Generator Interlock - Using it & Connecting a Generator to your House
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- Опубліковано 4 жов 2024
- How to safely connect your generator using a Generator Interlock kit. Prevents back-feeding and protects everyone including you! Features a Honda EU7000os generator but the process is similar for nearly all generators this size.
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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Silver Cymbal, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. Silver Cymbal assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. Silver Cymbal recommends safe practices when working on machines and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Silver Cymbal, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Silver Cymbal.
That is a great tutorial on how to use a generator with an interlock kit. My only advise is to advise customers that their generator will not likely be strong enough to operate their central AC, Electric Range, or Electric water heater in some cases. It's important to remember to have those breakers off when using generator power. I also NEVER turn a main breaker on or off unless all branch circuit breakers are OFF. You don't want large inrush currents impacting your main breaker or your generator. It's best to have those branch circuits turned on individually to allow things to come on without huge current spikes.
Thanks for putting this tutorial out there.
Here are portable generator safety rules: this safety information is only for anyone who use a portable gas generator and for those who are planning on getting a portable gas generator. This is just a reminder for everyone’s safety. All generator safety rules should be followed carefully. This advice is just to make sure that everyone is aware of all the warnings and it’s just to remind people to be careful using portable generators. Generators can be dangerous if not used carefully. Every year, hundreds of people die or get injured when using portable generators due to carbon monoxide poisoning and electrocution. Make sure you are using your generator carefully and keeping others safe as well. There is something very serious that everyone should always be aware of when using generators. Some people do run their generator indoors which is not safe and that increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning which can cause death of family and you. Some people run their generator in wet conditions which can electrocute them. Please remember that you should never run your generator indoors. Remember that carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that you cannot see or smell. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. Keep that in mind. Make sure your generator is 15-20 feet away from your house and away from doors, windows, and vents. Never use your generator in your porch too. Having a carbon monoxide detector is very important against generator safety. Some people also allow children to go near the portable generator which could pose risks. We need to keep an eye on our children making sure that they are not near the portable generator so they won’t get electrocuted or burned by the generator which is dangerous. A locking enclosure also keeps kids safe. A generator shed might look like a tempting place to explore, or take cover during a game of hide and seek, but a generator is a dangerous piece of equipment that can cause injury. It says on the manual that we should also keep children away at all times from the portable generator to avoid injuries. Please do not allow a child or unqualified people to operate the portable generator. It is important to keep your children safe especially little ones. The portable generator can be hot during an operation. Just because some manuals missed what should be listed doesn’t mean it’s safe to do. Always follow the generator safety rules when using portable generators. Generators pose electrical risks. If you need to use your generator during wet weather, you need a generator tent to protect your generator from getting wet. Don’t let your generator get wet. Keep your generator dry and before using your generator, please make sure your hands and your generator is dry. Do not wear loose clothing when operating the generator. Everything that is said on the generator’s operating manual should not be ignored. Never smoke cigarettes near the generator. Please keep flammable things away from the generator. Never overload your generator too. Your generator can catch fire. Never ever try to plug a generator cord into a wall outlet to avoid back feeding. Back feeding your generator is dangerous. Always turn on your generator first before plugging in appliances and shut off the appliances before turning your generator off. Use a heavy duty cord for your generator and the cord should not be worn out. All the instructions should be followed carefully. Never refuel your generator while it’s running. It can cause fire if fuel spills while your generator is hot. You should turn off your generator and let it cool off before refueling it. Having a fire extinguisher next to the generator is also important. This is only a reminder for everyone’s safety of using generators. Make sure your generator is properly grounded. Having a fire extinguisher next to the generator is also important against the safety rules. ua-cam.com/video/I1jT3ANENvI/v-deo.html and here is a video more about keeping others safe when using generators and also about our family’s safety. Hope this helps. Thank you.
According to RELIANCE on their 30 AMP outdoor outlet, Do Not Start the Generator First as in this video. With the Generator Off, Make the wired connection from the Reliance or other Outdoor Outlet to the Generator. Their instructions explicitly state: "Risk Of Electric Shock. Do Not Start The Generator Until The Cord Is Connected To This Inlet and the Generator. Any Terminal May Be Energized When When The Cord Is Connected." "Shut Down The Generator Prior To Disconnecting The Cord From This Inlet And The Generator".
Good job on this demonstration! Also, it is a great idea for one to purchase 'PowerBack' Model THP108 by Reliance Controls so one will know when the Utility Power comes back on if they go with the Interlock Switch. This way if your main panel is inside your house, you don't have to look for lights to come on at a neighbor's house or wait for some form of notification (Text, Phone Call) from your utility company to know that the main power has been restored. The Interlock Switch in my opinion is the better way to go than installing a limited number of circuit breakers using a Transfer Switch! I also added a dedicated battery operated emergency light on an individual circuit over the service panel so that when the power goes out, the emergency light comes on that shines right there on the panel.
Have a nearly identical setup as you. Love my EU7000i. Recently went through hurricane Michael with power outage of about 22 hours. Ran generator for about 18 hours and powered everything but the AC. Fuel usage was less than 5 gallons. Great video!
Thank you very much. If you see my other video, I actually recorded it after 3 days of being on generator, live. We didn't get power back for 5 straight days of running! We are on a well here so it's really critical.
If you wanted, could you have ran the a/c?
Here are portable generator safety rules: this safety information is only for anyone who use a portable gas generator and for those who are planning on getting a portable gas generator. This is just a reminder for everyone’s safety. All generator safety rules should be followed carefully. This advice is just to make sure that everyone is aware of all the warnings and it’s just to remind people to be careful using portable generators. Generators can be dangerous if not used carefully. Every year, hundreds of people die or get injured when using portable generators due to carbon monoxide poisoning and electrocution. Make sure you are using your generator carefully and keeping others safe as well. There is something very serious that everyone should always be aware of when using generators. Some people do run their generator indoors which is not safe and that increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning which can cause death of family and you. Some people run their generator in wet conditions which can electrocute them. Please remember that you should never run your generator indoors. Remember that carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that you cannot see or smell. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. Keep that in mind. Make sure your generator is 15-20 feet away from your house and away from doors, windows, and vents. Never use your generator in your porch too. Having a carbon monoxide detector is very important against generator safety. Some people also allow children to go near the portable generator which could pose risks. We need to keep an eye on our children making sure that they are not near the portable generator so they won’t get electrocuted or burned by the generator which is dangerous. A locking enclosure also keeps kids safe. A generator shed might look like a tempting place to explore, or take cover during a game of hide and seek, but a generator is a dangerous piece of equipment that can cause injury. It says on the manual that we should also keep children away at all times from the portable generator to avoid injuries. Please do not allow a child or unqualified people to operate the portable generator. It is important to keep your children safe especially little ones. The portable generator can be hot during an operation. Just because some manuals missed what should be listed doesn’t mean it’s safe to do. Always follow the generator safety rules when using portable generators. Generators pose electrical risks. If you need to use your generator during wet weather, you need a generator tent to protect your generator from getting wet. Don’t let your generator get wet. Keep your generator dry and before using your generator, please make sure your hands and your generator is dry. Do not wear loose clothing when operating the generator. Everything that is said on the generator’s operating manual should not be ignored. Never smoke cigarettes near the generator. Please keep flammable things away from the generator. Never overload your generator too. Your generator can catch fire. Never ever try to plug a generator cord into a wall outlet to avoid back feeding. Back feeding your generator is dangerous. Always turn on your generator first before plugging in appliances and shut off the appliances before turning your generator off. Use a heavy duty cord for your generator and the cord should not be worn out. All the instructions should be followed carefully. Never refuel your generator while it’s running. It can cause fire if fuel spills while your generator is hot. You should turn off your generator and let it cool off before refueling it. Having a fire extinguisher next to the generator is also important. This is only a reminder for everyone’s safety of using generators. Make sure your generator is properly grounded. Having a fire extinguisher next to the generator is also important against the safety rules. ua-cam.com/video/I1jT3ANENvI/v-deo.html and here is a video more about keeping others safe when using generators and also about our family’s safety. It’s important to keep your children safe especially little ones. Hope this helps. Thank you.
Nice video, I have the same kit. I turn off the branch circuits before turning on the generator breaker. Then once that is on and power is suppled to the panel I start turning on the branch circuits, I start with the one that will provide light in the panel area, that is the basement. Then I have the circuits numbers on a spreadsheet by priority, sump pump, heat, water heater, kitchen lights and so on.
That's how I do it as well - spreadsheet and all!
So glad I found your channel. SO many helpful videos. I have a transfer switch and a large generator to run our well pump, etc and I use it so infrequently I forget the order of use! So, THANK YOU for posting this!!
Thank you very much I am glad you are finding it helpful. Thanks for being part of the channel.
Thanks, I really enjoy your videos. This particular video is very helpful to me because I just bought a generator. Thanks once again
great video! Paul's comment is correct and might be worth adding. All of individual panel breakers should be turned off first, then you can turn on the ones that are needed and the sum load can be handle the generator. Of course if the generator is large enough to cover the whole load that is not an issue but even this should be mentioned. Just the same, great job!
I always turn off all of the individual breakers and the gradually turn on the ones that I'll be using.
Good job
I have the same generator Best generator on the market I think
I am putting in a GEN switch made by reliance 30 amp
Yes these videos are very helpful
God bless
add white or red paint dot/stripe on plug and generator at the angled prong. line up and twist.
I like that idea a lot. Great use for s small paint marker.
People needs to click on this link ua-cam.com/video/bQR0UyLv4_Y/v-deo.html to see a video about generator safety.
That's a sweet GENNY!
Great vdeo
Just an FYI to people who say "wow I'm going to buy a 13K generator and power the whole house!", with most portable generator interlock set ups you can't do it. Most generators use a 30Amp 120/240 connection to the house and a 30 amp breaker can push through just shy of 7,500 watts. THAT'S IT! So, you're brand new Duramax 13K with a standard generator 30 amp plug and interlock with a 30 amp breaker will only push 7,500 watts max.
Very true, people get caught up on those mega generators and I think most are never plugged in/hardwired. 7500 or less is the best size for a lot of reasons including this one and fuel efficiency too. Great points
But what if you have 50amp setup with 50 amp breaker?
I agree the interlock is the way to go. To me, those 6 circuit transfer switches are silly. Of course with an interlock, you have to manage your load and not try to run your oven or dryer!
Yes, very true. It is easy to forget. Once I had it running my spouse didn't even know we were on generator and ran the dryer......beeeeyuuuup. No power, hey what happened? :)
Sweet little generator! Thanks for the video!
Thanks for this instructive video, my home came with this type of set up but I’ve never used it. I bought 13kw portable gas generator, now whether to buy 30amp or 50amp connecting cord? Thanks in advance for your help.
Very nicely done.
I have the HONDA EU6500 connected via a Reliance transfer switch PLUS the reliance box of individual breakers. I like your approach better as it allows connection to ALL the internal house circuits rather than just the 10 individual 110volt breakers in the transfer box. As it is, I cannot use my dryer or washer through this box as they are 220 Volts and can't be connected individually in the transfer box.
The transfer switch is a much better option than the Reliance box I use
Just an update to my previous post. I have just come off a four day power outage up here in Ottawa, Canada where I used the Honda EU6500 for some 60 hours to power my home. What I found was the 10 circuits I hooked it too simply didn't provide power to certain other areas of the home we used. So I ended up using internal extension cords to power the TV's in the back bedrooms where we sit at night. This got very old very quickly. So, to make a long story short, I have ordered a $2000 Generlink transfer switch to replace the Reliance 10 circuit switch and am awaiting Hydro disconnection ($300 plus dollars for the permit...yikes !). My panel doesn't allow for a whole house transfer switch...
I do not ever want to find myself in this position again. This superb generator will power pretty much anything in the home other than the electric clothes dryer, and I can live with that. It is severely underrated by Honda and as far as I can see has the same capacity as the 7000 model for continuous use (5500 watts)
The way I look at it to justify this cost is its a lot like insurance. I spend thousands every year for insurance on my home and vehicles, and with rare exception, I get nothing for it. This little bit of "insurance" gives me that comfort level that life will be the same as normal during the next storm, AND I get the Generlink electronic switch along with it. My justification anyway and comfort in the home is well worth this cost at least to me....
I have two small Champion 2000 watt generators which have been out on loan for almost a week now and are still doing superb duty running pretty much continuously saving food in neighbour's freezers and fridges. One can not imagine how critical power is to our day to day living until you have been without it for a time...
sr in the teblet the main switch only cuts the phases the neutral no. when connecting the generator there is no problem with that. Thank you
Great video thanks
Also please watch this video on the link ua-cam.com/video/bQR0UyLv4_Y/v-deo.html it’s also about generator safety and it’s what you should really know about it.
Cant even get those larger EU Hondas anymore. Used, yes--but not new!
Just an added comment! Most will shut the gas valve off…letting the carburetor bowl to be run till the generator stops, then switch off for future emergency 🚨
On the Eu7000is in Canada, the L14-30r connector label is at 22.9 amp.
Does it means that your version can reach the maximum of 7000 watts, but the one in Canada can only reach 5500 watts ?
Thanks
How do you connect to the breaker in the panel? No one shows that part.
I bought the unit and had an electrician install it. Then ran the cable outside. You’ll want to cover and hide it if you leave it in place as I did. As the electrician said copper is becoming more valuable and people will steal them and they’re about a hundred bucks. Probably more now.
That way it’s done right. He also had to make foot long pigtail adapter to get the cable to make with the generator as the plug was different on the cable that comes in the breaker kit. Worth every cent.
When do you use the ECO Throttle?
When you dont need more than maybe half the total output. It just runs quieter, but causes larger voltage drops when a new, large load is plugged in.
Can install a combination of both a transfer switch and direct connect? For example, using a 12KW generator, can I connect the 50A outlet to the main panel using a interlock device, and, at the same time, the 30A outlet to a transfer switch? Otherwise, how do I get all available 100A into the house? Thanks
Those are inlets, and you need to see how many amps your generator will produce.
Mf made me think the video didnt load right. Thank you for the information though. Very useful
does the order matter ? should you turn off generator before you disconnect the cord? or should you connect the cord from inlet to generator before starting the generator?
I wouldn't mess with the cord while the generator is running. Plug it together before starting generator.... and then shut off generator before unplugging cord.
@@PatrickWagz Great advice!
I have a question I have my house hooked up to my predator 3500 and it powers everything but the fridge and if u have it unplugged the lights don’t work anymore it’s it’s bad wiring in my house?
Can you power your ac with that generator?
Nice video. What interlock plate is that?
I believe I have the same panel.
Thank you, I used this one: amzn.to/3Ys2rOl
Note to the rest of UA-cam content creators: Copy this guys style of making content!
Very kind of you to say, thank you
Shouldn't you connect the generator up to the house until AFTER the Interlock has been activated?
Shouldn't you disconnect the generator BEFORE removing the interlock?
No you want it connected first and running, before so that it can handle the load when turned on the interlock provides safety.
Great video thanks like to ask you how big is your generator
Thank you it's 7000 watt. We have a well so we need higher output to run that
Silver Cymbal Can you run an electric dryer with it? If you shut off other circuits? Thanks
@@DONALD1951 I'm not a professional..... but..... You would have to check the amp-rating stamped on the breaker for the electric dryer. If it is a double-pole 30-amp, and the breaker you install for the generator is the same or higher.... you should be okay. You also need to check gauge of wire too. 10-gauge for 30-amp.
I need your help because I was already unsuccessful in locating what I need. I need an interlocking kit for my panel. It is a Siemens GB4040B1200,GB4040B1200CU, GB4040L1200,and GB4040L1200CU. House was built in 2010 so it's not old.I went to a website but could not find the kit needed.
I'm guessing the lights didn't come on with generator power because you had shut off all the other breakers.
would this me?thod work with solar panels and a battery?
What about grounding the generator? Is yours configured as a BONDED or FLOATING neutral?
What the amperage rating of that outside plug?
So you just wire the inlet box straight to your generator breaker?
Yes, to a dedicated breaker for this purpose, its a regular breaker but has to be mounted in the upper position to work with the interlock slider
@@SilverCymbal oh I see, so feeding power to that breaker from your generator, would basically power up the whole breaker panel.
Hi. I have a 200 amp main panel and another 200 amp sub panel next to it. Do I need 2 interlock kits and 2 double breakers or just 1 set in the main panel.
No you just need one interlock on the main panel and the interlock will feed power the same way it coms from the street and will power all circuits connected to it. Obviously it can only put out as much pwoer as the generator can supply. but it can reach all circuits.
The proper way to shut down a portable generator for storage. Turn off the fuel valve on the bottom of the tank and let the engine run until it dies. This clears out fuel in the carburetor preventing varnish deposits. The varnish deposits will prevent starting the next time you need it. Very very annoying.
Except this model is fuel injected. Don’t do this on this model!
Unfortunately, most newer residential 200 Amp Square D and Cutler Hammer panels use a separate main breaker, so they can't be mechanically interlocked. This is because around 1990 the NEC started requiring that a switch "Opening and closing all ungrounded conductors simultaneously SHALL be provided to operate an additional supply source." Being a retired inspector I doubt that you could get one to sign off on this (even though it's safe).
I think you may be confusing this a bit. This is code approved and I have a separate main breaker.
@@SilverCymbal I did a little research and I stand corrected. These are made by the manufacturer and are UL approved for the listed enclosure. I quickly found the correct one for my own Cutler Hammer panel I installed after Andrew in Nov '93. None were over $70. A a wireman, I can tell you it's quite a labor saver vs installing a 200 amp transfer, new feeders, mount the can, etc. Very cool. Where were these interlocks 30 years ago?
According to the NEC you should unbond the neutral in the genset, as it's only grounded at the service entrance. This is what your other reader was talking about. However, your bonded from the genset to panel main, and your gen main isn't gfci protected so it's a non issue. You would have to reattach it to use your gen outlets! So I always leave mine attached. I always ground everything.
Those with "OSHA" approved gensets with gfci mains will have to do this to keep their gen main brkr from tripping. You just unground the neutral in the gen. from the chassis. Very simple, but if you skip it the gfci main will trip repeatedly. This is the cause of many 1 star ratings on Home Depot's website.
Where did you get the cable to attach the generator to the power inlet?
You can get those cords at lowes,30 amp 4 prong twist lock,25 foot cord is 99 dollars.
@@davidm.5727 Thanks David, I just ordered one from Champion directly. Much appreciated.
Here are portable generator safety rules: this safety information is only for anyone who use a portable gas generator and for those who are planning on getting a portable gas generator. This is just a reminder for everyone’s safety. All generator safety rules should be followed carefully. This advice is just to make sure that everyone is aware of all the warnings and it’s just to remind people to be careful using portable generators. Generators can be dangerous if not used carefully. Every year, hundreds of people die or get injured when using portable generators due to carbon monoxide poisoning and electrocution. Make sure you are using your generator carefully and keeping others safe as well. There is something very serious that everyone should always be aware of when using generators. Some people do run their generator indoors which is not safe and that increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning which can cause death of family and you. Some people run their generator in wet conditions which can electrocute them. Please remember that you should never run your generator indoors. Remember that carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that you cannot see or smell. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. Keep that in mind. Make sure your generator is 15-20 feet away from your house and away from doors, windows, and vents. Never use your generator in your porch too. Having a carbon monoxide detector is very important against generator safety. Some people also allow children to go near the portable generator which could pose risks. We need to keep an eye on our children making sure that they are not near the portable generator so they won’t get electrocuted or burned by the generator which is dangerous. A locking enclosure also keeps kids safe. A generator shed might look like a tempting place to explore, or take cover during a game of hide and seek, but a generator is a dangerous piece of equipment that can cause injury. It says on the manual that we should also keep children away at all times from the portable generator to avoid injuries. Please do not allow a child or unqualified people to operate the portable generator. It is important to keep your children safe especially little ones. The portable generator can be hot during an operation. Just because some manuals missed what should be listed doesn’t mean it’s safe to do. Always follow the generator safety rules when using portable generators. Generators pose electrical risks. If you need to use your generator during wet weather, you need a generator tent to protect your generator from getting wet. Don’t let your generator get wet. Keep your generator dry and before using your generator, please make sure your hands and your generator is dry. Do not wear loose clothing when operating the generator. Everything that is said on the generator’s operating manual should not be ignored. Never smoke cigarettes near the generator. Please keep flammable things away from the generator. Never overload your generator too. Your generator can catch fire. Never ever try to plug a generator cord into a wall outlet to avoid back feeding. Back feeding your generator is dangerous. Always turn on your generator first before plugging in appliances and shut off the appliances before turning your generator off. Use a heavy duty cord for your generator and the cord should not be worn out. All the instructions should be followed carefully. Never refuel your generator while it’s running. It can cause fire if fuel spills while your generator is hot. You should turn off your generator and let it cool off before refueling it. Having a fire extinguisher next to the generator is also important. This is only a reminder for everyone’s safety of using generators. Make sure your generator is properly grounded. Having a fire extinguisher next to the generator is also important against the safety rules. ua-cam.com/video/I1jT3ANENvI/v-deo.html and here is a video more about keeping others safe when using generators and also about our family’s safety. It’s important to keep your children safe especially little ones. Hope this helps. Thank you.
Where to Buy??
That generator is big enough to run your entire house? I don’t think so. For all you diy dill weeds out there, be sure to flip off all the household breakers before switching on your generator breaker. Then turn on each household breaker that your generator is capable of handling from a total load perspective. If you need to run something large, like a well pump, you may need to selectively run that separate of other loads by turning off certain breakers while the higher demand appliances are running.
Is this legal in Ontario Canada?
no
What would a electrician charge to install interlock kit?
The interlock kit itself is very easy to install. The plate is just adapted to your breaker panel. The cost can get expensive if you have the outside outlet run based on the difficulty of the run. For many years I never had an outside outlet and used the interlock kit and had a plug at my panel and used a long extension cord. That is MUCH cheaper to install. To answer your question though, I have heard total prices with an outside outlet will be between $400-700. But without the outside outlet it will be 1/2 that. Good news is that once you put one of these in you will be all set since it will work with any portable generator.
I would bet it would be less than an hour. Took me less than that, after watching a few UA-cam videos. It really is not that hard.
@@SilverCymbal Thanks any idea if you will get a chance to due a review on Tsurumi submersible pumps?
Hi, they look like really great pumps. Not sure I will be able to get my hands on one to review soon though. I reviewed their specs and they seem top be built VERY well though. Honda also makes submersible pumps in stainless steel as well. I believe they relabel them but they are very well made also. (Not well known either that Honda sells these)
I contacted a electrician for a manual transfer switch, inter lock and outlet with 30 amp breaker 1st one was 1500.00!! Second one was 1230.00!! And the third was 1150.00!! So I know a friend who can hook up the outlet the inter lock and the 30amp breaker for a little of nothing and all my parts were like 250.00 soooo!!!
Here's the problem. I love This method. However, Generators have the neutral bonded to the frame. Because of this The NEC requires a separate derived system. Which means all conductors including the neutral must be able to be disconnected by a transfer switch.
These are NEC code approved. They weren't years ago
@@SilverCymbal I want to believe you. But please show me the "UL" listed approved symbol on the interlock. Because what I see is a potential hazard is a parallel ground fault. There are now 2 main bonding jumpers. If there is a ground fault then the current has a parallel path that won't trip the breakers.
My email is eortiz7878@gmail.com Please send me a picture of the UL marking on the interlock
@@BBQPitmaster626 I would reccomend you look up the interlock for your panel and see what the share for documentation. I believe you will find what you are looking for.
@@SilverCymbal 250.34(c) says that generators with a neutral bonded to the frame must be treated as a separate derived system. That means all conductors (besides the EGC) Must be switched.
Good video, however leave liking and subscribing up to us. You don't need to "remind" us to do it. I KNOW how to do both and will do them if I feel the video is worth it. Those who ask or beg, it's an immediate thumbs down, and no subscription.