Generator power plug

[ABursell]

Originally Posted by eljefino
Interlocks are best done during new construction. Then if you need to replace your main panel you don't need the PO Co to yank the meter. So little money up front.


Why would doing it during new construction make any difference with changing the panel? The interlock is installed on the cover of the panel and the circuit is installed just like any other. And even if it did make a difference, how often are you replacing your main panel that this would even be a legitimate consideration?

 

[ARCOgraphite]

Originally Posted by Wolf359
Originally Posted by ARCOgraphite
I have a 200A panel.

I run my portable Generac 6500 when needed through a 15foot 12ga extension cord, ( I used 4 wire submersible well pump FLAT cable) plugged into the 30A clothes dryer 220 circuit.

When power goes out I disconnect the street feed with the main breaker then throw the dryer breaker. That well pump puts quite a load on the Generac.

Due to possible code violation, I cannot recommend this setup to anyone. But as long as I manage it - it has worked OK for the past decade.

I'm not paying 450+ bucks for the transfer switch - the gen only cost $749-

If my gen could situate near the breaker box side of the property, Id install a sub box with a 30A breaker Sw and feed it too a 220v 30A breaker in the mains panel. Still not optimal, but a little less trailer trashy.


That's fine, but you should really use a 10ga extension cord or make your own by buying the wire. 12ga is really mean for 20amp outlets and 10ga is for 30amps.
Thank Wolf. There were so many gen installations at the time of this big ice storm I couldnt find any 10/3ga wire! The submersible pump wire was all I could find in a 15 mile radius of my house and my car was low on gasoline. Gas stations were closed for many days. After got my new generator connected and running, I monitored the temp of the wire and it didnt even get warm when under full load. It helps dissipate heat being flat ribbon instead of twisted rope. I do have to make a better install thhis spring. I have an old water heater 220 10ga run near the dryer outlet, I may build a box for the gen and tie in there. I dont like mickey mouse trailer jobs like I have, really. Sort of embarrassing.

 

[The_Jeff]

Originally Posted by ABursell
Originally Posted by eljefino
Interlocks are best done during new construction. Then if you need to replace your main panel you don't need the PO Co to yank the meter. So little money up front.


Why would doing it during new construction make any difference with changing the panel? The interlock is installed on the cover of the panel and the circuit is installed just like any other. And even if it did make a difference, how often are you replacing your main panel that this would even be a legitimate consideration?


I misspoke, I meant transfer switch. It would have a middle "off" position that allows servicing the main panel.

 

[ABursell]

Originally Posted by eljefino
Originally Posted by ABursell
Originally Posted by eljefino
Interlocks are best done during new construction. Then if you need to replace your main panel you don't need the PO Co to yank the meter. So little money up front.


Why would doing it during new construction make any difference with changing the panel? The interlock is installed on the cover of the panel and the circuit is installed just like any other. And even if it did make a difference, how often are you replacing your main panel that this would even be a legitimate consideration?


I misspoke, I meant transfer switch. It would have a middle "off" position that allows servicing the main panel.


Makes much more sense! I agree!

 

[Andrew1972]

The best option is installing a generator interlock kit on your breaker box with a dedicated 220 circuit running to an exterior plug.

Interlock basically makes you flip the main breaker off and then flip gen breaker on. The bonus is you backfired entire home in a safe, legal and home insurance friendly manner.


https://www.geninterlock.com/manufacturers/

 

[dlundblad]

Originally Posted by madRiver
The best option is installing a generator interlock kit on your breaker box with a dedicated 220 circuit running to an exterior plug.

Interlock basically makes you flip the main breaker off and then flip gen breaker on. The bonus is you backfired entire home in a safe, legal and home insurance friendly manner.


https://www.geninterlock.com/manufacturers/



That 220 circuit would only be for a portable generator right?

 

[dakota99]

Originally Posted by dlundblad
Originally Posted by madRiver
The best option is installing a generator interlock kit on your breaker box with a dedicated 220 circuit running to an exterior plug.

Interlock basically makes you flip the main breaker off and then flip gen breaker on. The bonus is you backfired entire home in a safe, legal and home insurance friendly manner.


https://www.geninterlock.com/manufacturers/



That 220 circuit would only be for a portable generator right?


Correct. It is wired to an inlet box mounted on the exterior of your home.