temporary generator

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andy psenick

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What are the do's and don'ts of using a generator to temporarily backfeed a panel? In this case a power outage in wintertime to keep a furnace and a few lights operating.We have a 5000 watt generator rated at 46.1 amps at 120v/240v. Can a 2 pole 50 amp breaker suffice?

The panel is a 200 amp 120v/240v residential. Thanks.

[ October 24, 2005, 07:16 PM: Message edited by: don_resqcapt19 ]
 
Re: temporary generator

This can't be done (leagaly) you must have a transfer switch that intrupts the power supply.
 
Re: temporary generator

Andy,
You don't have the private message enabled, so I will post this here. Please don't open a new thread to add a comment. Use the reply button. I moved your additional information from the second thread into your first post.
Don
 
Re: temporary generator

Don't backfeed the power line!

The usual way is to have a double throw switch, or interlocked breakers or contactors in a separate transfer switch, but there are breaker panel covers which fit on main breaker panels which will accomplish the same thing. These have an interlock so the main breaker will have to be off before the generator breaker can be turned on. The generator breaker has to be in the correct spaces so you might have to have some rearranging done to make room
http://interlockkit.com/intro.html

I think some manufacturers offer the same thing from stock. Square D may be one.

Additionally start the generator before switching on the generator breaker. Most generators won't excite with a load already applied.
 
Re: temporary generator

one other thing is

Don't forget to connect both the neutral and ground. With no neutral, you will burn up things in your house from over and undervoltage.
 
Re: temporary generator

Pay someone qualified to install the correct transfer switch, panel, and alternative power. Good luck!
 
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