Running generators in parallel

[MossRoad]

Nope.
Parallel cables allow the user to obtain the full power of both units, limited by the capacity of an individual outlet. Parallel cables are available for the EU1000i, EU2000i, EU3000 Handi, EU3000i, and EU7000iS.


If you have 2 regular EU2000i or 2 EU7000iS, consider a parallel kit. The parallel kits include a built in 30A outlet (EU2000) or 50A outlet (EU7000iS), which is capable of providing the combined full power from both generators.

If you have a regular EU2000i and the Companion model, you only need a parallel cord. You will be able to use the 30A outlet on the Companion to draw the full combined power of the two units.

From what I read, the EU2000 is still only 120V with the parallel kit. You have to go up to at least a 3800 to get 240V.

 

[MossRoad]

In My Ice storm/ generator lessons there was some discussion of running generators in parallel which I would like to explore further.

I've seen 10KW military gens run in parallel and am familiar with the concept of the Honda gensets that run in parallel. But now there are getting to be a number of inverter generators for relatively low cost that claim to be able to parallel. The DuroMax XP2000iS 2000 Watt Digital Inverter Gas Powered Portable Generator is going for $350 and to me having 2 would be handy.

What is the experience of TBN'ers running gensets in parallel?

How easy is it?
Is Honda that much better to justify $2K versus $700 for the same capability?

That's a good price for an inverter generator.

If you buy two, you've got $700 into it. And then you'll have to find a parallel kit for that specific generator if they make one. So add another $100.

You'll end up with 4000W of 120V power, but no 240V available. So no well pump, air conditioning, heat pump, etc.... if that's important to you.

 

[newbury]

That's a good price for an inverter generator.

If you buy two, you've got $700 into it. And then you'll have to find a parallel kit for that specific generator if they make one. So add another $100.

You'll end up with 4000W of 120V power, but no 240V available. So no well pump, air conditioning, heat pump, etc.... if that's important to you.

Actually Walmart sells the parallel kit for $80 and I don't need 240 for a well pump or heat pump and I have several a/c units that run on 120V.

 

[MossRoad]

Actually Walmart sells the parallel kit for $80 and I don't need 240 for a well pump or heat pump and I have several a/c units that run on 120V.

Hold on there, Sparky! :laughing:

That parallel kit is for a different model generator. Will it work on the one you're looking at?

 

[MossRoad]

Amazon.com : DuroMax XP315PK 12V 5A Portable Inverter Generator Parallel Connector Kit : Patio, Lawn & Garden

 

[MossRoad]

Here's a link with better descriptions of the generator you're looking at. It says it has built in parallel ports. Maybe you'll be OK with that Walmart kit.

Awful good prices. Very tempting....

DuroMax XP2iS 2 Watt Digital Inverter Gas Powered Portable Generator

 

[newbury]

And remember the Ebay seller of the small generator, factory_authorized_outlet, is the same one that occasionally sells the Duromax Hybrid 10,000 Watt Gasoline Generator dual fuel for $650 or less, when "normal" street price is over $850 according to camelcamelcamel. So the seller might decide to unload a batch a lot cheaper.

 

[Sawyer Rob]

Hold on there, Sparky! :laughing:

That parallel kit is for a different model generator. Will it work on the one you're looking at?

I'm betting "yes", in fact you can make your own, they aren't rocket science...

BTW, Harbor freight sells one for about $45.00...

BTW BTW, those cheapo china small generators are sold in all kinds of brands now-a-days...

SR

 

[MossRoad]

And remember the Ebay seller of the small generator, factory_authorized_outlet, is the same one that occasionally sells the Duromax Hybrid 10,000 Watt Gasoline Generator dual fuel for $650 or less, when "normal" street price is over $850 according to camelcamelcamel. So the seller might decide to unload a batch a lot cheaper.

I'll be watching what you do. Good luck. My generator is a Coleman 4500W 3600RPM gas that is LOUD!!! and uses quite a bit of fuel. I bought it back around 1995. Still works fine, but is heavy and did I mention LOUD!!!??

 

[MossRoad]

I'm betting "yes", in fact you can make your own, they aren't rocket science...

BTW, Harbor freight sells one for about $45.00...

BTW BTW, those cheapo china small generators are sold in all kinds of brands now-a-days...

SR

Here's a video of some guy making his own for about $35.