Two small vs. One large Generator

Hi,

Maybe I missed it, but someone should point out that you can only parallel the newer inverter style generators that are built to do it. (And probably then only with a special cable.) If someone reading these posts gets the idea to parallel a couple of plain old 115VAC generators, they'll get an instant short and some real damage most likely. The voltages won't be time-synchronized.

Jeff
 
I suspect that you are correct that it was not mentioned--and hopefully everyone assumed that we are talking about only one or two brands--and in these brands (Honda and Yahama), the inverter technology wiith an alternator producing the DC current . It turns out that the cables are not critical, but the inverter technology is.

Motor or hydro driven generators can be synchronized--and some will self synchronize--but don't try it at home! There are some fairly easy techniques for synchronizing small generators, but if you goof--there will be catastrophic results. (When my father was working his way thru Cal Tech in the 20's, he was an "operator" for S. Cal. Edison--Loads had to be balanced and generators synchronized manually, making sure that the units were both in phase and running at the same speed)
 
I was looking at the Honda 1000 and 2000 inverter models in a marina store and was surprised to discover that the 2000 is not that much larger than the 1000. I suspect I will end up doing what many here have done -- getting the Honda EU200i.

Warren
 
Warren,

The numbers do favor the i2000. I've been using mine more and have developed even more respect for that i2000.

I was working on the boat off and on for about 8 hours last weekend. I had a 12 Volt coffee pot going all day, stereo, some electronics, the charger switch on and the air conditioner running (87 degrees and humid). A single Honda i2000 kept that running fine, even at lowered rpm from the "eco throttle" much of the time, until it ran out of gas at the 7 1/2 hour point!!

I actually bought two i2000s and just attached the attachable twist lock connector set, but one unit runs most of the things most of the time!

Even if you only have one Honda i2000, the twist-lock frame they use for coupling two of them gives you: an easy direct, twist lock connection to your boat's shorepower cord, a guage showing the wattage being used, a switch that turns the 30 amp receptacle on and off , as well as two normal household, receptacles.

Remember, though, that I have the slo start, low amp, A/C unit from Pep Boys.

John
 
I had a 12 Volt coffee pot going all day, stereo, some electronics, the charger switch on and the air conditioner running (87 degrees and humid).
Click to expand...
Hmmm, what's wrong with this picture? :shock:

Thanks for the info on the generators John, sounds like you're getting to know them well!
 
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