Your generator needs a real generator cord.

No, you cannot use the same orange extension cord you use for a leaf blower. That is a fire waiting to happen.

Generator cords are built for continuous high-amperage loads. Standard extension cords are not. A generator can pull 30 amps or more, and a typical 16-gauge household cord will heat up, drop voltage, and potentially melt its insulation. You need a cord with the right gauge for the distance and the load.

Here’s the quick math: for a 30-amp generator running up to 50 feet from the house, you want 10-gauge wire. For 50-100 feet, step up to 8-gauge. If you’re only running individual appliances (like a fridge) from a 15-amp outlet on the generator, a 14-gauge heavy-duty