Looking at portable generators and not sure how much is too much, or not enough.

Not looking at whole home power via transfer switch, etc. Just wanting something to power one full sized refrigerator (or two if I can), a small window unit AC, a box fan or two, modem, and TV. Most of the models I've looked at puts out 6600peak/5300running watts and can run 240v or 120v. The 120v side has two normal outlets and a 30A outlet. Would I be good getting a 30A/120v extension cord with additional outlets? Is there a way to even utilize the 240v side at all for simple household items like this?

You can build a splitter to split the 30A 240 into 2 additional 120V circuits. Each will have 30A capacity, but try to keep them more or less balanced.

A refrigerator will easily run on ~1000W. It's biggest draw is when it first fires up then the statit running load is much lower.

Watts = Volts * Amps

Even if you're doing a small portable generator I'd recommend a transfer switch. It's a few hundred dollars through an electrician and much easier to manage loads via the breaker box than moving appliances and running extension cords. Also nice to have all the lights, fans, and outlets working.

Generator: https://www.costco.com/firman-3200w-running--4000w-peak-dual-fuel-inverter-generator.product.100843922.html

Option 1: Splitter: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MF9ZUUB

Option 2: Manual transfer kit: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Reliance-Controls-30-Amp-250-Volt-7500-Watt-Non-Fuse-6-Circuit-Transfer-Switch-Kit-3006HDK/202213700

With option two, I had to find an adapter from my 120v generator(TT-30R) into two 120v "circuits" to work with the 240v input

If you can afford one, Honda makes a very nice 5500W inverter. I've had one for a couple of years and it's a tank.

pnut02 said:

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Generator: https://www.costco.com/firman-3200w-running--4000w-peak-dual-fuel-inverter-generator.product.100843922.html

Option 1: Splitter: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MF9ZUUB

Option 2: Manual transfer kit: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Reliance-Controls-30-Amp-250-Volt-7500-Watt-Non-Fuse-6-Circuit-Transfer-Switch-Kit-3006HDK/202213700

With option two, I had to find an adapter from my 120v generator(TT-30R) into two 120v "circuits" to work with the 240v input

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Option 3: just use the 30amp inlet and turn on/off the breakers that you want to use in your home. No need for all the extra wiring and work putting in a manual transfer switch.

RoyVal said:

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pnut02 said:

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Generator: https://www.costco.com/firman-3200w-running--4000w-peak-dual-fuel-inverter-generator.product.100843922.html

Option 1: Splitter: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MF9ZUUB

Option 2: Manual transfer kit: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Reliance-Controls-30-Amp-250-Volt-7500-Watt-Non-Fuse-6-Circuit-Transfer-Switch-Kit-3006HDK/202213700

With option two, I had to find an adapter from my 120v generator(TT-30R) into two 120v "circuits" to work with the 240v input

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Option 3: just use the 30amp inlet and turn on/off the breakers that you want to use in your home. No need for all the extra wiring and work putting in a manual transfer switch.

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I installed an interlock in mine after finding out the electric co-op wanted plans, a fee, buying their switch with a subscription program, etc. I just shut down breaker I don't want and keep my generator on a 50A. If I turn on one too many things I'll know.

Installing a manual transfer switch is all of like 5 minutes. Installing an outlet is the hardest part either way. Also a pretty important safety device. Can do it much easier and with more flexibility than having a secondary box that poster linked.

I wouldn't install an outlet/inlet without having a designated generator breaker and an interlock. But you do you.