saltfisher1

What size generators do you have and do you have a hook up for it through your breaker box?.....I have a set-up the requires me to flip off my main breaker then unscrew thebreaker switchon a generator breaker that will let my 15000 watt generatorput power to the house....The screw is a safety deal....The 15000 watt generator is enough to put power to all plugs but you sure cant run the central A/C....Now that the price of gas is up I'm thinking about trading it off for 2 or 3 smaller ones...It can use 16 gallons in 10 hrs on a half load.

Telum Pisces

What you need is for me to come out and install you a transfer switch. See this thread:

http://www.pensacolafishingforum.com...ransfer+switch

I simply have a single 5500 watt generator. I run two refigerators, stand up freezer, 5000 BTU window ACUnit, and lights and fans as I need them. And I can use the TV andcomputeras I need it as well. Granted, everything can not be turned on at once.You just have to make sure to turn stuff off as you don't need it. But my food stays cold and my bedroom stays cold and I have lights. I can store enough fuel for a week without power with this small generator.

I would highly recomend that you do not hook a generator up to your house wiring without the use of a transfer switch. Number one, it is not safe. A transfer switch is the easiest way to hook up your generator to your house wiring. No need to hook up any wires etc... Just start your generator plug it in and throw the switch and you're cooking with juice. My time to come take a look is free.

welldoya

I've got a 5500 watt generator. Actually I have two because I got one at a great deal and figured I would just use it as a back-up.

I would like to get a transfer switch put in one day but it's going to have to wait a little while.

Until then, I just run 12 gauge extension cords. I usually run my fridge, an 8,000 BTU window unit, the TV and a couple of lamps. Haven't had a problem and it's pretty good on fuel.

saltfisher1

I'll be moving out of this area soon and I'm taking my 60 ft cable and breaker off of this breaker box...The box is on the outside by the meter....When I get to the new home it will be installed properly.

saltfisher1

Heres another question....Gasoline/diesel generators VS propane/natural gas......Whats the difference in the cost of running?....Would i be better off getting a natural gas standby as opposed to a large gas portable?

Hydro Therapy 2

natural gas never goes sour.

saltfisher1

Good point.

fighterpilot

15,000 should run the house A/C or are you saying the extra fuel it takes to do that is too costly? I have a 6500 Kohler that runs my house a/c, refrigs, and a few other low draw items such as a light or radio or TV.

saltfisher1

I was looking for fuel consumption and cost per hour type comparisons....My 15000 watt runs 10 hrs on 16 gallons on half load.

superstar

if you hook it up this way you will back feed onto the system.the safest way is to have a disconnect switch installed.it takes more than turning off your main breaker.