Generator Dummy Load

   / Generator Dummy Load #1  

bdhsfz6

Elite Member
Joined
Apr 11, 2015
Messages
3,114
Location
Northeastern Pennsylvania
Tractor
Kubota MX5800 HST & L6060 HSTC Formerly L6060 HST B7100 HST, L2550, L3010 HST, L3430 HST
How do you guys put load on your generators during maintenance runs?

I usually just use the house as a load but the momentary loss of power during the changeover causes problems with household electronics. I've been thinking of getting a couple of cheap electric heaters, but I'd like something that draws a bit more for my 11KW generator.

Maybe something like this:
1733927222421.png


Any other ideas?
 
   / Generator Dummy Load #3  
I just plug in anything that is handy, fan, heater, lights old electric leaf blower. Just what is close by and will put a bit of a load on it, does not have to be much
 
   / Generator Dummy Load #4  
I use a big floor fan---46"? Must work because I've been doing it for 25 years.
 
   / Generator Dummy Load #5  
Call some of your local A/C repair companies. Ask if they have a used indoor fan coil from a change out with a 10kw heater. This setup will allow for you to check the +/-240v circuit. A simple tstat and you're in business. You're on the right track with the portable heater for the 120v circuit.
edit: what you're referring to is called a "load bank"
 
   / Generator Dummy Load
  • Thread Starter
#6  
   / Generator Dummy Load #7  
I use a couple base board heaters I mounted on two two by fours. I wanted more load than a 100 watt lightbulb for my 5000 watt generator. I am close to max load when I run it so it gets a workout.
 
   / Generator Dummy Load #8  
I just plug in anything that is handy, fan, heater, lights old electric leaf blower. Just what is close by and will put a bit of a load on it, does not have to be much
👍🏻 Air compressor… shop vac….wife’s hair dryer 😁
 
   / Generator Dummy Load #9  
I use an old 1/2 drill, and run it for at least 10 minutes in each direction. Very easy, just lock the trigger and set it down on some hard styrofoam so it doesn,t get scratched up while running.
 
   / Generator Dummy Load #10  
Something I have no answer for with either of my Generac standby gensets. I would presume they somehow load the heads but how, I don't have a clue. All I know is they each run every week for a pre determined amount of time and then go back to sleep. Over the years I've gotten so I pay no attention to them other than maintenance intervals.
 

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