Two Generator Inlets

Status
Not open for further replies.
M

mkgrady

Senior Member
Location
Massachusetts
A customer is asking for a generator inlet set up to include two inlets. One inlet on one side of house and one on the opposite side. Seems he wants the option of not dragging the generator through snow in winter so he wants one closer to where the generator will be stored.

Wiring this seems simple enough. Both inlets in parallel connected to the main panel with the appropriate transfer hardware. My concern is that when one inlet is being used while powered by the generator the other inlet will be live. Having a live inlet with its male prongs doesn't seem right. Someone would have to open the flap of the inlet but that is easy to do. Any code violation here or is it just a bad idea?
 
As you pointed out in the post, 406.7(D) prohibits an inlet prong to be energized unless a cor connector is inserted.
 
You could run the wiring to the inlets through a double throw switch before it reaches the transfer equipment or interlock kit at the panel. That would allow the homeowner to choose which inlet is available while keeping the other one dead. A little unorthodox, but so is two inlets.
 
Cow said:
You could run the wiring to the inlets through a double throw switch before it reaches the transfer equipment or interlock kit at the panel. That would allow the homeowner to choose which inlet is available while keeping the other one dead. A little unorthodox, but so is two inlets.
Click to expand...

Good idea. I'll use it if customer is interested. So two pole double throw 30 amp switch. I'll have to look for one
 
mkgrady said:
A customer is asking for a generator inlet set up to include two inlets. One inlet on one side of house and one on the opposite side. Seems he wants the option of not dragging the generator through snow in winter so he wants one closer to where the generator will be stored.

Wiring this seems simple enough. Both inlets in parallel connected to the main panel with the appropriate transfer hardware. My concern is that when one inlet is being used while powered by the generator the other inlet will be live. Having a live inlet with its male prongs doesn't seem right. Someone would have to open the flap of the inlet but that is easy to do. Any code violation here or is it just a bad idea?
Click to expand...
Seems like the inlet closer to where the generator is stored is the one that will be used and the other one is just there for show and tell?
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top