Using Generator As Backup For House Power

[John Suter]

As Bill suspects, the 400 Amp transfer switch size requirement is/was because
the code requires the transfer switch to equal or exceed the larger of either
the main panel size or the generator size. In my case, the main panel was 400
amp and the generator was 25KW (100amp at 240volts).

Additionally, in the event of fire, the fire department typically wants to
easily disconnect power so their folks aren't pouring water on electrically
"hot" wires. Therefore, before considering any generator and/or electrical
modifications to your property, check for the latest codes; especially new
maximum distances from the meter to the main disconnect(s) (if not co-located at
the meter); how remote disconnects/transfer switches must be "labeled" for the
fire department; and possible reflective tape marking for location "in the
dark."

Last, don't forget to advise your homeowner's insurance company if you add a
generator.

John


Wilhelmus Schreurs wrote:

I do not know how the figure of a 400 amp transfer switch was determined, but
here you would require at least the size of the mains coming into the house, or
the size of the generator, whichever is greater. (As John said, it must have
both legs AND the neutral, this is so that no unbalance from the two legs is fed
back either)
Also an automatic transfer switch is not required, but a transfer switch whether
it be auto or manual is.
The transfer switch is two fold as well, first and foremost it is to stop
electrocuting the lineman who is trying to repair the circuit, but second to
pick up a long length of line, transformers as well as other loads, you could do
great harm to your generator/engine.

Bill 84 FC 35 SB "$quanderlodge"
Terrace, B.C. Canada

----- Original Message ----
From: John Suter
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, January 15, 2007 12:28:00 PM
Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Using Generator As Backup For House Power

Lest anyone needs to hear it one more time, a manual or automatic transfer
switch WHICH LIFTS BOTH LEGS AND THE NEUTRAL, must be used to comply with many
codes passed since the recent hurricanes.

Generally, backfeeding the house through a "dryer" plug with just the "panel
disconnected, " does not comply, as that method normally does not also
disconnect the panel neutral from the utility neutral.

The penalty for being caught feeding any house circuit (versus feeding just an
extension cord) other than through an "approved transfer switch" in Florida
jurisdictions where the latest code has been adopted, is, the utility company
will "pull" the meter. The re-application takes up to 6 months and is for
INITIAL electrical service, which means; accompanied by plans signed-off by an
engineer/licensed electrician certifying the house/business wiring meets all
current electrical codes.

Learned these goodies from the inspectors in 2005 when I added a house generator
to replace the past "tried and true" Bird methods.

I also stopped complaining about the outrageous cost of a 400 Amp transfer
switch when I got the estimate to bring the 6-year-old house up to current
electrical codes.

John Suter

Currently Birdless

>

> Eric:

>

> Yes it is doable. You will need an auto transfer switch to switch

out the

> power grid in coming from your utility company. Then install a

buddy plug

> on your coach wired 220vac 50 amp and have a cable long enough to

run from

> the coach to the house to another plug wired to the auto transfer

switch.

> The transfer switch control would need to be wired so the default

power is

> from the power grid. Reason for the transfer switch is to keep

from

> feeding

> power into the electrical grid from your utility and fry someone

working

> on

> the down power lines. And of course, to keep the power grid from

feeding

> back into your genset.

>

> Safe travels,

>

> Ralph and Charolette Fullenwider ( iced in, in Oklahoma)

> 84FC35

> Ralph's RV Solutions, Duncan, Oklahoma

>

> This is done with back up gen sets at hospitals and so forth.

Check with

> your power company, they should have the info you need.

> _._,_.___

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