2120
USING YOUR GENERATOR
Table 3 - Power Cord Requirement Guide
CONNECTING ELECTRICAL DEVICES
1. Before connecting electrical devices, allow the generator to run for a few minutes to stabilize the speed and
voltage output.
2. Select the device with the highest wattage, and make sure it is turned off. Plug the device into the matching
generator outlet and then turn the device on. Allow the engine to stabilize.
3. Repeat step 2 to plug in each additional device. Do not attempt to plug in or start multiple devices at the same
time.
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
The circuit breakers protect the individual AC circuits. The 20A AC circuit breaker will activate when the NEMA
5-20R outlets exceed 20A. The 30-amp AC circuit breaker will activate when the NEMA L14-30R outlet exceeds
30A. When the circuit breaker activates, turn off and disconnect the device from its respective outlet, and press
the circuit breaker to reset.
SOME NOTES ABOUT POWER CORDS
Long or thin extension cords can drain the power provided to your electrical devices. Refer to the following chart
in determining the necessary gauge extension cord for each of your devices. Round up to the higher amperage in
the chart to maximize safety.
*NR = Not Recommended
Device Requirements Max. Cord Length (ft) by Wire Gauge
Amps Watts
(120V)
Watts (240V) #8 wire #10 wire #12 wire #14 wire #16 wire
2.5 300 600 NR NR NR 375 250
5 600 1200 NR NR 300 200 125
7.5 900 1800 NR 350 200 125 100
10 1200 2400 NR 250 150 100 50
15 1800 3600 NR 150 100 65 NR
20 2400 4800 175 125 75 50 NR
25 3000 6000 150 100 60 NR NR
30 3600 7200 125 65 NR NR NR
40 4800 9600 90 NR NR NR NR
WARNING! Generator should only be connected to electrical devices, either directly or with an extension
cord. NEVER CONNECT TO A BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM without a qualified electrician and connected to
a transfer switch as a separately derived system. Such connections must comply with local electrical laws and
codes. Failure to comply can create a back-feed, which may result in serious injury or death to utility workers.
NOTE: For power outages, permanently installed, stationary generators are better suited for providing backup
power to your home. Even a properly connected portable generator can become overloaded. This may result
in overheating or stressing the machine’s components, possibly leading to generator failure.
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