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Generator 30 AMP Outlet vs 20 AMP extension cord

 
 
aes52
 
Reply Tue 14 Jan, 2014 12:24 pm
I have a Ridgid 5700 Watt Yamaha generator with (1) 240 volt/30 amp outlet and (4) 120 volt/20 amp outlets. I purchased a 25 ft. extension cord with 4 prong ends on both the male & female plugs. Both extension cord plugs are marked as "L14-20". I think this means it is a 20 AMP cord but I'm not sure. Can this extension cord be plugged into the generator 30 AMP outlet (which takes a 4 prong plug)? Or do I need to get a 30 AMP extension cord. Another alternative may be to get a 4 prong 20 AMP male adapter plug to plug into the generator 30 AMP outlet?
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Type: Question • Score: 1 • Views: 4,858 • Replies: 4
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engineer
 
  1  
Reply Tue 14 Jan, 2014 12:42 pm
@aes52,
You can use your cord but you should restrict it to loads that are 20amp or less.
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BlackRussian
 
  0  
Reply Sun 2 Feb, 2014 10:16 pm
@aes52,
No, the 20 amp rated cord does not have the same configuration as the the 30 amp outlet on the generator. It will not physically fit. You can use the adapter, but keep in mind that the generator's breaker protection is for 30 amps, but the wire of the cord is only rated for 20. Therefore, under heavy load, your cord will get hot, and ultimately may heat stress the conductors, further damaging them. Just play it safe and buy a heavier gauge cord. I know they can be expensive, but if you order them online, from sites like Amazon, they can be much cheaper.
farmerman
 
  1  
Reply Sun 2 Feb, 2014 10:24 pm
@BlackRussian,
they are readily available at any RV center since most RVs use 30 A hookups
BlackRussian
 
  1  
Reply Sun 2 Feb, 2014 11:04 pm
@farmerman,
Yes. They are . I was merely pointing out that pre-made generator cords can be rather expensive, in fact, exponentially expensive for longer distances. I was just pointing out a more cost effective source.
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