Is a 3-phase generator end suitable for the average homeowner or small business using single-phase power?
A. A majority of generator packagers typically will use an over-sized 12-wire 3-phase 3-pole generator end for single-phase applications and utilize 2-poles for single-phase. This requires that the generator end is sized approximately 1/3rd larger than the rated single-phase output. This approach of using a 12-lead over-sized 3-phase generator system allows the generator system to be used for both single-phase and 3-phase applications depending on customer requirements. (Example: 10kw engine coupled to a 15kw generator end). There are a number of major brand products that are packaged with dedicated 4-lead single-phase only generators. For the most part these are quality products designed for a specific single-phase application. A note of caution: Generator packagers who assemble a 10kw engine & 10kw 3-phase generator end and utilize this configuration for single-phase applications are selling you a potentially problematic generator configuration because the engine will always be overs
