Kohler Generator Back feed?

[kwired]

I completely understand how the transfer switch works. I just thought that when the generator power energizes my main panel--that it will energize my new lugs on the load side of the meter--which runs to the transfer switch.

Look carefully at diagram posted earlier in this thread, if things are connected correctly there is no way the utility and generator sides of the transfer switch can be interconnected. It is a "double throw" times however many poles are necessary switch, with the common terminal being what connects to your house panel. That common is only connected to one source or the other at a time, with a possible neutral or off position depending on design.

 

[PaulMmn]

The problem is that Matt has a Meter Main, which means there's no place to intercept utility power before it hits the main breaker.

 

[roger]

The problem is that Matt has a Meter Main, which means there's no place to intercept utility power before it hits the main breaker.

There is no need to intercept the utility conductors if it is like he is asking about. In the first post he is asking about utility conductors run to an ATS before the meter main

If the utility power is brought into the transfer switch

This would mean there is no possible back feed when the switch is in generator mode.

The only issue might be the meter counting the generator KWH and the customer having to pay for their own power.

Roger

 

[kwired]

The problem is that Matt has a Meter Main, which means there's no place to intercept utility power before it hits the main breaker.

So do not bond neutral in transfer switch or get a transfer switch that is not rated "only for use as service equipment" and intercept the feeder after the meter main. If meter main is also the branch panel then maybe you have such an issue, unless it is capable of having an interlock kit to convert it to manual transfer equipment - automatic transfer you are out of luck and need either service rated TS or intercept a feeder to what you want to have standby power for.

 

[ggunn]

So do not bond neutral in transfer switch or get a transfer switch that is not rated "only for use as service equipment" ...

Isn't equipment suitable for use as service equipment also suitable for use NOT as service equipment? I've never heard of equipment rated as ONLY suitable as service equipment, but it's not like I've never been wrong.

 

[texie]

Isn't equipment suitable for use as service equipment also suitable for use NOT as service equipment? I've never heard of equipment rated as ONLY suitable as service equipment, but it's not like I've never been wrong.

Yep, it exist. Meter/main combos are one example as they have a permanently bonded neutral.

 

[kwired]

Isn't equipment suitable for use as service equipment also suitable for use NOT as service equipment? I've never heard of equipment rated as ONLY suitable as service equipment, but it's not like I've never been wrong.

If the grounded conductor bus is permanently attached to the enclosure without an insulating component between you will usually see "suitable only for use as service equipment" somewhere on it, meter sockets are about the only thing that won't have this marking, plus there are exceptions that can allow meter sockets to be downstream from service equipment though it is somewhat rare to see that happen.

Pump panels are usually marked suitable only for use as service equipment. I use them all the time on non service applications though - they almost never are used in a situation where a neutral conductor is needed and I just land EGC's on the grounded conductor terminals. I think some meter/main/loadcenters are also marked suitable only for use as service equipment. Most your general use panelboards and safety switches have a bonding jumper that is easily removed/installed to convert from service to non service equipment.