Emergency generator question OT

[Frank Blackstone]

Hi Guys I have been out of power since Sunday and running my 2150 watt 17.9 amp, 2 outlets of 15 amps each, gasoline generator. I am trying to pump water from a submersible 1/2 HP pump that has approximate maximum amperage draw of 11.9. It seem to me the pimp is laboring and I know the generator labors and reduces RPM down from 3600 when even only the pump is connected. Would the pump run easier and more efficiently especially at start up if I would connect both of the output sockets in parallel and connect them to the pump. Any assistance is appreciated. I am going offline to run the regrigerator now but will check back later tonight, Frank

[bkahler]

Frank, I doubt very much connecting to both outlets will make a difference. They should be tied together internally on the generator. Your generator will only put out 17 amps even if the outlets are rated at 15 amps each.

More than likely your problem is the gauge of wire you're using from the well connection to your generator. The smaller the wire the more voltage drop you have which means your current requirements go up. Use the largest extension cord you have and keep it short. For something like this you really need a minimum of a 12 gauge cord and ideally a 10 gauge would be best.

You only have a little over 17 amps from the generator and starting your well pump is going to tax the generator. Starting current on the pump is probably about 3 times (36 amps) the running current (12 amps). It sounds like your generator might be able to deal with the starting current but I'm betting your extension cord is to small. Change it if you can and let us know how it comes out.

Good luck!

Brad

[Don Coatney]

Frank;

Your pump is most likely a centrifugal pump. With a pump of this design the more water it moves the higher the amp draw. Pinch off the pump discharge line and the pump impellers began to slip (spin at full speed but not move as much water). This will reduce the amp load, as the pump is not working as hard. Of course it will take longer to empty the sump.