How do I make certain I can get 120 Volt from my 5600 Watt Craftman Genrator?

Question

I purchased a 5600 Watt Craftsman gas generator for my home for the occasional power outage. I have been told by an appliance repairman that appliances suffer and breakdown when there is prolonged used of generators. Is it possible to make certain my generator is delivering 120 Volt to my appliance? I thought the more expensive genarators had built-in invertors that produced constant power but I am now told that this is only for conversion from DC to AC.

Answer 1

You should install a transfer panel to allow safe connection of the generator to your home electrical system. Read more about this on my web page.
http://members.rennlist.org/warren/generator.html

I have a 5500 watt Generac generator for emergency backup use. It has operated several times with no known damage to any appliances. I have no worries about televisions, satellite receivers, computer, microwave oven, fridge, freezer, and lights.

If your generator is operating properly you should have no problems. Monitor its output to ensure it is at 120VAC 60Hz and everything will be fine. I have a Kill-A-Watt meter, purchased from eBay which does a good job for this. It plugs directly into a wall outlet.
http://www.p3international.com/products/special/P4400/P4400-CE.html
http://www.the-gadgeteer.com/killawatt-review.html

It is not unusual for the output voltage from the generator to vary from 120VAC. It could range from about 115V up to about 125V without concern. As you hear the engine load heavily the voltage will vary slightly as will the frequency. If the output frequency is far from 60Hz you will have to adjust the engine speed. This is controlled by a small screw with a spring which connects to the throttle. Again, minor changes are normal as the system operates.

I suspect you may have a Coleman 6500 watt generator rather than a 5600. I think this model has a voltage regulator board which will allow fine tuning of the output voltage.

Answer 2

go to Radio Shack and purchase a hand held multi meter that has an a/c capability. A simple one for about $15 or less. Put the test lads in the wall receptacle and read the actual voltage You should read about 115 volts. There will be a normal voltage drop between the generator and receptacle. anything less than 110 means you hve an overload. Don't pay too much heed to appliance repairmen.

Answer 3

As long as you don't consistently overload the generator, the voltage output will remain well within the operating range of any appliance.

Answer 4

I would go with a smaller generator and battery backup system. Use the generator to change the batteries. Then you can also look into getting solar,wind and other chargers to offset your homes power.

*ummm Why did i get voted down? This would be the only way i can think of to make a buffer to the system where you can't overload your appliances... If you vote me down you should atleast say why.