Power Tech Generators PTSMH-15 Operator's Manual page 50

Generator sets in recreational vehicles are often used to supply AC voltage for appliances. With
the exception of a resistance-type load such as a water heater, requirements for appliances are usually
low. However, such loads must not be overlooked when calculating the total wattage requirements. To
avoid an overload situation, reserve capacity should also be calculated for unanticipated appliance loads.
The average power requirements for some common electrical appliances are listed below as a guide.
CHECK √
An extension cord is normally used to provide electrical power from the generator set to a remote
location. The extension cord size (AWG#) and length must be adequate to safely maintain the amperage
requirements. A proper size extension cord will help minimize the voltage drop between the generator
set and remote location.
AMPS
120 VOLTS
5
10
20
30
40
50
APPLIANCE LOADS
DETERMINING ALTERNATOR LOAD REQUIREMENTS
APPLIANCE
LIGHT BULB
RADIO
TELEVISION
STEREO
FRY PAN
HOME COMPUTER
VACUUM CLEANER
ATTIC FAN 1/4 HP
SUMP PUMP 1/3 HP
REFRIGERATOR
FURNACE FAN 1/3 HP
FREEZER
JET WATER PUMP ¾ HP
ELECTRIC STOVE ELEMENT
SUBMERSIBLE WATER PUMP 1 HP
TOASTER
COFFEE MAKER
DISHWASHER
HAIR DRYER
MICROWAVE OVEN
SUBMERSIBLE WATER PUMP 2 HP
WATER HEATER
OVEN
EXTENSION CORDS
LOAD IN WATTS
240 VOLTS
600
1200
2400
3600
4800
6000 12000
VCR
TOTAL WATTS CHECKED
AWG#10
1200 500 FT
2400 250 FT
4800 125 FT
7200 60 FT
9600 30 FT
15 FT
15
WATTS REQUIRED
70
100
100
100
100
150
150
250
400
500
500
600
800
900
1000
1000
1000
1200
1200
1200
1500
1600
3000
4500
CORD LENGTH
AWG#12 AWG#14
300 FT 200 FT
150 FT 100 FT
75 FT
35 FT
15 FT
-----
50 FT
25 FT
10 FT
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