“Hooking up a generator” refers to the process of connecting a portable generator to a home’s electrical system to provide power during periods of electrical outages or emergencies. This connection allows the generator to supply electricity to essential appliances and devices within the home.

How to Hook Up a Generator? – A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the two primary methods for connecting a portable generator to your home, highlighting the differences between extension cords and power transfer systems.

Cords vs Power Transfer Systems

During storm seasons, one of the most common questions is whether to use extension cords or power transfer systems to connect a portable gas generator to a home. The choice ultimately comes down to convenience and safety.

Extension and Gen-Cords

Pre-Start Checklist: Before anything else, ensure you follow the generator’s pre-start checklist as outlined in the owner’s manual.
Outdoor Placement: Move the generator a minimum of 10 feet away from any openings to prevent carbon monoxide exposure.

Connecting Appliances: Options include running a single generator cord to connect multiple appliances or using extension cords from outside to power individual appliances.
Generator Activation: Start the generator and power the selected appliances.

Transfer Switches

Generator to Transfer Switch Connection: Connect the generator to the transfer switch using a generator cord.

Outdoor Generator Activation: Start the generator outside.
Transfer Switch Operation: Flip the main breakers in the transfer switch from “Line” to “Generator” power.
Selective Circuit Activation: Turn on circuits one at a time based on your power priorities.

How Should I Connect My Generator?

Extension Cords

Affordability vs. Power Limitations: While extension cords are the cheapest option, they limit the full power of a large generator. Choosing the right gauge and length is crucial, as using the wrong specifications can pose safety hazards.

Inverter Use: For inverter generators powering a few essential appliances, a proper extension cord is sufficient.

Generator Cords

Mid-Sized Generator Compatibility: For those comfortable plugging in appliances during a storm, investing in a generator cord (Gen-Cord) is an excellent compromise. This cord plugs into the generator’s 20- or 30-amp outlet and splits into multiple household outlets, allowing the safe connection of additional extension cords indoors.

Power Transfer Systems

Optimal Power, Safety, and Convenience: Power transfer systems offer the best solution for connecting a large portable generator. These systems energize entire circuits, enabling the powering of hard-wired appliances such as air conditioners, furnaces, security systems, and lights. Professional installation is recommended for transfer switches.

Easy Generator to Home Hook Up – Breaker Interlock System

In the event of a power outage, having a generator transfer switch is the legal and proper way to power a home with an emergency generator. Three main types are available: automatic, manual transfer sub-panel, and a breaker interlock. The breaker interlock system is a cost-effective and flexible option.

Generator Plug Type and Amperage Determination: Identify the generator’s plug type and amperage. Common sizes include Nema L14-20 (20 amp), Nema L14-30 (30 amp), and Nema CS6365 (50 amp).
Gather Necessary Supplies: Acquire a breaker interlock kit, a 30-amp 2-pole breaker, 10-gauge wire in various colors, a 30-amp power inlet box, schedule 40 electrical conduit and fittings, a conduit body, conduit glue, flexible non-metallic conduit and fittings (optional), and a 30-amp generator extension cord.

Drill or Find an Access Hole: Measure and drill an access hole, ideally close to the breaker panel.
Mount Power Inlet Box: Remove the front cover from the power inlet box, attach a PVC fitting, and mount the box to the wall using appropriate fasteners.
Test Fit and Glue Conduit: Cut and dry-fit the conduit, gluing it in place once you ensure a proper fit.

Wire the Generator Inlet Plug: Connect wires to the generator inlet plug, with green for ground, white for common, and black/red for load.
Push Wiring Inside: Push the wired conduit into the house, replacing the conduit body cover and sealing gaps with silicone or expanding foam.
Prep Breaker Box for Wires: Turn off all breakers, remove the breaker box’s front panel, and prepare for wiring by installing a conduit adapter.

Create Open Breaker Space: Adjust breaker positions to create space for the generator breaker. Move breakers if necessary.
Install Generator Breaker and Wires: Install the new breaker, connecting the red and black wires to its terminals and the white and green wires to common and ground, respectively.
Install Breaker Retainer: Secure the breaker in place with a retaining bracket.

Install Interlock on Panel Cover: Follow provided templates to install the interlock on the panel cover, ensuring the main and generator breakers can’t be turned on simultaneously.
Operation: Detailed instructions for safely testing and operating the generator, including a step-by-step power-off sequence.

Conclusion

Connecting a generator to your home is a valuable skill, especially during unexpected power outages. Whether you choose extension cords or opt for a more sophisticated power transfer system like the breaker interlock method, safety and compliance with local electrical codes are paramount.

By following this comprehensive guide, homeowners can ensure a reliable and secure connection between their portable generator and their home, providing peace of mind and essential power during challenging times.