Generator Question

[Sharecropper]

I got a 6500W generator for Christmas. It also listed that it has 8800W starting. What exactly does that mean? BTW, if you are in the market for a generator, now is the time to buy as the stores are trying to get them out of inventory. I saved about $400 compared to what they were in September. I have already installed the inlet plug, transfer switch and have a 20ft. L14-30 cord ready to go. I HATE hurricanes!!

[william]

What starting power means is for a short period of time this is what you can get out of the generator. For your use do not worry about this. The plug you used L14-30 is a NEMA number whish is a 4 wire 30 twist lock plug. If you hooked it up for 240 which is what I imagine what you did you can get 30amps to flow through it safely. With your generator (6500 watts) your continuous full load current at 240 volts would be 27 amps. This is the numbers you will need to be concerned with. This will be fine for a small house on limited amount of usage

[texag93]

6500watts will keep the basics running in case of power failure. You wouldnt be able to run A/C-electric heat. With just a few lights running you could manage running the electric water heater depending on the size of the elements.
Fans, lights, TV, frig. would be no problem.

[CaptainDave]

Perfect size for a hurricane generator. I have a 5500 watt and like texag said, it will run a frig, fan, and some lights at the same time. It also will run a window unit air conditioner without the frig. Will have to say this is a perfect time to buy one outside of hurricane season. Hell, Houston area had one big rush before hurricane rita. Kinda funny that when the hurricane missed Houston, many people were returning their generators. you would think it may come in handy in the future.

[bwssr]

gen

you could also look into converting it to tri fuel system. Mine will be shortly, gas, propane, or natural gas. about 200 for a Birggs engine. Email me and I'll try to send the link....I said try....

[Sharecropper]

Do appliances have "starting" Watts listed? i can't find it listed in the operating manuals. Thanks for all the input!

[Robby Brown]

I got a 6500W generator for Christmas. It also listed that it has 8800W starting. What exactly does that mean? BTW, if you are in the market for a generator, now is the time to buy as the stores are trying to get them out of inventory. I saved about $400 compared to what they were in September. I have already installed the inlet plug, transfer switch and have a 20ft. L14-30 cord ready to go. I HATE hurricanes!!

The starting watts is mainly used when you're running a motor off the generator. Usually on the motor name plate you will find the FLC (full load current) rating along with the ampere rating. Basically your generator can run a motor up to 27A @ 240V with and FLC of 36A @ 240V. Also household appliances do not have enough start up amps to even worry about.

Oh and this is my first post....great site yall have here