- #Transfer switch for generator how to
- #Transfer switch for generator install
- #Transfer switch for generator generator
- #Transfer switch for generator code
- #Transfer switch for generator plus
#Transfer switch for generator code
The National Electrical Code (NEC 700.5 and 701.5) stipulates that a transfer switch should be installed in houses with generators. (1) This is a summary of national electrical regulations.
#Transfer switch for generator generator
Why is it a smart idea to use a transfer switch to connect a portable generator to home appliances? After installing the transfer switch for the portable generator, you can run hard-wired equipment on the electrical panel, such as heaters, well pumps, or water heaters. In addition to eliminating inconvenient electrical cords, the transfer switch maintains the stability of a household’s power supply. Even if it’s just a crack, passing an extension cord through an open window can cause carbon monoxide to reach the building. Fire threats include pinching wires and stepping on wires. The extension cord shuttles between the pedestrian area, doors and windows, and various electrical appliances.
#Transfer switch for generator install
In case of a power outage, you can use the transfer switch to provide power to the circuit of your choice.Īfter installing a safe and compliant transfer switch, you will not need to install an extension cord for each unit. Under normal conditions, the transfer switch is installed near the electrical panel, between your house and the generator. What is a transfer switch?īasically, a transfer switch transfers power between two electrical sources.
#Transfer switch for generator how to
This article will explain what a transfer switch is, the different types of transfer switches, and how to choose the correct transfer switch for your building. When installing the transfer switch, not only must safety measures be taken, but also relevant house laws and regulations must be observed. Second, if you’re running a generator to your panel without an interlock device, you can send electricity back into power lines as utility crews are working on them, potentially electrocuting those essential workers.Do you want to connect a portable generator to the home as a backup power source? In this case, it is necessary to install a transfer switch. CR never recommends this approach for two reasons.įirst, if you’re powering your house with a generator and the power comes back on from the street, you can overload the wiring in your home and fry your electronics. Technically, you can connect a generator to your circuit panel without an interlock, but it’s dangerous and, in many cases, illegal.
#Transfer switch for generator plus
You’ll have to pay $50 to $150 for the kit, plus $400 to $800 for labor, which is a lot less than you’d pay for a transfer switch. Thus, power flows in only one direction.Īn electrician can tell you whether an interlock meets local building codes and whether it will work with your electrical system. Once utility power is back, you slide the interlock back to its usual position. When in place, the interlock covers your service panel’s main cutoff switch, so you can’t switch it on while the generator is running. The interlock device itself is a metal bracket installed on your panel. But rather than connecting to a transfer switch, the outdoor outlet connects directly to your existing circuit panel. The idea is similar: When the power goes out, you plug your generator into the same outdoor outlet. Plan on a cost of $500 to $1,500 for the switch, including installation, which usually takes less than a day.Īnd plan early-even if you already have a generator, it can be hard to find service pros when there’s a big storm in the forecast.Īn interlock kit is a less expensive alternative. A transfer switch allows you to power any of those-and skip the extension cords.
You won’t be able to connect anything that’s hardwired to your circuit panel, like a furnace or an air conditioner compressor, and you’re also out of luck if you have an electric range or dryer, because both use large, 220-volt, four-prong plugs. Keep in mind, too, that without a transfer switch, you can power only electronics that have a standard plug. And yes, multiple cords: Because they can be overloaded, you’ll need a dedicated cord for anything that draws a lot of power, such as a space heater or window air conditioner. Without this switch installed, you’ll need to run outdoor-rated extension cords from your generator into the house.
Heating and cooling equipment are essential, as are water heaters and well pumps. The electrician can help you figure out which circuits you’ll want to power in an outage. The switch itself is installed by an electrician, usually alongside your main circuit breaker panel. When electric service is out in your area, you plug your portable generator into an outdoor outlet that’s connected, through the house, to a transfer switch inside. Think of a transfer switch as a miniature circuit breaker panel that draws electricity from your generator instead of from the power company.
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