Ask Experts Questions for FREE Help !
Ask
    gutiec1940's Avatar
    gutiec1940 Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Sep 5, 2008, 11:32 AM
    Grounding a Generator
    I want to ground a 5500W generator and want to know if I can ground it to the existing
    Home ground rod? I understand that I need a #6 copper wire, however the generator
    Receptacle does not accept this size of wire, it is to big. Can I use a smaller size wire?

    I only use the generator during power outages during the Hurricane season.
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #2

    Sep 5, 2008, 12:10 PM
    You do NOT need a ground rod for a portable generator that is connected via the receptacles on the panel.

    Only a hard wired standby generator requires a ground rod.

    Just so you know, even if you did connect your genny to a ground rod, it would NOT be doing ANYTHING. A ground rod does NOT "provide" or create a ground.

    Most portable generators have a neutral to ground bond in the final (120/240v) side of the wiring.
    gutiec1940's Avatar
    gutiec1940 Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #3

    Sep 5, 2008, 02:30 PM
    This genator is not connected via the receptacles on the house panel, it is standing on its
    Own and provide the power via extension cords to the refrigirators and some llights as well
    As a couple of fans!
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #4

    Sep 5, 2008, 02:32 PM
    Then a ground rod will do absolutely nothing for you.
    gutiec1940's Avatar
    gutiec1940 Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #5

    Sep 5, 2008, 02:37 PM
    Thank you very much for the information, I can return the ground rod and clamps.
Not your question? Ask your question View similar questions
 

Question Tools Search this Question
Search this Question:

Advanced Search

Add your answer here.


Check out some similar questions!

Generator grounding [ 5 Answers ]

I just bought a 4400/3500 watt generator for a building project. The directions say that I need to ground the generator with a suitable grounding rod and stranded No. 12 AWG wire. I have never heard of contractors grounding their generators. Are they being careless, or are my generator...

Generator grounding [ 1 Answers ]

Have a 35k generator on a fire truck. We use a grounding rod, but have been told that it is not required. Would like to know if it is required. Thanks Bill

Outlet grounding [ 4 Answers ]

What problem would happen if the ground wire on an outlet was hooked to the netural white wire?

Hot tub grounding bar [ 9 Answers ]

I got a free hot tub... yeah right free-the 6/3 wire itself is going to run $300! Anyway, the instruction manual calls for a 50 amp breaker and the 6/3 UF wire with ground. It also calls for a #6 copper wire that is attached to a grounding bar that is to be buried. I have heard two solutions,...

Grounding a GFI [ 1 Answers ]

I am using an existing wire that was used for a dryer. I have changed the breakers to 2-20 amp single pole breakers and am splitting the line to make two 110volt GFI outlets for a whirlpool tub (1 for pump and 1 for heater). I have a red, white, and black wires, however, there is no bare copper...

View more questions Search