Question from Sal, a Homeowner in Stillwater, New Jersey Connect a Plug for my Generator
I want to install a male and female connection on the power line to my home oil burner so in the event of a black out I can plug into my gas generator. Problems: Maintaining polarity on the plug and outlet. It seems that I have to reverse the connection- brass for black wire – silver for white wire. Ran into the same problem on the extension cord when I cut the old plug and outlet.
Dave’s Answer:
Sal, make sure the oil burner has been wired properly. The wiring connections to the generator should be standard and not reversed, so if there is a problem connecting other equipment to the generator then we should make sure and check the equipment out to prevent problems with other equipment that may be connected to the generator.
Question from Raymond a Handyman in Pembroke Pines, Florida Should I make an Cord or Plug Adapter for my Generator?
I have a 50 amp plug to hook up to my old generator to my home. My new generator has a twist 4 prong 30 amp plug on it. Can I make up an adapter from my 50 amp plug to my new 30 amp plug? I would like to keep both options open if possible.
Dave’s Answer:
Raymond, to avoid confusion and standardize the wiring to your new generator you should consider changing the old cord connection to the new 30amp plug.
Electrical Question from Ron about Generators
Background: Ron, a Homeowner from Portland, Oregon.
[ad#block]Question: I have an inverter generator. I recently purchased a TV that has an internal battery and internal charger that can be charged either AC or DC. When I plug the TV into the generator it will run off the internal battery but not the generator. This is listed as a possibility in the user manual. My question is whether or not I can plug an AC to DC converter into the inverter generator and run the TV on DC which will allow the TV to run and charge. Thank you.
Additional Comments: Awesome web site.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Ron.
You will have to look at the power specifications of the output of the DC supply on the generator and compare it with the power requirement specifications of the TV to see if the two are compatible or not.
Electrical Wiring Tips for Home Electrical Wiring Projects
Tripping Circuit Breaker, Outlet at a Wall Switch, Light Fixture without a Ground Wire, Help with Home Electrical Wiring Projects.
See more House Wiring Videos from Ask The Electrician:
Perfect for Homeowners, the Handyman, and Electricians Includes: Complete with Practical Hands On Wiring Instructions Installing Electrical Wiring for Generator Panels and Transfer Switches Loaded with On the Job Electrical Pictures and Wiring Diagrams Great Help for Wiring a Generator and Transfer Switch ....and much more. » Click here to learn more about Home Electric Wiring
«
Search Electrical Wiring Topics Enter a Search Phrase or Topic Here
Basic Home Electrical Wiring by Example, an Introduction.
See the overview of the course: Basics of Home Electrical Wiring by Example.
Installing a Home Generator
Electrical Project Skill Level:
Licensed Electrical Contractor, Not Recommended for Homeowners.
Electrical Tools Required:
Electricians pouch of hand tools and the various power tools necessary for installing the generator and transfer switch. Estimated Time:
Depends on the type and size of the generator and transfer switch and the available access to the project area. Electrical Safety:
Any existing electrical wiring within the immediate area that may interfere with the installation of the transfer switch may need to be relocated if necessary.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials:
Electrical parts and materials for generator wiring projects should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections:
Installing a generator and transfer switch must be well thought out and performed with a permit with all work being inspected.
» How To Wire It RIGHT!« Wire it with Confidence! Fully Illustrated Instant Download Now You Can Wire it like a Pro!
Recent Testimonials
I think your site offers the the clearest and best electrical information for homeowners I have ever seen on the net.You have given me confidence to do my own projects which I never had before. THANK YOU! Paul, from Foxboro, Massachusetts
I wish I found this site earlier, it is by far the best electrical related resource I have found on the web. George, from Scranton, Pennsylvania
I love this site for an office worker that does not know anything about electric wiring. Bill, from New York City, New York
This site is so much better than the 3 books I just bought, I wish I came here first. Collin, from Grand Rapids, Michigan
Thank you for answering my question.
I was able to get this done. This site is perfect. I am glad I found it. Please keep it going. Mike, from Chicago, Illinois
