6
EXTENSION CORD CAbLE SIZE
Refer to the table below to ensure the cable size of the extension cords you use are capable of carrying the required
load. Inadequate size cables can cause a voltage drop, which can burn out the appliance and overheat the cord.
Current in
Amperes
Load in watts Maximum Allowable Cord Length
At 120V At 240V #8 wire #10 wire #12 wire #14 wire #16 wire
2.5 300 600 1000 ft. 600 ft. 375 ft. 250 ft.
5 600 1200 500 ft. 300 ft. 200 ft. 125 ft.
7.5 900 1800 350 ft. 200 ft. 125 ft. 100 ft.
10 1200 2400 250 ft. 150 ft. 100 ft. 50 ft.
15 1800 3600 150 ft. 100 ft. 65 ft.
20 2400 4800 175 ft. 125 ft. 75 ft.
25 3000 6000 150 ft. 100 ft.
30 3600 7200 125 ft. 65 ft.
40 4800 9600 90 ft.
ELECTRIC MOTOR LOADS
It is characteristic of common electric motors in normal operation to draw up to six times their running current while
starting. This table may be used to estimate the watts required to start “Code G” electric motors; however, if an elec-
tric motor fails to start or reach running speed, turn off the appliance or tool immediately to avoid equipment damage.
Always check the requirements of the tool or appliance being used compared to the rated output of the generator.
Motor Size (H.P.) Running watts watts Required to Start Motor
Repulsion Induction Capacitor Split Phase
1/8 275 600 850 1200
1/6 275 600 850 2050
1/4 400 850 1050 2400
1/3 450 975 1350 2700
1/2 600 1300 1800 3600
3/4 850 1900 2600 —
1 1100 2500 3300 —
ELECTRICAL