Generator sizing issues?

95jersey wrote:

time2roll wrote:
Exactly what generator do you have? Does it include a 30 amp 120v RV connector?

The 4000/3200 HF generators I see split power between a 120/240 twistlock outlet and some 5-20 outlets. Either way you might be only getting half the power due to the split nature of the design.

I have this generator.

https://www.harborfreight.com/engines-generators/gas-engine-generators/4000-max-starting3200-running-watts-65-hp-212cc-generator-epa-iii-with-gfci-outlet-protection-63080.html

Yeah, time2roll has hit the nail on the head.

This gen can ONLY supply ONE HALF the rated output on each of the Duplex 120V outlets.

You can ONLY get 1600W or 13.3A from EACH of the 120V Duplex outlets.

You have to think of this gen as having two 120V windings which in order to supply 240V are wired in series fashion (think like a battery where you wire two 6V batteries plus to negative to get 12V).

You ARE lucky that you have been able to operate your A/C from this gen.

NO, you cannot "combine" those outlets to get full rated wattage on 120V only without a MAJOR REWIRE OF THE GEN HEAD.

This IS an issue with any gen which has 240/120 capability that does not have a 120V only type of switch like some of the Champion gens.

Moving up to a higher wattage gen may not help unless you go to the 8750W gen at $599.. I CAN assure you that you DO NOT WISH TO GO WITH THE 8750W gen. It IS LOUD, HEAVY AND THIRSTY.

I have one of these 8750W gens for my whole house power backup, it weighs 235 empty, it is so loud that I use very high quality hearing protection when near it and uses about 6 gallons of gas for 10hrs at half load..

This is what you NEED to get in order to get full wattage on 120V..



Much quieter at 57 DB, lighter weight at 99 lbs, runs 11 hrs at 25% load with 2.6 gallon fuel tank.

Currently $769