generator wire size

[7echo]

I am installing an interlock in my panel so I can plug in my generator when needed to run a few circuits.
It is about 75' from where the generator is set up to the panel. I need a cord to run from the generator to the panel. The generator is a 3800/4750 watt unit. It has a typical RV style plug, a duplex 120, and an L-5 receptacle.
What size wire do I need? I am thinking some variety of SO cord but need some guidance.

Thanks.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Your L5 receptacle will have a second number to indicate amps. Likely it is an L5-30. Minimum of 10 gauge, but 8 would be better. If you think you might be buy a 240V generator in the future, buy 4 conductor cordage.

For cordage, look for SJOOW. (300V, oil and waterproof inner and outer insulation. SO or SOOW is 600V rated and more expensive.)

Run a piece of 10-3 NM-B from the panel to the plug on the side of the house. I would use an L14-30. Then make an adapter from L5-30 to L14-30 and short L1 and L2 together. One of your 240V appliance will work, but you will have power on both legs in your house. You should use a 15A 2-pole/240V breaker which can easily be upgraded when you get a larger 240V genertaor.

 

[finn]

I think his 3800 watt generator already has a 240 volt plug. All the generators that size that I’m familiar with have 2 120v and one, 240v, which is sometimes switchable to 120v.

 

[7echo]

I think his 3800 watt generator already has a 240 volt plug. All the generators that size that I’m familiar with have 2 120v and one, 240v, which is sometimes switchable to 120v.

Mine is only 120V...
http://www.cabelas.com/product/OUTDOORSMAN-WATT-GENERATOR/1848057.uts?slotId=0

I got it on sale and though I wanted a 240v model this was the best option for price. The only thing I would want to add is an AC and I am looking at window units or, more likely, a mini-split inverter type AC.
It has been great so far but I am past ready to get all the cords up off the floor during power outages. The house looks like it is under renovation with the cords running everywhere.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I got it on sale and though I wanted a 240v model this was the best option for price. The only thing I would want to add is an AC and I am looking at window units or, more likely, a mini-split inverter type AC.
It has been great so far but I am past ready to get all the cords up off the floor during power outages. The house looks like it is under renovation with the cords running everywhere.

We careful management of your loads, that generator will serve you well ! A window AC or 120V mini-split for one small room will get you through any power outage.

If you do not understand my comments about shorting L1 and L2 then contact an electrician. It is counter-intuitive but safe when combined with a generator interlock.

If you are willing to locate the generator closer to the house plug, say 25', 10 gauge should be adequate. Also you might be able to find a pre-made RV TT30 extension cord for less than the cost of making up your own cord.

 

[finn]

I bit the bullet and ordered a transfer switch kit from Amazon .

It should be here Monday or Tuesday.

The generator I have is a little smaller, at 4050 peak watts, but it should power the well, refrigerator, and a few lights.

The kit cost almost twice what the generator cost, but it has the capability of powering two 240v and four 120v circuits, far more than my $187 Black Friday special generator can support.

Good luck.

 

[pattenp]

I'm assuming you don't want to wire an outside inlet so not to have such a long cord to reach the panel. Is the panel inside or outside?

 

[7echo]

I'm assuming you don't want to wire an outside inlet so not to have such a long cord to reach the panel. Is the panel inside or outside?

Re-reading the old wizards comments and seeing your comment made me think about that option.

Instead of making a 75' cord from gen to a receptacle under the panel I could run wires from the panel(panel is on the outside of the house to answer your question) to a generator receptacle under the car port where I normally park the generator when in use. If I am not home that would make it easier for the wife to plug in after she shut off the main and set the interlock. Would be a hassle to run the wire and keep it hidden though. I would prefer not to surface mount. But that would mean a 15' foot cable(leaving a little wiggle room to move the generator around under the carport if necessary) instead of a 75'er.
I assume same size wire if doing it this way? I might want to upsize in case I get a larger gen in the future.

 

[7echo]

With Christmas over I am getting back on this project and need some clarification-

To avoid having a 75' long drop cord that has to be deployed I am thinking to follow theoldwizards idea and run wire concealed in the soffit and wall.

If I run from the panel to the carport(75', +/-) what size wire should I use?

With the carport open on the 2 ends I will need a somewhat weather tight box and receptacle to plug the generator into. What should I get for that connection? Is there a better brand or style I should look for?

I will get material from an electrical supply house and not a big box store, if that helps.

 

[finn]

The Reliance Electric kit I bought through Amazon includes a 10 circuit transfer switch, weatherproof outside outlet for mounting on the side of the house , and a short (6’) extension cord to plug into the generator.

It’s rated for up to a 7k generator.

The instructions say to wire the outlet to the lug with 10-3 wire.

I installed mine last week. It’s too cold to test it out, though.