Generator interlock kits

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nizak

Senior Member
Are the bolt on style interlock kits that attach to the panel cover a code compliant means for operating a portable generator?

My concern would be that the interlocking means be tween the utility and the back up source could be bypassed if the panel cover was removed.

Am I overthinking the issue?

Thanks.
 
nizak said:
Are the bolt on style interlock kits that attach to the panel cover a code compliant means for operating a portable generator?

My concern would be that the interlocking means be tween the utility and the back up source could be bypassed if the panel cover was removed.

Am I overthinking the issue?

Thanks.
Click to expand...

Are they UL listed?
But that hasn't stopped me from using them.
Beats a suicide cord that harry homeowner will make.
 
qcroanoke said:
Are they UL listed?
...
Click to expand...
Not required to be listed.
702.5 Transfer Equipment. Transfer equipment shall be
suitable for the intended use and designed and installed so
as to prevent the inadvertent interconnection of normal and
alternate sources of supply in any operation of the transfer
equipment. Transfer equipment and electric power production
systems installed to permit operation in parallel with the normal
source shall meet the requirements of Article 705.

Transfer equipment, located on the load side of branch
circuit protection, shall be permitted to contain supplemental
overcurrent protection having an interrupting rating sufficient
for the available fault current that the generator can
deliver. The supplementary overcurrent protection devices
shall be part of a listed transfer equipment.

Transfer equipment shall be required for all standby
systems subject to the provisions of this article and for
which an electric utility supply is either the normal or
standby source.

Exception: Temporary connection of a portable generator
without transfer equipment shall be permitted where conditions
of maintenance and supervision ensure that only
qualified persons service the installation and where the
normal supply is physically isolated by a lockable disconnecting
means or by disconnection of the normal supply
conductors.
Click to expand...
 
So if the homeowner is knowledgeable about the functionality of the interlock, are they qualified to use it?

If a homeowner can legally obtain an electrical permit and wire their house, they should be able to operate a properly installed portable back up generator system.
 
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