How To Install An Interlock Switch

A generator interlock kit is a elementary and safe way to hook up a generator to your house. I just learned nigh this kit, and wish I had installed information technology in my firm. I installed a generator transfer switch in my firm, at present I wished I did this instead. Watch the video I fabricated below and read through for more information.

Steps To Install A Generator Interlock Kit

First of all, I strongly propose you lot hire an electrician for this project. I am showing yous the steps considering I myself was curious how the generator interlock worked. Sticking your hands into an electrical service console is non for the non-professional, OK?

Basically, an interlock provides a style to feed ability from your generator into your electric service panel without backfeeding generator power back down the utility line. Backfeeding is bad, it means sending electricity from your generator into the electric filigree, aka, the utility wires that connect to your house to the local ability company. Backfeeding tin can kill a lineworker.

The interlock provides power to your dwelling house in a elementary way. A 220 volt circuit breaker, matched to the amperage of your generator, is installed at the top of the stack of breakers that feed power to the various rooms and appliances in your house. This 220 billow is connected, with the proper gauge wire, to a weatherproof outlet outside your dwelling. (NOT in your basement)

Generator Interlock Kit

The interlock kit is a metal slide, that is fabricated for the model of circuit panel you own. Interlocks are not avail for all electric panels, you will demand a generator transfer panel if 1 is not made for your panel.

This mechanical slide does one unproblematic thing. It keeps anyone from turning on the main power breaker (power from the utility lines) when the generator circuit breaker is turned on, and vice versa. Utility ability is feeding the circuit console, the slide is pushed down, generator feeding the panel, the slide is up. The interlock prevents both the utility power and the generator power breakers from being 'ON' at the aforementioned time.

Couple of Things I Learned Nigh Generator Interlock Installation

Site your weatherproof outlet where you can easily get to it, and have the generator near past.
Brand certain the outdoor outlet is mounted into studs or brick, you volition be yanking on information technology to plug and unplug the ability cord
Interlocks are not available for all excursion panels.

Here is a list of items you will need for the installation, your electrician may demand additional materials, talk to them before purchasing anything. This is sized for a twenty amp 220 volt generator plug & outlet, the L14-20.

Generator Interlock Kit (this is the 1 for our console, yours may be unlike)

20 amp Two Pole Circuit Breaker (for our brand of circuit console)

Generator Power Cord (20 amp with L14-20 plugs)

Outdoor Outlet For Generator (20 amp)

Let me know thoughts and questions, I'll do my best to answer, thx!