PORTABLE GENERATORS

A growing number of Americans are converting their portable gasoline generators into emergency backup power systems.

The minimum size recommended for home-emergency use is a 5,000-watt generator (starting around $600), which can power multiple appliances for 8 hours.

Portable generators are available on our site and can be shipped anywhere around the country. Retail stores carry them also but they become scarce during a blackout and often it is difficult to find the cords, plugs, transfer switches and other parts needed. Most generators sold in hardware stores are low quality, price cutting types of units. We sell contractor quality, built to last.

We carry several brands of portable generators including: VoltMaster Honda, Yamaha, Baldor, Winco, Onan, Robin and others. For more information on portable generators, Just Click > Portable Generators.

Extension Cords

The most common way to use a portable generator is to place it outdoors, then run an extension cord(s) through an open window or door to the chosen appliance. This approach works well for smaller generators because you can only plug in one or two items. You must connect the item directly unless you use a transfer switch. NOTE: You cannot run a generator indoors, not even in the garage, because a generator makes carbon-monoxide which is odorless an color-less and it can kill you and your family.

Be sure to use appropriately sized power cords to carry the electric load. If you use an undersized cord, you can potentially damage the generator and appliances.

Extension cords are rated by "gauges." For example, the most common size for generator use is 14, 12 and 10 gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the thicker the cord and the more electricity it can carry.

Extension cords have several other drawbacks. First, most extension cords can't be plugged into a furnace, well pump, or ceiling-light fixture. And, if they are placed under rugs or carpets, heat can build up and spark a fire.

For more information on cords, plugs and inlets boxes to use with your transfer switch, Just Click > Cords, Plugs and Outlet Boxes.

To see a summary of issues involving portable generator see Portable vs Stationary generators.