Portable Generator Requirements


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Old 07-27-18, 09:45 AM
J
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Portable Generator Requirements

I am going to be working a three day fair and I need to power three food warmers for 8 hours each day. The food warmer specs are 120v 60Hz 1200W. What sized portable generator do I need to run all three. The facility is also providing a single 120v 20amp power supply which I'll use to run the smaller appliances, mainly phone, wifi, tablet, etc. Thanks in advance for your help.
 
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Old 07-27-18, 10:23 AM
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I would use one with some capacity headroom such as at least 5000W.
 
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Old 07-27-18, 11:03 AM
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thanks pat, that's what i was figuring, and i want my running capacity to be above 3600 watts (1200x3), correct?
 
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Old 07-27-18, 11:24 AM
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Yes, it's normal (not peak) output should be at least 3'600 watts. And, I never like to run anything at 100%. The generator will get loud and it will be drinking fuel. I prefer to max out at about 80% of capacity. Also pay attention to the number of outlets or circuits the generator has.

Also shop for good cords. You'll want the generator as far away as possible because of noise and you'll be pulling a lot of wattage so heavy duty cords are almost a requirement.
 
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Old 07-27-18, 11:31 AM
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thanks very much, i appreciate your time!
 
 

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