I need to install a manual transfer switch for a portable generator. My supply house told me to just buy this ul listed bracket that connects two breakers horizontal to each other. They said to put the service wire on a normal breaker on the bus bar with a two pole 100amp breaker and install a two pole 30 breaker ( for the generator inlet) horizontal to it so that when one is on the other is off. My question is if I am allowed to install the service entrance wire without using the official main breaker and just installing a normal two pole 100amp breaker on the bus bar? I appreciate any help.
Main breaker Q.
- Thread starter aptman3
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chris kennedy
Senior Member
- Location
- Miami Fla.
- Occupation
- 60 yr old tool twisting electrician
You need to determine the available fault current from POCO and match your main to that.
kwired
Electron manager
- Location
- NE Nebraska
Some panels have an interlock kit that works with the factory installed main and you put the generator breaker in the 1 and 3 slots. Square D has this for both QO and Homeline both 125 and 225 amp frame main breakers also. Not sure about others but likely some do have something like this. Have used an interlock kit for Milbank meter - mains that have small load center below the main also. Cost is much less than installing a manual transfer switch especially if you were replacing service equipment for some reason anyway.
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