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15- ENG
D28469
EXTENSION CORDS
When using an appliance or tool at a
considerable distance from the generator,
a 3-wire extension cord that has a 3-
blade grounding plug and a 3-slot recep-
tacle that accepts the tool's plug MUST
be used in order to reduce the risk of
electrical shock. A cord of adequate size
must be used. Using the following chart
to determine the minimum wire size re-
quired.
An extension cord that
is hot to the touch is
overloaded. Repair or replace
damaged extension cords immediately.
DOUBLE THROW TRANSFER SWITCH
Potential hazards exist when a portable electric generator is
connected to the main electrical supply coming into the house.
It is at that point that the electrical generator could feed back into the utility
company's system causing possible electrocution of workers who are repairing
the electrical lines.
To avoid back feeding of electricity into utility systems, a double-throw transfer
switch must be installed between the generator and utility power. The Double-
Throw Transfer Switch should be installed by a licensed electrician and in com-
pliance with all state and local electrical codes. (When installing a Double-
Throw Transfer Switch, a minimum of 10 gauge wiring must be used.)
The electrician should also install a sub-panel to isolate the circuits you would
want to use during an emergency or electrical power outage. Your generator will
not be large enough to handle the load of all the lights, appliances, TV, etc. at
one time. To select which items to run during the electrical power outage, see
Wattage Calculation section in this manual.
Extension Cord Wire Gauge Chart
Amperage
Cord
Length
Wire
Gauge
Size
1. When amperage exceeds 20 amp; a
12 gauge extension cord should not
be used for long distances.
2. When amperage exceeds 30 amp; a
10 gauge extension cord should not
be used for long distances.
0 to 100 ft.
0 to 100 ft.
12 ga.
10 ga.
1
Up to 20 amp draw
2
Up to 30 amp draw
0 to 100 ft.
8 ga. Up to 40 amp draw
OBTAINING ELECTRICITY FROM THE GENERATOR
There are basically 2 ways to obtain electricity from a generator:
1. Use of extension cords directly from the generator to the appliance, lights,
tools, etc.
2. Use of a double-throw transfer switch installed directly to the main electrical
supply outside of house.