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Topic: Generator and altitude (Read 101 times) previous topic - next topic
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Generator and altitude
Thumbing through the Onan manual looking for recommended  maintenance items and came across this.
Interesting. Never realized the power loss was so great.
 We spend lots of time at 9-11,000’.


Effects Of High Altitude And Extreme
Temperatures
If you travel at high altitudes or in extreme temperatures, your generator can lose power. In such lower-density air conditions, you can’t operate as many electrical devices as you could under normal operating conditions.
Power decreases 3.5% for each 1,000 feet above an altitude of 500 feet. For example, to operate at 4,500 feet (4,000 feet above rated generator altitude) multiply 3.5% x 4 (4,000 ft) = 14% power loss. Then multiply .14 x your generator’s power rating: 4,000 watts x .14 = a loss of 560 watts at that altitude.
Power decreases in extreme temperatures by 1% for each 10°F (5.5°C) above 77°F (25°C).