[Elecraft] OT: Whole House Generator - Update

[Doug Hensley]

Someone on the list suggested we post a summary of private responses to us as an alternative, I'm guessing, to members not knowing what was said.   In my case, the results don't lend themselves to a simple summary so I am sending this as a fair response to what I learned:


  1.   I'm quite surprised by the many respondents with homes over 2500 sq feet running satisfactorily off generators under 10 KW with several as low as 5 & 5.5 KW.   One 3300 sq ft home was happy on 7 KW.  Generator size ranged as you would expect from the portable Honda to the stationary GENERAC & KOHLER units.  Natural gas as a fuel choice got the most recommendations.  The overall lesson seems to be to "know your load" and buy what you need, not what you want.

  2.    I'm was pleased to hear K3, K3S & KX3 owners consistently reporting whatever hash their units were producing had no ill effects on their Elecraft radios during the period their generator was running.  One engineer measured his no frills stationary generator as having about 4% THD.   Most reported only the audible noise from their generator was noticeable while it was running (I suppose like a lawn mower doing the lawn outside).
  3.    No one reported having a GENERAC Syntergy unit.
  4.    The 1800 RPM Kohler was recommended the most over the more prevalent & cheaper 3600 RPM units.
  5.    Finally, most people were in favor of an automatic transfer switch for the whole house with installation done by a proper electrician.


Sorry I can't give any more specifics.  The reports of Elecraft working nicely with or without the generator running was refreshing.  Thanks to all who responded.


Doug W5JV