How To Connect Two Generators In Parallel
You may have purchased an inverter generator with lower wattage that fits your original purpose, but now you lot need more power. What exercise y'all do?
If your current inverter generator can run in parallel, yous are in luck. Running two generators in parallel or synchrony tin can heave your power to come across your everyday needs. A parallel operation can relieve you the expense of ownership a more meaning, powerful generator.
If you lot need to run high-describe appliances such every bit air-conditioners, a smaller watt inverter generator will not produce enough non-top load watts to sustain power menstruum. Connecting some other inverter generator tin can boost the ability output plenty to handle not only the a/c merely also other appliances simultaneously.
Suppose you are operating small electronic devices, such as computers or cell phones. In that example, the inverter generators offer a more stable and abiding period of energy to protect those sensitive items from harm.
How Do Parallel Generators Work?
Just stated, running generators in parallel means that two are running with their cables connected to a unmarried line that delivers their combined power.
The first stride is the brand sure the 2 generators are rated the same for the amperage and voltage they produce. Attempting to connect two dissimilar generators that do not lucifer tin can cause damage to one or both.
- Match the alternator pitch – this must be compatible
- Be sure the voltage output is the same on both generators
- Each generator must have the same frequency
- You lot must use a parallel cable designed to run between the generators
The second step is to connect both generators using a parallel kit designed for that purpose. Follow the directions provided in either your owner's manual or the parallel kit for the specific steps for your generator.
There is a sequence to powering the generators, and then be sure to follow the steps provided in your owner'southward manual or instructions from the parallel kit.
The third step is to connect the generators via the parallel kit cable to the power (load) input for your home, business, or RV. Again, follow all directions precisely to avert bug.
Should I Buy a Larger Generator Instead?
You already have an investment in your electric current inverter generator. Ownership a more pregnant higher watt generator will:
- Toll significantly more
- Be more expensive to maintain
- Be less fuel-efficient
- Be louder to operate
- Peradventure be more challenging to movement or send
- Exist less likely to exist uniform with your current generator
Bug with incompatible generators
You may be wondering why it is crucial to have "twin" generators in the parallel process. If yous hook up an incompatible generator that has less power, the unabridged purpose will be useless. The system you take tried to enhance will be limited to the smaller voltage output.
What are the Benefits of Running Parallel Generators?
Running two inverter generators in parallel also has benefits beyond producing more ability. They tin:
- Be easier to maintain than larger generators
- Be easier to send
- Produce more power together
- Be easier to command the load draw
- Tin be run together or separately during an emergency
When considering your power needs, yous may decide that you have different requirements for unlike times. If you live in an area prone to long-term power outages following storms, you lot volition need to determine if your ability needs will last for a few days or merely a few hours. Will you demand to keep refrigerators and freezers running to avoid food spoilage, or will you simply need lights and small appliances?
Each situation volition be different, and the power needs will crave either one inverter generator or two in parallel. If yous accept a 2500-watt generator (at normal load), adding a second 2500-watt generator in parallel volition give you 5000 watts of power (at normal load) draw.
What Should I Look for in a Parallel Generator?
- Not every generator is parallel compatible. Most inverter generators have parallel capacity. Hopefully, the i you have will run in parallel, but if purchasing a generator for the showtime time, it is wise to become 1 that does. Check your owner's manual or go online to your generator's manufacturer to confirm your status.
- In one case you know that your generator is parallel friendly, yous tin find a uniform generator by searching online manufacturers. You will discover dimensions and statistics listed for each model, as well as parallel options.
- Know your wattage needs. If you know that you'll need more ability (at times) than one generator tin provide, you'll exist able to figure the maximum capacity to operate two generators in parallel. For example, two generators rated at 2000 watts, in parallel they volition produce 4000 watts.
The Importance of Generator Pattern
There are some design choices to consider when purchasing a generator:
- How far from the load will your generator(s) be placed? Longer distances may crave more voltage.
- What blazon of fuel will yous need to apply?
- How many operating hours will your generator run based on the fuel tank size?
- Is there enough ventilation for proper cooling?
- What will your costs for regular maintenance be?
- Is the generator transported or jotter?
These are all important considerations because they determine the end efficacy of the system.
How Much Will Parallel Generators Cost?
The cost is essential as you plan your budget. How much a generator will cost is going to depend on your utilize and the power needs.
Your needs will vary depending on where y'all plan to use your inverter generator(southward). While still well constructed, a stationary generator will non need the framework to protect information technology like those fabricated for job site purposes. If you shop it for employ at your home, the costs may be less than needing generators designed for rugged outdoor use, camping, or worksites.
Prices for a lower watt inverter generator may run from $350 and up, while a more pregnant wattage generator could beginning at $900.
Placement of Generator(s)
It is essential to consider the placement of your inverter generators when running in parallel. Call back that water is not a friend to your generator, so keeping them safe from humidity is vital. As well, maintain your generator(s) and keep them clear of dust and droppings in a well-ventilated space.
An important affair to remember is if one generator fails, you have a backup with the parallel generator. If you simply have one large generator and it fails, you will be without power.
Conclusion
Considering the size of your inverter generator, its location, and your overall ability needs will determine your investment. Prior research will benefit your conclusion and forestall a poor choice when your family or business organization needs electricity the most.
FAQ
Are generator parallel kits universal?
A generator parallel kit should work between them as long equally they are equal in wattage and voltage. Check the outlets on both generators to make sure the plugs match.
Why do we parallel generators?
Running 2 inverter generators in parallel can boost power to meet your everyday needs. A parallel operation tin save you the expense of buying a more significant, powerful generator.
When the higher power is not needed, y'all tin choose to operate one generator. When additional power is required, connect the second generator to double the chapters.
How do generators share the load?
As you can run across in the graph posted at the top of the article, a parallel kit is attached to the 2 inverter generators. The power from the two generators combines before going into the load receptacle. The power output of each generator doubles going to the domicile, business, or RV.
Can I use different brands of generators to parallel?
The answer is yes; however, they must both exist of equal voltage and wattage. Always bank check the manufacturer's recommendations.
Source: https://www.generatorhero.com/parallel-generators-together/
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