Generator to breaker box 30 amp and 50 amp

dreidel13 · Jan 13, 2020

Hey everyone.
I have the stuff to backfeed my generator through a 30amp breaker. I have the lockout kit that prevents both the breaker and main from being on at the same time. My question is this: My generator is strong enough to run a 50 amp and a 30 amp cord at the same time. Can I backfeed them both into the box at the same time? I would like to power all of my house and think it would if this is possible. I am not sure the 30 amp alone will do everything. The generator is 7500 running watts. I'll list my appliances needed to run below.
Navien tankless boiler for heat (2- pumps and three thermostats)
3/4hp water pump (well water)
Small chest freezer
Refrigerator
Double element water heater
Single element water heater
House lights (all led bulbs)

Extras:
Wi-fi, TV, Cable box, microwave, propane stove (electric lock)

Let me know what you think

HDCowboy · Nov 11, 2021

Break out the schematics for your generator at look what size the main breaker on it is, just because it has a 50 amp plug on it doesn't mean it's 50 amps nor will they actually put out 50 amps! As a matter of fact on most of the higher wattage portable generators the main breaker on them is only 35 amps, just because they have 50 amp plugs on them don't mean squat! Any generator that puts out over 30 amps is going to have a 50 amp plug on it, dont let yourself think that means your generator will actually put out 50 amps just because it has a 50 amp plug on it.

HDCowboy · Nov 11, 2021

As a matter of fact here is the schematics of my Wen11000, it puts out 11000 starting watts and 8300 running watts yet the main breaker on it is only a double pole 35 amp like on most others that size, I use it to backfeed my panel when the power is out using an 8awg cable fed to a 35amp breaker in the panel that that's controlled by a manual interlock preventing it from feeding my panel unless the main breaker is off ..........

cozmo81 · Dec 27, 2022

HDCowboy said:
As a matter of fact here is the schematics of my Wen11000, it puts out 11000 starting watts and 8300 running watts yet the main breaker on it is only a double pole 35 amp like on most others that size, I use it to backfeed my panel when the power is out using an 8awg cable fed to a 35amp breaker in the panel that that's controlled by a manual interlock preventing it from feeding my panel unless the main breaker is off ..........

Came across your post searching for which to use. I’m running the WEN11000 and am trying to set up a manual transfer switch by (reliance) to my house. Even though it says 50 and 30amp on the generator, would you recommend using a 30 amp transfer switch or the 50amp. I’m confused on if I have to use the 50 because of the higher watts the generator puts out. Think 30amp switches rate for 7200-8k. Overloading either is a non issue as I’ll be only using a few things but I want to get the most out of the generator for the home for future use. What are your thoughts?

Megawatt · Dec 28, 2022

RoyleOne said:
Is it okay to use a 50 amp breaker for back feed vs a 30 amp breaker? My gen produces 12K watts and I will use a 50 amp extension cord.

Yes that’s what size breaker I would use since a 30 amp breaker is to small.