Load Balancing
When powering equipment using a generator it is important to load the generator evenly. Most single phase generators
have two separate winding groups to create its full output. We’ll call these halves G
1
and G
3
. While using a 240V tool, both
G
1
and G
3
are being utilized equally. While using a 120V tool, either G
1
or G
3
is being utilized. It is critical to know which
side of the generator you are loading.
Please note: This information was provided only as a guide. For other WINCO generator loading questions, please consult
the operator’s manual or a WINCO dealer.
A helpful tip to know is that 1 Amp of 240V is equal to 1 Amp 120V G
1
plus 1 Amp 120V G
3
. Although the amount of voltage
is doubled, the amperage is going to remain the same. For example, if 20 Amps is being drawn from the 240V receptacle, it
is the same as if 20 Amps 120V is drawn from G
1
and 20 Amps 120V is being drawn from G
3
, equaling 40 Amps at 120V.
Here are some amperage ratings for WINCO units:
WL12000VE: 45 Amps 240V (or 45 Amps 120V from G
1
plus 45 Amps 120V G
3
,
equaling 90 Amps at 120V)
WL18000VE: 62.5 Amps 240V (or 62.5 Amps 120V from G
1
plus 62.5 Amps 120V G
3
, equaling 125 Amps at 120V)
Here’s one example on how to connect loads. The WL12000VE and WL18000VE are able to power 2 welders that are
normally around 18 Amps of 240V and 2 hand-held welders which are normally around 16 Amps of 120V. To make sure the
loads are balanced, the 120V welders would have one plugged into a G
1
receptacle and the other into a G
3
receptacle. If all
four welders are plugged in properly, the load will be balanced with 34 Amps 120V from G
1
and G
3
. If the handheld welders
were plugged in incorrectly, that could mean 50 Amps 120V would be supplied from G
1
and only 18 Amps 120V from G
3
.The
diagram shows which receptacles are powered by G
1
and G
3
.
225 S. Cordova Ave Le Center MN • 1-800-733-2112 • www.wincogen.com
PORTABLE GENERATOR
LOAD BALANCING GUIDE
L-1008
REV A
30A
20 20
A
20
A
1
V
20
1
1
V
30
A
20
240
V
GFCI
GFCI
/
1
60
A
60
A
20
240
/
MLCB
KEY: G
1
G
3
240 V
120/240 V
WL18000VEWL12000HE
30A
240V
30A 240V GFCI
20A
120V
GFCI
60A
120
/
240V
45A
BRE
A
K
ER
GFCI