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Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Question:

Is it permitted to use flexible cords to connect portable generators to a premise wiring system? Is so are attachment plugs required? It's commonly done, but I don't see it specifically addressed in articles 400, 445, or 702.

Aaron Busche-Vold

A

Answer:

Hey Aaron thanks for your question. Yes, flexible cords are allowed to be used with portable generators. A cord and plug connection is allowed to be used as the disconnecting means for portable generators as stated in 445.18(1). Cord connections are also covered in 702.12(B), such as by the use of a flanged inlet, for portable generators rated 15 kW or less. If an attachment plug is used don't install one on each end of a flexible cord to create a "cheater cord" and "backfeed" a premises wiring receptacle. That is a dangerous practice and is not allowed as stated in 406.7(B).

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