two refrigerators and a box fan overnight. Ran the two freezers for 4 hours today. Temperature wasn’t bad outside, left a few windows open. Took a hot shower this morning, hot water heater tank holds a lot of water and it’s not getting cold quickly (blanketed) so the hot water held up overnight. When the power was restored at 2:30 this afternoon, we had burned less than 4 gallons of gas and took care of more food than most large families have in their house (venison and fish).