Electrical Engineer explains connecting generators to your home

Items discussed include whole home generators, small portable generators, transfer switches, sub panels, meter socket extensions, and extension cords.
Generator sizing calculators are widely available from generator manufacturers.
Your electrician, local utility, and local electrical inspector should all be involved in your project. All electrical work requires a professional and a permit/inspection.

[@A5JDZK]

Well, it's not often you have qualified experts providing good information. Thank you.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks!

[@REVNUMANEWBERN]

YEA, no telling how many of these I've watched and it appears many contridice each other

[@Jim-bx7vs]

@@REVNUMANEWBERN maybe theirs some contradiction into who has what ,what's important to me is most have prepare for whatever may come ,some may be able to go all in if you can afford a big setup ,some may just be able to afford the basic just enough to keep the fridge or the freezer running with minimal lighting just being prepared is the take away, food and water is a must have as well

[@thomasdunn8214]

Outstanding video with "right on" advice. Thank you for sharing your expertise!

[@abeortiz6385]

Fantastic information regarding home generators. Detailed, yet easy to understand. Thank you for taking the time to make this awesome informational video.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thank you!

[@d-money2018]

Great video! I had no idea that PG&E offered that panel installation, I’ll definitely take advantage of that. Thanks for the advice.

[@talkshow5100]

Excellent Video Richard. Thank you for an easy to understand pro's and con's of home generators.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thank you! Feel free to suggest any other topics of interest.

[@johngee9018]

Thank you. This may be the best, no BS introduction to this topic. I was aware of most of the info. But it is the first I've heard of a meter plug.

[@utubetjc]

Well done brother. I installed a 10 circuit manual transfer switch (all single pole). Circuits include tankless natural gas hot water, natural gas furnace, refrigerator, freezer, sump pump, whole house dehumidifier and some light circuits. Gasoline powered 8500 running watts generator grounded to a copper ground rod and I converted the generator to floating neutral. The generator is in a utility building 40 feet from the house connected with #8 buried wire. I had my work inspected by an electrician before use because of many of the comments you made. If all circuits are up and running the generator is operating at less than 50% load. I'd like to add the generator and circuits need to be exercised monthly for about 30 minutes and I use premium non ethanol fuel. You comments about maintenance are spot on. I perform all required maintenance more frequently than the manufacturer's schedule. Hope it's OK to share this, especially for the portable generators folks. Cheers!

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks for sharing your experience! Always ok to share videos, I have some more coming on the topic.

[@elgringoec]

The Generac system automatically runs itself weekly for fifteen minutes (unloaded). I can't say it "needs" to fire up that frequently, once a month seems fine to me, but that's what they do. I'm sure it was a logical decision based on multiple variables. Ethanol-free is definitely worth it, but no need to use higher octane. Regular octane does just fine, maybe better, and costs less too.

[@David-kj1vm]

Dig your advice and explanation....probably best I've ever seen and I don't compliment much because I expect excellence but you did an exceptionally good job. Thanks

[@richardvedvik979]

Thank you, sincerely. The requested video on generator neutral-ground bonding has been uploaded and I spent more time on this one.

[@scottmacglashin3059]

You broke this down so well, I really appreciate this video.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thank you!

[@bgingras1]

Thank you for putting good advice out for everyone. So many are teaching people to make a suicide cord

[@elgringoec]

Great overview. How the heck did we ever survive our youth, before op-amps and subsequently GFCIs were developed? 🤔😮 I learned the best way to prevent my electrocution was to let go of what was shocking me. I was wiring up experiments from the age of around five to seven. After getting shocked by the heat register I discovered I could make things run on one outlet wire and the heat vent. Amazing I survived! But good background for developing an understanding of the wiring system. Nice combo electronics and studio bench, btw. Cheers!

[@michaelpoczynek]

Thanks for this info, Richard. Well done. I have a Generac XT8000e, and after no power for 9 days after Fiona, I bought a Honda EU7000is. I needed cleaner power for the computers etc. The UPS systems could not keep the power clean without clicking on and off and driving me crazy. All ready for the next hurricane now! Have a great day! 😀

[@richardvedvik979]

Great info! Thank you for the feedback. Nice generator choice, I outline how I connected a Generac 8500 in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKPRl6KorZaofKs

[@larryfraser3788]

That was very helpful! I have all of my necessary circuits wired with an SO cord plugged into a receptacle. Power goes out, I unplug and plug into extension cords. Works fine, a little more manual work to do so. I also knocked a hole thru my walkout basement door and slipped PVC pipe with screw caps on both ends so I can Route a heavy cord thru without having to leave the door open.

[@richardvedvik979]

Nice solution!

[@davidphillips2541]

Great video, I just bought a portable inverter generator. I like the meter extension as a solution.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks. I also think the meter extension transfer device is a slick solution, if the utility allows, as it simplifies the entire process.

[@unwin42]

Thanks for the great video :-) I hope you'll post more like it on related topics.

[@richardvedvik979]

The requested video on generator neutral-ground bonding has been uploaded!

[@robertduncan2742]

Companies are not adding propain to homes like they did before at least our area. I called the company and reached NC area. Big companies are buying small areas. Also for gas everyone should run until the engine stops after shutting the fuel valve off. A great review

[@richardvedvik979]

Locally, I have to take small 20lb or 30lb tanks to a local business to have them filled. Larger 500+ lb tanks can be filled by a distributor. But I agree, shut off gas and let the engine run dry!

[@PatrickSalisMEDIA]

Great tutorial delivered for understanding.

[@richardvedvik979]

The requested video on generator neutral-ground bonding has been uploaded! Would love your feedback.

[@keithharrington8715]

As an electrical guy....loved your video. I would love to highlight a few things. 1) generator exhaust creates deadly fumes and creates special rules for generator placement. (A family in Orlando put the generator in their house during a storm and the whole family was wiped out). 2) Transformers work in both directions. If you power it up by backfiring (connecting your generator to the utility) you may power up the power cable the kids are riding over on their bicycles. You may also end up killing the people trying to get you your power back. 3) if you are using a generator to supply your panel and it only carries some, not all, of your house....try a colorized system. A dab of paint on your breakers that covers no breaker information. Essentials....green color. Essentials like fridge and microwave for food. Sometimes.....yellow color. Turn this on if you gotta have it, off if you don't. Water heater or window. A/c for sleep....as long as it fits. No stinking way......loads that are too big for your generator. Whole home a/c or stove/oven come to mind. Easy to remember and explain when you are not at home. Once in a while, test your system to make sure you got it right. 2 adage are correct.... It is better to have and not need than to need and not have. There are 7 "P's" for success and 2 "P's" for failure. Don't be lazy. Hope that saves someone a little grief.

[@richardvedvik979]

Great input. I discuss some of this in my video on bonding and have others lined up for execution.

[@christopherjohnpaul5591]

Thank you for the video. I just want to add one important tip for the DIY guy who wants to install one of those little green transfer switch boxes on their furnace. Some of the ones being sold on Amazon are NOT UL Listed devices. Some of the reviews even say they had components melt and short out in them.

[@richardvedvik979]

Great information, the original products are $100 and while there are likely copy-cats that are cheaper, we have to be careful and expect to get what we pay for. Loose connections are usually the reason for melting components, and a typical home DIYer may not be the best person to install them if they lack experience and training.

[@Jim-bx7vs]

This channel is the best channel ever on this subject matter, Richard you truly are a blessings 😇👍🙏 I use a 10,000 W DuroMax dual but only run propane 3 30# and 2-40# easy to carry to and from the refill station but since you mention it i will invest in a 100# tank and im connected to the whole house ,the refill station i go too uses a back up generator if they should lose power the only issue if it comes to a grid down would be the crowd that wasn't prepared for the outage,i see mostly 20lb tanks people use for grills but anyway thanks .

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks, how do you like the DuroMax? That unit really piqued my interest. We certainly want to be aware that the majority of people are not prepared for any extended outages, and we are likely best to stay hunkered down, relying on our preparation.

[@Jim-bx7vs]

@@richardvedvik979 love the DuroMax, I en

[@Jim-bx7vs]

@@richardvedvik979 love the DuroMax, i set up the DuroMax with other family member as well as close friends. Not saying it's better than any of the name brands on the market I was able to get the DuroMax thru the Affirm app no money down pay over time and the unit itself has not let me down ,bought a smaller unit 4800 watts just as a backup, your channel is a great channel on the subject 👍be save.

[@dirtydon8661]

Well done. You put out a ton of good information!

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks! Any content requests?

[@ezgeneratorswitch4u]

Richard...Thanks for the plug on our product! Let me add to your information, We have an approval in the USA and Canada from ETL ( like UL but bigger for those that don't know). Additionally our switch is the only switch in the USA and Canada that will let your system either switch the neutral or not ! So it will work with floating neutral generators or Bonded neutral Generators and meet the NEC. Some inverters need both legs switched because they are producing two 60 volt legs and neither can be grounded, our switch will work here also!

[@richardvedvik979]

You have a great product that solves a lot of issues with portable generator connections. Thanks for sharing!

[@MrGaborseres]

Awesome information 👌 👍

[@dwightsmith5174]

Suggestion - for a temporary situation or a permanent solution, get a Generlink meter base adaptor. Would recommend the 40 amp unit. I did not purchase the surge protection nor the wireless link as I did not need them. I did get the 20' cord with the 50 amp, RV type plug. It comes with a cord of your choice. Safe, very easy to use, super easy (5 min.) for the electric company to install. I have no ties to the company. I bought one and it's a great solution. Using it with my Generac standby genset. Simply plug in the cord when needed, unplug when done. Before contacting Generlink, I first emailed the datasheet info and request directly to our utilities director at the city. The city provides electric to our area. A week later I had his letter of approval! He did say that I had to contact his office to have it installed as the customer service reps don't know about the device.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks for the feedback. The meter socket generator plug adapter/transfer switch was one of the products I highlight in this video. The first time I heard of them was during a NEC 2020 Code update class where the book had an image of one. Most of us in the room were surprised and intrigued. Glad you have some first-hand experience to share!

[@ellistoney8745]

Except our local power company will not allow this product.

[@jstar1000]

I installed an interlock on my panel, put in a 60 amp breaker, installed a 50 amp shower power in outside and use a 50 amp RV shore power cord to feed my panel. I also installed a power meter on each leg so I can see how much is being pulled off each leg as I turn on breakers. I did all of this about 2 months before the big freeze we got here in Texas a few years ago where it got down to zero for a few days and we lost power for 3.5 days. I was a super hero for those 3 days let me tell you. I use a duel fuel generator I got at Costco for $699. Its been a workhorse. I also put a soft start on my AC unit so it will run it also. Total cost for everything was under $1000 as I already had the RV cord.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks for sharing, and nice work taking care of the family! Sounds like your timing was perfect!

[@dh-1399]

Great video as always Richard. If you feel so inclined, it would be great if you could please do a video on floating vs bonded neutral and reference voltage. I somewhat understand residential split phase power and why natural and ground are bonded in the panel but I can't wrap my brain around how a generator relates to neutral and ground (both the conductor and the thing I am standing on).

[@richardvedvik979]

Absolutely! This topic is important and not addressed enough. I'm working on it! In short, any electrical system should only have one neutral-ground bond. That includes sub panels and generators.

[@lrwhit6456]

@@richardvedvik979 My house panel is neutral/ground at panel. Does that mean I would have to find out whether a gen is bonded or not, and if so, unbond that gen? Or, will any gen work OK, as long as I don't try to add a ground to it also(?) .... What confuses me is that I see some gens with a 3-prong 240 female outlet (2 hots and a neutral), while others have 4-prong outlets, with the 4th prong being a ground. (?)

[@richardvedvik979]

@@lrwhit6456 There can only be one neutral-ground bond in the system. When you connect a portable generator to your home panel, you have two primary options. 1: use a transfer switch that includes a switched neutral. This allows you to keep the neutral-ground bond at the generator. The transfer switch can be one large switch serving a panel or a bank of smaller switches serving loads. 2. break the neutral-ground bond at the generator and use a 4-wire plug/connector, using the home N-G bond. Note that some generators will not run without an N-G bond meaning you won't be able to use the generator in stand-alone mode if you break this. There is a third option, and that is to add a ground rod outside the home for the generator and just bring 3-wire to the home while leaving the N-G bond in the generator. I am currently evaluating this idea and once the analysis is done I will publish the next video.

[@richardvedvik979]

The requested video on generator neutral-ground bonding has been uploaded!

[@codyrodgers561]

@@richardvedvik979 I needed this. Thank You

[@smittyone66]

I just got the duromax 12000 DX and installed the 50 amp transfer box to my house and breaker box, I’m just waiting on the inter lock kit for the breaker panel ( I had one but it was the wrong one) thanks for the video

[@richardvedvik979]

How has it been working (2 months later)?

[@smittyone66]

@@richardvedvik979 been going good thank

[@solarindependentutilitysystems]

Very important thanks

[@STRATOGARDEN]

It would be great if you would cover how you could safely run electronics on a non inverter type portable frame generator .

[@richardvedvik979]

Great idea!

[@spelunkerd]

Does a transfer switch for a typical generac also interrupt the neutral wire going back to the utility pole of the power company?

[@richardvedvik979]

It should if the generator has a neutral-ground bond. If the transfer switch does not have a third pole for the neutral then you need to break the neutral-ground bond in the generator which is ok because the generator is usually permanently connected and uses the n-g bond in the service panel.

[@Sparkeycarp]

All the Generac residential transfer switches I have seen have a fixed neutral buss. No way to switch it.

[@richardvedvik979]

@@Sparkeycarp Generac discusses neutral-ground bonding of the generator on page 4 of this manual, recommending a switched neutral kit if the bond remains: prod-generacsoa.azurefd.net/selfhelp/selfhelpservice/media/873ee9fa-f648-4513-9656-f93d71b55664/025831 Granted, this kit is specific to this type of transfer switch and not all transfer switches allow for a switched neutral.

[@spacecoastz4026]

At the end summary you didn't mention the option of adding a dedicated 30 amp twist lock house socket along with the interlock switch, but you did cover some of those details earlier. Don't always count on a licensed electrician to do the right thing.....just had my 30 amp socket installed....and I gave the electrician detail instructions on what new breakers to purchase and install in order to make room for the dedicated generator breaker inside my outside panel. He didn't follow them and instead put a 15 amp 14-2 circuit on a 20 amp quad breaker. Now I have to fix it.

[@richardvedvik979]

My follow-up video details what you describe with a twist-lock receptacle.

[@BrucesShop]

Thanks a lot

[@ChrisGerhard66]

I just lived through a three day power outage in Little Rock after a microburst. I operated appliances with Ryobi 40v and 18v lithium batteries the first day and Ryobi 2300 gas generator second and third. The batteries are used for yard tools and the generator doubles as a camping generator. No AC or heat but everything else was covered to my satisfaction. I have enough batteries to run fans, fridge, freezer, lamps, TV, phones, computers, etc. for days but it would be nice to have a generator connected to the whole house. Microwave, coffee maker, and George Foreman grill were handled by the generator and gas water heater handled by natural gas. I also have a 5000 watt generator which was used for power outages the previous decade. The Ryobi 1800 40v battery pure sine wave inverter was the workhorse along with two 150 watt 18v inverters and a 300 watt 40v inverter. We slept with Ryobi portable 18v fans. As cobbled together as that mess sounds, it works and the biggest nuisance was running an extension cord to the garage door opener.

[@richardvedvik979]

All of that is great information. With the prevalence of portable tool inverters for jobsites, that is something that should be added to my list of options. The EZ Generator Switch is what makes your experience a bit easier, since you can group up the connection point in a convenient location and just intercept the existing circuit.

[@drinkin-n-thinkin9913]

I realize everyone is asking--and a video is coming, but how does wiring the load center from the 30A Inlet box differ for each type generator setup: "floating neutral" or "bonded neutral”?

[@richardvedvik979]

The requested video has been uploaded!

[@Chris_at_Home]

Where I live the utility doesn’t want two power sources in the same breaker box. I built our own place and have a main break, make transfer switch for our main panel that I can power with a large fob remote start generator for the pump and other big loads. I also have a sub panel on its own transfer switch that has lights, fridge, freezer furnace and tv and internet on it. I can run this for over 10 hours on a gallon of gas. Last year we had a couple outages over a few days long. It’s October here and I just changed the oil and put fresh gas in them. I also ran them at a load. I’m not an electrical engineer, but I have over 50 years electronics experience from avionics tech, oil well tool tech and 30 years telecommunications tech doing things like gateway earth station, microwave wave backbone, fiber optic and all the different types of data and voice communications.

[@richardvedvik979]

You have your system handled! Nice work! An EE is just someone who went to school and the degree has no practical application on its own, it is up to the individual to implement what they know. I know far more non-EE's with practical knowledge and experience than EE's with any ability to use basic tools.

[@joaquimpipa4842]

I would like to see you discuss solar powered generator hookups, just in case gasoline or propane may become difficult to find.

[@richardvedvik979]

Note that solar panels with onboard microinverters still need the utility to operate. In order to use solar during a utility outage, a battery system with an inverter is required. I agree that this is a good topic, thank you! I do get into solar designs and there have been a lot of Code changes over the past few Code cycles as the technology evolves. There are some commercial products but they are really expensive.

[@Bare_Essence]

I really like everything you said, but I would have one comment about "a generator is a generator" statement. A generator is not an inverter generator. Both do basically the same thing, but the output produced is different. I know this only because I've tried cheap generators with amazing KW/$. They run most anything except equipment that is particularly sensitive to voltage consistency. I have UPS on my most computers, internet modem and router, and large TVs; mostly there for protection. However, my pure sinewave UPSs hate the low end generator voltage. They keep cycling in a weird way. Now, I cannot definitely state it's the generator type, just that they are cheap or that its not common for this with an inverter generator. It's possible that the inverter on an inverter generator may also be lousy at voltage regulation. Thanks for the great overview!

[@richardvedvik979]

Yea, I don't do a lot of voice overs nor do I have a script, I just talk, and sometimes I mis-speak. I try to fix with text overlays but I don't catch them all. Thanks for the feedback and input!

[@MileyonDisney]

Hi. Thanks for all the great info. I have a mobile home, and it just unplugs by the meter. Can I just plug that into a generator and only turn on the breakers I need? Also, I got a MultiQuip 5kW that has a floating neutral. Does it need to be bonded, and does it need a grounding rod, if I plug the trailer in that way? I've watched tons of videos, and I'm still a bit confused. Thanks!

[@richardvedvik979]

Thank you for the question and I apologize for the delay. You can connect your mobile home directly to the portable generator if you have a ground rod connected and you have the neutral bonded only once in the system. So the first thing to do would be verifying where the neutral-ground bond is located. You can get an idea of where it is by considering how many conductors are in the plug. If there are only three, then the bond is in the panel and you would need the generator floating. If there are four then the bond is probably at the source and you would need the generator to be bonded.

[@geraldarcuri9307]

Well presented. Could you do another video on using a transfer switch as a sub-panel and floating versus bonded grounding of the generator and/or the sub-panel?

[@richardvedvik979]

wrapping up the recording process now.

[@williamallen7836]

@@richardvedvik979 looking forward to it. I subscribed so hopefully KZbin will alert me when you upload it. 👍

[@eliv.8095]

Trying to install a transfer switch on my home .. I have to concerns that are unclear .. my first is that my main panel is outside and I have a sub panel on the inside of my home .. how would I add a lnterlock in my panels? If my main panel is outside and my sub panel inside .. my breakers will not be next to each other .. and my last question is where do I wire my ground wire from my sub panel to my transfer switch panel? From my understanding the main and sub panel can’t have a screw for the ground wire .. thank you and I hope I explained myself good enough for you to understand what I’m trying to ask.

[@raymondgarafano8604]

I did a two pole brkr w mech. interlock, Mains must be off to turn on gen breaker. it is legal. I think I have to seperate the ground and neutral at the gener8or as the house's panel is a sub panel and at 1st means of disconnect is where the neutral and ground come together and that is outside on pole under the meter, after the first means of disconnect, the code says neutral and ground must never come together again.

[@richardvedvik979]

Correct, only one neutral-ground bond is required. My next video will discuss how to address this with the manual interlock method.

[@gjlaird]

I'm going to back up my home electrical power with an inverter/generator. My generator comes from the factory with a bonded neutral so I need to do something to avoid using the generator neutral bonding along with the neutral bond in the home electrical panel. What if I just leave the ground wire from the panel to the connection box for the generator power floating - not connected to the generator? Will that fix the problem without having to modify my generator? Is it okay to do this?

[@donaldtumas656]

I have 2 EcoFlow Delta Pro generators. 8 x 335 watt Rich Solar panels, which I intend to use PVKIT-2.0 mounts on my standing seam roof. The panels will have bonding straps between them, but I am puzzled about grounding. The roof itself (30 years old) is not grounded that I know of, and the PV panels will be grounded to earth....however the grounding lugs will be attached to the roof seams themselves..which means the entire roof system is then becoming grounded when this is all put together. Do I need a separate grounding system or heavier gauge wire for this than the 6 gauge solid wire I had planned on?

[@richardvedvik979]

Sorry for the delay. I saw this question, realized it needed a longer response than I wanted to type on my phone, then I let it pass by. It is fine to combine grounds together. It is expected to bond all metal surfaces together, especially if those metal surfaces could come in contact with "hot" conductors. What is important is that the neutral conductor in a 120V AC system is isolated from the grounding conductor (also called the EGC or equipment grounding conductor). When these systems are in contact with earth, they are connected with a GEC or grounding electrode conductor. The NEC, or National Electric Code, has rules for both EGC and GEC. As long as only one neutral-ground bond exists, it does not matter how many times you take a ground to earth.

[@PowderMill]

I think they’re great for the average DIY homeowner or any home without a larger standby genset + ATS. I’ve been an EE for 30+ years but mostly in the RF world. As part of large scale public safety communications systems, power is a huge concern, so I moved over to the power side. In my own home, I have everything set and supply a few neighbors with a single 120v/20a circuit and receptacle per neighbor. The problem? I don’t want to be bothered wiring up “pigtails” to their heating system, so these seem like an excellent idea. It’s nice that everything is compact on a 4” square 1900 style plate, I’d highly suggest you add an “extension ring” to your existing box if it’s not a “deep” 1900 box. Thanks for the video.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks for the comment. These boxes are really handy and a safe way to feed hard-wired circuits. I agree that depth is needed, as a NEMA 3R In-Use rated cover.

[@gerryjimenez28]

Hi I have a westinghouse 14500 backup generator, I believe its a bonded generator I have the generator connected to my main house breaker panel with the interlock that makes sure that the main and generator breaker cannot both be closed and i’m using the 50amp plug on my backup generator is it safe to run like that or do I need to have a different ground setup?

[@TheKjowrph]

have a question. here is my potential set up. hooking up cord from generator to an outlet box on side of the house. the outlet box (50 amp) will be wired to my main panel in the house with a interlock kit. so do i need to make the generator a floating neutral? or can i just hook it up start it and decide which breakers i need turned on. confused about the bonded neutral and floating neutral. just need to know what to do in the simplest of terms. thanks

[@richardvedvik979]

Good question! I just got back from a BWCA vacation and am working on a video explaining exactly this. In short, you can only have one neutral-ground bond in a system at a time. That means we want a floating neutral for connection as you describe. I will explain how to do that, safely, and what it means for generator use.

[@melittlelad]

Richard Vedvik I bought a predator 9000 to run my gas furnace but when the supply fan starts it trips the gfci on the generator. Any ideas or input would be helpful thanks

[@avflyguy]

9,000 is pretty overkill to power a gas furnace. At most, maybe 8-10 amp startup (1000-1200 watts) but many fans have circuitry or a capicator to minimize spikes on startup). The CFGI is another question all together. Could be how you hooked it up to the gas furnace. Could be Generator - depending on *bonded ground* or *floating neutral* It seems majority open frame generators are mostly *floating neutral.* Call your local electrician. Probaly can talk you through it on the phone, or a quick service call.

[@melittlelad]

@@avflyguy thank you for the reply, I also didn’t ground my generator, could that possibly have something to do with it? I like the shirt by the way

[@dave8115]

Is it possible to power both legs of an electric panel with a 120V generator (3500 watt)? My panel already has an interlock switch set up with a 4 prong twist outlet box set up outside the house. I think most people are using 220V generators to hook into this type of configuration. My 110V generator has a 30 amp RV style outlet with 3 prongs (hot, neutral, ground). Could I build an adapter cord to power both legs of the panel safely by powering the red and black wires in the 4 prong outlet box with the single hot wire in the 3 prong/generator side?

[@Sparkeycarp]

No, you need two separate phases. Must be a 240 volt generator. You will ruin any 240 volt appliance you hook up to.

[@aeksinsang932]

The Ministry shirt is cool!

[@BrianMason3636]

I have an HO7553 Firman generator. I bought the reliance outlet box with the reliance transfer switch. My generator can be changed from bonded to floating. My question is do I need to change it from bonded to floating when I connect it to the outlet box that’s connected to the transfer switch that goes to my breaker box? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!!

[@richardvedvik979]

Sorry that I missed your question! I assume you made a decision since posting this question, what did you decide? Did you see my bonding video discussing this exact topic? If you have a transfer switch that switches the neutral, you would leave the generator bonded. If the transfer switch has bonded neutrals, you would want the generator floating.

[@makefitdepartment8621]

Richard, I purchased a new, old stock commercial 220 Onan 6.5 Kw generator with a matching (220 or 3 phase) Auto Transfer switch that I intend to connect to a sub panel. I have seen examples where the neutral between the generator and breaker panel are wired directly and other examples where they are connected to the ATS. When is it advisable to completely isolate the sub panel by switching the neutral along with the two hots and when is it better to hard wire the neutral and only switch the hots?

[@richardvedvik979]

I apologize for the delay over the holidays and into January. I recommend switching the neutral at the transfer switch and leaving the generator bonded, whenever feasible. I only leave the neutral bonded and lift the bond at the generator when necessary.

[@leovanorden4243]

Great video Richard and thank you for sharing your expertise. The safety advice is excellent. I want to ask your opinion on my home electrical system. Incoming power feed is connected to a 200-amp SQD panel. This is mounted on the exterior of the home, which I have learned is for utility company or fire department quick access. Only 1 additional 90-amp breaker is in this panel which feeds exterior pool equipment. This main panel feeds what I would call a sub panel located in the garage for all other circuits in the home including a 30-amp breaker for a portable generator. There is no main shutoff in this sub panel. Given the fact that the 200-amp main breaker and the 30-amp generator breaker are physically separated in different panels, what is your opinion on the need to install a lock out or interlock kit on the 200-amp breaker for portable generator connection and usage? Thank you again.

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks! In your case, yes. An interlock is definitely needed. My other concern is how the generator and sub panel are bonded. Please review my subsequent video on generator bonding.

[@matthewharris3338]

Richard: To safely power electronics (TV, computer) via a Manual Transfer Switch, does one need to use an INVERTER generator which I understand has clean / conditioned power, or is a traditional generator (gas, propane) acceptable? Thx.

[@richardvedvik979]

Good question! I am finishing a new video discussing this exact topic. You want to shoot for 5% THD or less. I purchased a gas generator rated for 5% THD and will be explaining why and how i've connected it. I bought a Generac XT8500EFI

[@emadalshakhatreh5383]

@@richardvedvik979 what if use ups before tv or computer

[@alexgenereux4704]

How are you liking the geneac 8500efi?

[@REVNUMANEWBERN]

HUM, never heard of the meter socket extension, does it work like a automatic transfer switch in that when the main power comes on it shuts off power coming from gen??

[@richardvedvik979]

It is a manual transfer switch that is engaged or disengaged though the process of plugging in the temp gen plug.

[@randallross5038]

Thanks!

[@abdulkkhan5095]

Very, very important for safety. Always consult with a knowledgeable and experienced electrician.

[@richardvedvik979]

Absolutely. The challenge for most people is determining if the electrician they consult with is actually knowledgeable and/or experienced. Just like all aspects of life and society, there are both good and bad eggs. Being informed prior to having the discussion with the electrician that will perform the installation is always a good idea. A good electrician should welcome the conversation and should appreciate a home owner that tries to learn more.

[@Larry77777]

Hey Richard: For my furnace in future power outages, I bought and I'm about to install that green EZ Generator Switch. My Firman inverter-generator's neutral is floating, according to its Owners Manual. So my question for you is: Which do you recommend: reconfiguring the switch to accommodate floating neutral generators according to the wiring diagram provided with the switch ... OR ... connecting a ground wire from the generator to the grounded water pipe of my house so I can keep the switch wired as-purchased? Thanks so much for the video and any reply.

[@richardvedvik979]

The instructions from the MFR are fine to follow if you plan on keeping a floating neutral generator. Just keep in mind that you want to label the front of the EZ Gen Switch that it is for floating neutral generators only. Feel free to save the parts in a bag, taped to the furnace, for later conversion back to the original configuration. In this case, I would just use a separate neutral conductor so you don't cut the terminated end off the factory wire, like shown in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYfFhop5eNljepY

[@Larry77777]

@@richardvedvik979 Thanks for replying! Assuming I DON'T add a ground stake, what is the role of the 3rd prong when I plug a 3-prong vs a 2-prong extension cord into my floating neutral generator and the EZ Gen Switch that I reconfigure for floating neutral generators only?

[@richardvedvik979]

The bypass instructions for a floating-neutral generator simply have you bond all of the neutral conductors together inside the EZ Generator Switch enclosure. The ground conductor, or EGC, is for safety - ensuring a path back to the source if any metallic enclosures become accidentally energized. Two-prong cords are used on equipment with non-conductive surfaces (i.e. plastic). Three-prong cords are used on equipment with conductive surfaces (metal). You would want a three-prong cord between the generator and EZ Generator Switch when using a floating-neutral generator with the neutrals bonded as discussed above. You would also want a three-prong cord between the generator and EZ Generator Switch when using a bonded-neutral generator with the neutrals switched.

[@fireflycanada]

I have a grid tied solar system. What would be the easiest method to connect a portable generator to run a handful of items like water pump, heat pump and some plugs?

[@richardvedvik979]

What I show in this video is easy and very flexible. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKPRl6KorZaofKssi=uCD77nDnxQwmmdho

[@danielsnyder2288]

Could you add a link to that meter socket extension. Having difficulty reading it in the video

[@richardvedvik979]

GenerLink and Leviton make it, as do others. Search for "meter socket transfer switch".

[@hubercats]

Great video! - A fellow EE

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks! Check out this bonding video and let me know what you think. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKPRl6KorZaofKs

[@hubercats]

@@richardvedvik979 : I also watched the video you referenced in this message and like the other one found it to be very helpful. You obviously spent significant time making the detailed, excellent drawings, and unlike some others, I had no problem viewing them (on my iPad). On a tangential note, when I bought my house in Seattle in 1980, it had a low capacity fuse-based panel and, for the most part, knob and tube wiring. Like you I chose a Square D panel to replace the fuse box and over the years I’ve replaced all the knob and tube wiring. I commend you on your work, it may be the nicest panel wiring I’ve ever seen. Finally, if you’ve not already done so, perhaps you could make your set of diagrams available as a pdf document linked to your video. Doing so might help readers having trouble viewing the figures while watching the video in real time. Thanks again, I learned a lot from both of your videos. - Best regards - Jim

[@richardvedvik979]

@@hubercats Thanks, Jim. Excellent idea on sharing the images. I can certainly place them in a shared folder. My previous home was built in 1925 and I had to remove all of the knob and tube wiring, which isn't easy on a multi-story home with lathe and plaster walls. I was able to get it done without having to cut up my existing walls, but it took a long time. The last phase was the first floor lighting and that was replaced when I removed the flooring on the 2nd level. This new home had an FPE breaker panel that needed replaced, hence the Square D panel in the video. I did replace that by myself, with necessary permits and inspections. I can do a typical panel swap in a day.

[@mogulsmoke2428]

Do we need to bond the generator

[@scooterscottii]

I see you are also a musician. Great video. I’m a home owner out in the country. Our power goes out often in storm season. I’m still confused about the actual hook up to the panel I have electrical experience but I don’t want to blow it

[@richardvedvik979]

Thanks! My other video on bonding includes connecting a portable generator to a home panel.

[@ipick4fun27]

If I hook up a generator to the main using a Power Inlet box (thus bonding the ground), should I purchase a generator with floating neutral? That is assuming I don't run the the generator as a stand-alone and simply using extension. Otherwise, I would have to some how ground the frame. What if the generator is already bonded ground? And ground is always bonded on the main panel. Would this cause an issue?

[@richardvedvik979]

I have a new video explaining all of this. Sorry for the delay, I took this question seriously and addressed it in a full video. I should have replied faster.

[@Jim202030]

Your desk set up is so like mine. Down to the rack style sound amp. . Do you have a 12 inch sub hiding under the desk? :)

[@richardvedvik979]

I definitely do!

[@wcjcnc]

I’m going to install a generator connection plug on the outside of my house with the breaker interlock on the panel. When using this set up I need a generator that does not have the ground and neutral bonded and also with a ground rod in the ground that is attached to generator ground. Do I have that correct? But if I want to use the generator as a stand alone unit it needs the ground and neutral bonded? Do I have that correct? Would it be advised to install a switch on my generator to connect or disconnect the ground and neutral so I can use the generator in either scenario?

[@richardvedvik979]

I have the graphics developed for the next video explaining exactly this. Doing the study on fault current and neutral current, you can simply lift the ground at the generator plug, from the home panel side, to break the connection between the two neutral-ground bonds. The metal generator plug case needs to be bonded to the generator ground, not the home panel ground (since those conductors cannot possibly be energized from the home panel side with the interlock in place). This lets you leave the neutral-ground bond at the generator. The generator will use the home panel grounding, and this is simply relocating the path to ground. While it is preferred to have a transfer switch that switches the neutral, with a back-fed panel we have to break the ground path instead. You can lift the neutral-ground connection at the generator instead, and in this case you use all four wires for phase, neutral, and ground, using the home panel neutral-ground bond. With this approach, you can go as far as to add a toggle switch at the generator that allows you to easily re-connect the bond for independent operation. I'll explain that process also, I plan on recording content in the next week.

[@wcjcnc]

@@richardvedvik979 Wait, I’m confused. I thought I understood but something doesn’t make sense to me. You said I can lift the ground at the generator plug on the panel side. I took that to mean I would not connect a ground from the house panel to the generator plug mounted on the outside of the house. But then you say ,” the generator will use the home panel grounding”. How is that if the ground from the panel isn’t connected to the plug. I’m sorry I keep bugging you. I want to understand all this. I thought the neutral and ground would both go all the way to the generator and not be bonded at the generator.

[@dboydb1]

My generator feeds a subpanel. This subpanel feeds things I need to work while using the generator and I need this subpanel to backfeed the main panel. It seems a mechanical interlock won't work for this setup. Is there a way to use a relay or any other system that will work for an interlock?

[@richardvedvik979]

The sub panel makes it complicated because you can't have a neutral-ground bond in the sub panel as it relies on the bond in the service panel. Further, you cannot interlock such that you can safely backfeed the home panel. Ideally, you would move the generator backfeed to the main panel and interlock it there, then you can safely feed your sub panel and the service panel. There are key interlock systems in which you could have two keys for three breakers that would ensure you could not back-feed the service since only 2 of the 3 breakers could be closed at a time. I've only seen them on larger breakers and not smaller breakers as the key is used to allow closing of the breaker.

[@pondacres]

Ministry Tshirt, right on! So anything special to do with a bonded neutral generation when connecting it to a panel on 30 amp breaker (I got a generac 5500w)?

[@richardvedvik979]

Yes! I made a video on that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKPRl6KorZaofKs

[@Raul-re7sx]

Thank you

[@rosewoodsteel6656]

Great video! I have a neutral bonded, Generac XP8000E generator which I hard wired to a Reliance (XRC1003c) switched neutral, manual transfer switch. Am I correct that I need to ground the generator to a separate grounding rod? I have the generator installed in a fan ventilated shed approximately 50' away from my home. Note that the generator exhaust is vented, as well. Thanks, John

[@richardvedvik979]

If you ever plan on using the generator in stand-alone mode then yes, a ground rod is needed for the GFCI to work properly.

[@rosewoodsteel6656]

@@richardvedvik979 I use it through the Reliance panel to power the selected circuits in my home. When I do this, I also plug a cooling fan into the generator panel itself. Not sure what you mean by stand alone. Thanks, John

[@farmerj490]

I just got a pto generator yesterday (bonded). I planned on using it to feed power into my house and also feed a solar inverter. Now I'm so confused how to make this work properly. I also just read an inverter needs a floating neutral. Any thoughts or will this be covered in the next video? I have a manual transfer switch with a 50 amp plug already wired in.

[@richardvedvik979]

OOOHHH, This sounds very interesting. Need to know more, there are a lot of components here. I also do solar designs but I need to know exactly how it's wired to help. By PTO generator I assume you mean you're powering it from a tractor or similar motor, correct?

[@farmerj490]

@@richardvedvik979 Yes, a generator powered by a tractor. If I lose power to the house I will throw my manual double disconnect and run the generator power into my solar inverter (Solark) instead of the utility power. This will condition the power to pure sine wave and run the house with clean power and charge my lithium battery. At least that's the plan. The bonded neutral is my only concern since I will be going through a main breaker panel to get to the inverter. I could alternatively wire up the generator "in" input on the inverter with a plug but the utility line "in" is already wired up with the double throw. Doing this alternative will bypass the main breaker panel, but I have 2 subpanels that have a bonded neutral and ground since this is a very old house (I really should fix that issue).

[@richardvedvik979]

@@farmerj490 Understood. Definitely, correct the sub panel bonding. I know it's a hassle re-working the grounds and neutrals to be separate and isolated, but it's necessary. For the generator you either need to break the N-G bond in the generator and let the gen use the N-G bond in the main panel or add a pole to your disconnect switch so the neutral is lifted also. Most home transfer switches are 3-pole for this reason. Breaking the generator N-G bond will mean that you cannot use it stand-alone and it will only be used with the home. You could rig-up an external switch or bonding jumper if you want to use the generator for both home and stand-alone use.

[@farmerj490]

@@richardvedvik979 Oh so if I have all 3 wires connected in the disconnect switch that is all that is needed? I'll see about rigging up the generator like you said because I do want it for both uses.

[@ronandmarg2011]

Hi. I have a small trailer and a 3800 watt generator. Our hydro hook-up is on a 100 amp 220 volt 3 wire plus ground 3 gauge cable that plugs into a connector box on a 4x4 post close to the trailer. I disconnected that plug-in so there was no hydro to the trailer and then installed a triple pole double throw switch in a new small metal electrical box with a closing door. I then installed the 3 hydro entrance wires to the top of the switch. The new wires from the switch center connectors went to where to original hydro wires were in the breaker panel. I connected the output from the generator to one of the hot (red or black) lower connectors and the common wire to the white wire (center of lower switch connectors) . I then connected the white and black wires on the lower switch with a jumper wire. This allows the generator to feed both bus bars in the breaker panel. Whenever I transfer the switch from top to bottom, I am no longer connected to hydro at all and am connected to the generator. DO NOT connect the generator wires to the house before transferring the switch. Of course you won't have 220 volts here but just leave those appliances OFF. Your whole house will be ON so you can operate any lights etc. as usual. Just beware how many things you have on and turn off the breakers for your kitchen stove, your clothes dryer, and hot water heater if it's electric. P.S. I installed a KILL A Watt meter directly on the generator so I can read how many Amps or watts I an drawing. The Knife switch, electrical box, and the meter are all available on Amazon. Get the 3 gauge wire at your local Home Depot. The wire from your generator to your home can be a 10/3 or a 12/3 cable with ground wire, depending on the output from your generator. Good Luck !

[@richardvedvik979]

Sorry for the delay. That is a very detailed situation. The biggest concern I see is that you're sharing the neutral on both 120V outputs and the neutral conductor should be up-sized to account for the extra load. Using 10/3 would help here. And leaving the 240V breakers off is also important.

[@robertheintz8017]

Richard, it is my understanding that you need a special sine wave generator to power electrical equipment like TV's and desktop computers. My generator unfortunately is not a sine wave. Could I buy a UPS, plug my electronics into that, and then connect the generator to the UPS to keep it charged? Thanks

[@richardvedvik979]

Sorry for the delay. I purchased a portable generator that is rated for less than 5% THD. Sadly, many of the portable generators available have THD between 10% - 25%. You are correct that high distortion generators are problematic for sensitive electronics. Sadly, simply buying a typical UPS is not effective because it will not clean up the original sine wave, it will just switch to battery when power is lost. The signal from the generator will pass right through a traditional generator.

[@roberttreadwell3252]

I have a honda 2200 and the neutral is floating.. I have a 20 amp reliance box going to an inside four plex receptacle .I have the equipment ground next to the box.. I wired nutted a ground from the box to the equipment ground using a wago three wire connector while the Honda was running I tested the hot and ground to see if I was getting 120 but only got 35 volts instead of 120. What is the best way to hook this type of system to a generator for ground safety . Also by just bonding the ground and neutral and testing , I got 120 volts On new furnaces the furnace needs to see a ground to start.. I have usually installed a plug on the generator with the ground and neutral boned and that allows the furnace see the gen in grounded and comes on.. In my case I ran a separate ground to the grounds in a j box. So is it best to use the equipment ground or not

[@richardvedvik979]

Sorry for the delay, not sure how I missed this. If your neutral is floating, then it needs to use the neutral-ground bond in the home. That means you connect phase, neutral, and ground to the receptacle and have phase, neutral, and ground to the panel. Where did you measure voltage each time? From line to neutral or from line to ground?

[@Sparkeycarp]

Hi Richard, I am installing a permanent gas fed Generac 24kw generator with a transfer switch. My question is if you have a main panel with the meter in it and there is no separate or isolated neutral how do you separate in the main? It is a Siemens C204B1200. The transfer switch panel is mounted directly below it with metal conduit. The instructions also say to connect the ground in the transfer panel to a ground rod. My plan was to connect the transfer panel neutral to the lugs on the neutral bar in the service side below the meter. Also the ground from the transfer switch. My thinking is I think I would be violating the UL approval if I drilled between the meter and breaker side of the panel to isolate the neutral with a new isolated neutral buss. There is hardly any room to do this in this panel anyway. Aren't all the neutrals connected in this main and I don't see where I can get stray voltage back to the house? I understand that neutral and ground are only to be bonded at the first point of disconnect.

[@richardvedvik979]

For a permanent generator like yours, you simply break the neutral-ground bond in the generator. Then you connect gen neutral to panel neutral and gen ground to panel ground. Only one neutral-ground bond in the system this way.

[@Sparkeycarp]

@@richardvedvik979 I will check that the neutral to ground bond in the generator is separated, thank you.

[@cargenerator]

Great video, can we share this with our customers using our CarGenerator product for emergency backup power from their vehicle.

[@richardvedvik979]

Sure, and feel free to send me info on your products for future videos upcoming on home backup and grid forming using vehicle inverters.

[@matthewhuszarik4173]

Great quality and the first time I have heard of a plug right on the meter. I will have to look into that. I have solar and a Powerwall for routine operation and I had Tesla put all my 120v loads inside the transfer switch and all my 240v loads outside so under most circumstances my solar and Powerwall can supply my home. So what that leaves me with is the issue of extended power outages during cloudy weather or the need or desire to run 240v loads while utility power is out. To address those circumstances I purchased a mobile NG generator. The question I have is paralleling my generator with my solar/Powerwall inverter output so neither is damaged. The solar/Powerwall inverter automatically parallels with utility power. Would it also automatically parallel with a generator inside or outside the automatic transfer switch?

[@richardvedvik979]

The high THD of the generator would likely be unacceptable to the solar/powerwall. That means the safest way to do what you want would be a separate transfer switch/panel for the NG generator loads or a way to ensure you are not back-feeding the solar/powerwall. There are some detailed discussions of why that is here: forums.mikeholt.com/threads/microgrid-with-generator.2562015/

[@matthewhuszarik4173]

@@richardvedvik979Thanks.

[@herbertcharles8606]

Hi Richard, I enjoy your channel, I have a question that's bugging me for a while, if I back feed a 240 volt supply from a generator with a bounded neutral to a 240 volt hot water supply that only has 2 ,120v hots an a ground no neutral , the main breaker for the house panel will be turned off and locked. When the 120 volt breakers circuits in the panel are used separately will the generator be looking for neutral current feed back to work properly, and will the circuits in the panel work properly using the panel neutral and ground.

[@richardvedvik979]

I haven't ignored your question but I have been too busy to sketch your request to verify. Soon.

[@carrottop3454]

So I purchased the ez generator switch and I have a Honda 2200 watt generator with a floated neutral. I understand how to wire this switch from the installation instructions but my question is why do some generators have a bonded neutral and some don’t? Is it ok to run appliances in my home through this switch with a floated neutral?

[@richardvedvik979]

www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/grounding_port_generator.pdf

[@bobrub]

@@richardvedvik979 This link is no good ...empty.

[@richardvedvik979]

@@bobrub just tried it and it worked for me. You can see the file path, maybe the www.osha.gov site is blocked for you? Or you can navigate to their Publications from the main site.

[@itzjoeylo4501]

I have a external generator connection to my panel with a dedicated 50amp breaker and interlock kit. Outside where my connections and generator is located, do I need to ground the chassis of the generator or do I have sufficient ground with the 240v 50amp jumper that connects the generator to the electrical panel?

[@richardvedvik979]

The ground contained in the 50A cord is sufficient. Note that I have another video explaining neutral-ground bonding.

[@richardvedvik979]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKPRl6KorZaofKs

[@itzjoeylo4501]

@@richardvedvik979 thanks

[@Joe-nc6yb]

Thank you Richard . I have a Duromax 9000i going to a solar Outback inverter 8000watt Radian .I am totally off grid so have no utility power . Do I need to ground my generator since the house already has a ground?

[@richardvedvik979]

Only one neutral -ground bond is still a goal for your system.

[@Joe-nc6yb]

Thank you for your response.subscribed. So are you saying I should ground my generator with ground rod ?

[@richardvedvik979]

@@Joe-nc6yb If you properly split the neutral-ground bond in the generator than you can use the ground rod (GEC) in the home. If you lift the ground as I show in my other video on bonding, then a ground rod at the generator would be needed.

[@troyd.521]

Can you talk about THD and generators? I have a 7k portable generator and recently learned that it can damage electronics due to “dirty” non pure sine wave electricity output. Can I do anything to “clean up” the output or should I invest in an inverter generator, I’ve heard they’re better for electronics but more expensive. I just had a transfer switch and interlock installed to power my whole home if needed (specific circuits) including my AC (after a soft start is installed. Any info is greatly appreciated!

[@richardvedvik979]

Yes, distortion is a topic I want to talk about. You want a generator rated 5% THD or lower if you plan on having computers, TVs, or modern appliances connected. For now, you can just manually leave those breakers off.

[@111coy]

Does my portable generator have to be a floating neutral if I have interlock system.

[@richardvedvik979]

Sorry for the delay, Coy. The need for an interlock is independent of the bonding situation at the generator. The interlock is to prevent any possibility of paralleling the generator and utility, and any possible back-feed of either.

[@davidrrodriguez3526]

Richard, this was excellent video to present various options on connecting a generator. I’m currently using a generator with about 4 extension cords. Using a 6AWG wire I have connected the generator to an 8’ copper rod imbedded into the ground. QUESTION: My generator has a floating neutral. Should I connect the neutral to ground using one of those 3 terminal plugs which has a 12 AWG wire connecting the neutral to ground? Thanks in advance. David

[@DimitriPappas]

With that setup, your AC output is going to have two hot leads with respect to your ground line - not ideal! Since you have an effective ground spike attached to the earth terminal of your generator, you should probably go ahead and bond the neutral leg to the earth terminal at the generator, so that your neutral line is at ground potential (0v with respect to the ground line), and your hot will be ~110v or ~230v (depending on your generator/where you are in the world). You should then also put a GFCI breaker on the output before your loads breakout, and connect your loads/extension leads to that. Then the circuit should technically be safe. Anyways that's my understanding, hopefully Richard can confirm for you:)

[@richardvedvik979]

I agree with Dimitri. Sorry for the delay, I saw a response but didn't verify. if you remove the cover to the generator (the round cover that is facing out) you should have access to the winding outputs where a Neutral-Ground bond can be safely made. I would not make that bond at the extension cords.

[@combatvet1100]

Dont have a meter on ,my house and have a 30 amp generator I want to hook to my electric system, could you give an estimate to install a transfer switch with hook up box?

[@richardvedvik979]

All homes have meters, that's how the utility company knows how much to charge you each month. A local electrician should be consulted for installation estimates based on field conditions. The transfer switch needs to be sized for the service amperage and the incoming feed needs to be intercepted. All of that effort/cost requires an in-home consultation to develop an estimate.

[@billycorey6101]

QUESTION IM BUILDING A BARGE CABIN AS IT SOUNDS ILL BE ON THE WATER FLOATING! I’m using solar for main with inverter charger system I’m going to use a small mini split so I ordered a soft start box to handle the surge hopefully!! But I’m wiring a 30 amp box also if I ever can plug into a main ? I’ll have onboard a nice size gas generator for back up for Bad weather or just need extra power and a small 2000 Yamaha generator just in case an will be for extension cord set ! Emergency! But my generator will go to inverter charger hook ups my generator the GFCI ON IT ARE NOT GROUNDED SO WHAT DO I GROUND THEM TO SINCE I CANT CONNECT TO THE GROUND? Or if in fixed location can u run a copper ground rod through water into ground? I have no idea? Any answers will be appreciated!! Thanks

[@richardvedvik979]

Neat question. Let me think on this one.

[@keep1treal61]

What size generator would I need for my electrical furnace? Not worried about cool air just heat

[@richardvedvik979]

What is the furnace rated KW and FLA?

[@keep1treal61]

@@richardvedvik979 not sure how to tell but I did find this. Volts: 208/230 Motor FLA: 2.8.

[@richardvedvik979]

@@keep1treal61 great. now for the electrical heating elements. there may be 2 or 3. there are likely separate 2 pole breakers in your panel for each element.

[@The_Happy_Aviation_Enthusiast]

⚠️Rules about generator safety: This is a very important announcement for everyone. It’s important to follow all generator safety rules whenever we use portable generators: Everyone must see this. This is just a reminder for everyone’s safety. 1) KEEPING OTHERS SAFE: Please do not allow an unqualified person or your children to operate and service the portable generator. Just because some manuals don’t say that doesn’t mean it’s safe. That is important against the generator safety rules. We also need to be keeping an eye on our children too. You need to make sure that your children are not playing near the portable generator especially when it’s running so they won’t get electrocuted. Generators pose electrical risks and they can be hot during an operation. Please keep your children away from the portable generator at all times. It is important to keep our children safe especially our little ones. Be aware of all the hazards. 2) WHERE TO RUN YOUR GENERATOR: Some people use their portable generators indoors which increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s important to have a carbon monoxide if you have a gas generator. Never ever use your generator indoors even if your doors and windows are open and even in the garage is not safe to use a portable generator. Not even at your porch and your deck. It is never safe to use your generator indoors and in enclosed areas of your home. Your generator needs to be 15-20 feet away from your house. 3)🔥FIRE HAZARDS: Never refuel your generator while it’s running. You need to let your generator cool off before refueling it and before storing your generator. Never overload your generator too. Never ever back feed your generator. You should never plug your generator into a wall outlet. Also never store propane tanks indoors. Please keep flammable things away from the generator as well and please don’t smoke cigarettes near the generator. Having a fire extinguisher next to the generator is also important against the generator safety rules. 4) GENERATOR OPERATION: make sure your hands are dry before touching the generator. Never use your generator in wet conditions. Don’t let your generator get wet. You need a generator tent if you need to use your generator during wet weather. Please don’t wear loose clothes when operating the generator. Turn on your generator before plugging in appliances. Use the right cord for your generator. Please do not use worn out cords. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2LNhWZ3g6qBrKs and here is a video more about keeping others safe when using generators Hope this helps. Remember safety first

[@richardvedvik979]

@@The_Happy_Aviation_Enthusiast Great info! Safety first is always important.

[@momeyerjr]

I have a situation where my meter can and main are on the north side of house and my garage and non main panel are on the south. How do I interlock in that case. I've been thinking about putting a magnetic key box in the main cabinet, you have to get the key at the main to unlock the lock on the breaker lockout device,which is on the generator breaker in the panel, then put the breaker lock out device/lock back on the main. There is a lot of back and forth, but all I can come up with. What is your opinion thank you

[@richardvedvik979]

@momeyerjr a Kirk Key interlock system is how we do remote interlocking. Simply put, one key and two locks. Key has to be inserted to close either breaker so only one breaker can be closed at a time.

[@momeyerjr]

@@richardvedvik979 Thank you

[@malcolm4200]

Hi Richard thanks for the great video, i have a question buddy, my generator is 4650w with 3560 running watts, 30amps 120volts, it has 3 prong twist lock output, but the input to the house has 4 prong twist lock, my question is, can i make an extension cord up for this if so what do i need and how would i connect the wires at each end ? thanks for any help.

[@richardvedvik979]

Hmmm, that is a weird generator output. If it's only 120V then you can't back up your panel. What's the model number so I can look it up to verify?

[@malcolm4200]

@@richardvedvik979 Hi Richard Thanks for your reply, the Generator is a Firman Model No is P03602 Thanks again for any help buddy.

[@malcolm4200]

@@richardvedvik979 Hi Richard i checked on Amazon and i believe I could get where I want to be using these 2 Items, L5-30P TO L14-30R, PLUS SOUTHWIRE 65172740. Though I would prefer to do it with just one cord instead of using 2, and so i wondered if you would know if its possible for me to make my own up.

[@mr9c1driver59]

You said never back feed a utility right after you talked about the interlock switch. That is exactly what the interlock switch does, let's you safely and legally back feed your house. Other then that great video.

[@richardvedvik979]

Never back feed the utility meaning the transformer serving the house. Back feeding the panel is going the other direction, into the house. Maybe I should have clarified the definition. Thanks!

[@DimitriPappas]

Ok so I understand that there should normally only be one neutral-earth bond on a local circuit. But code compliance and insurance aside, I'm just trying to understand if there are realistically any practical reasons why a generator should have floating neutral if it's feeding into a DB with bonded earth/neutral and is only a few meters away? What would the risks/downsides be of keeping the generator bond in tact in such a scenario? Does this introduce a ground loop? Also, since the neutral is bonded to earth in the DB, couldn't we just skip the earth wire run from the DB to the generator instead of breaking the generator's earth-neutral bond, since that part of the circuit isn't on a GFCI anyway and there's now a clear path to/from the generator's ground via the neutral line to the generator's own N-E bond? Thereby negating the need to break that bond altogether? Lastly: assuming we don't break the generator's internal N-E bond, which of these two alternatives would be safer: running all three L, N, E to the bonded generator anyway, or cutting out that earth cable between the gen and DB? Hope these questions at least make sense! If you have the answers too that would be really awesome :D Right now I'm feeding my changeover switch from a genset that already has bonded E-N, and luckily haven't run into any problems yet, but I want to know if it's really worthwhile taking any action to "correct" this if the benefits are more superficial pedantics than anything in this instance? Thx & Regards

[@williamallen7836]

The problem with more then one bonded connection in an electrical system is, that you create multiple fault paths. This can cause a breaker in the panel to trip, but the other segment to still be live with a dead short. Even worse it is even possible for the fault to choose the 2nd path and never trip that breaker but the fault still be present. It all depends on which path has the least resistance. It's complicated to determine which of the multiple paths any given fault may choose to take. Which is why only one natural/ground bond should be used, and should be at the closest point of power disconnect (breaker) This way the performance of fault disconnects are predictable & safe.

[@richardvedvik979]

The requested video on generator neutral-ground bonding has been uploaded!

[@DimitriPappas]

@@richardvedvik979 Oh wow! Will check that out immediately - thanks for sharing your knowledge !! 👏🏻

[@williamallen7836]

@@richardvedvik979 Yup, I watched it this morning. Thank you very much. Very detailed, and answered or provided information that 98% of the other generator bonding videos do not cover. It was the exact information I was looking for! It was very clear and detailed. So many of the other videos on the subject have either incomplete information, or a lot of basic electrical errors.Thank you again!

[@richardvedvik979]

@@williamallen7836 Thanks! Let me know if you have any other requests.

[@sweetsuccesstrading5097]

As far as fuel goes, it’s one of the best. Propane can be stored for Decades.

[@comodice905]

I have an old electri center sub panel in the garage with a crowfoot 3 prong welding g outlet 50 amp. Can I plug in the generator to this outlet and backfeed the main panel with main breaker off. Interlock yadda yadda yadda. Do I need to ground the generator. From generator to welding outlet is 4 prong nema 14 50 to 3 prong 6 50. The ground wire is not connected on the 3 prong plug

[@richardvedvik979]

Thank you for the question. The short answer is no, using the welding receptacle in the sub panel so would be unsafe because there is no way to mechanically interlock the main breaker with the welding receptacle. This means you could accidentally back-feed the utility or mix-up the sequence of opening the property's main service breaker prior to connecting the temporary generator or vice-versa when disconnecting the temp generator. I also have a sub panel in a garage and agree that it would be convenient to back-feed from there, but there is no way to interlock the two because an interlock in the main panel would prevent me from powering the sub panel under normal operation. My generator bonding video explains this in more detail.

[@comodice905]

@@richardvedvik979 insane bucko Congratulations 🎊 👏 bloke

[@ChrisGerhard66]

Oh and thanks for the detailed explanation about connecting a generator to the house. Not worth it for outages to me.

[@AlaskanMissions]

Concerned about common back feeding to power company. Is this ever an issue? My setup is. Main breaker built into meter enclosure outside. Main panel (200 amp) is in basement with no Main breaker on it. Sub panel feeds apartment in basement and has a Main breaker built in. It is fead by a breaker from Main panel. Would like to put an interlock on sub panel and connect generator to it through breaker at interlock. Seems to me I am still back feeding common to the main panel and from the main panel to the main breaker at the meter and out to the power company. If this is correct isn't it an issue and how do I fix it? Hope this is clear. Thanks!

[@richardvedvik979]

The safest way to add loads to a portable generator is an external transfer switch panel where each load has both phase and neutral switched. If you have a physical interlock kit in the sub panel where the generator breaker is interlocked with the sub panel main, then you won't back-feed through the mains but you have to be really careful with neutral bonding (which my newest video discusses). By "common" do you mean the "neutral"?

[@AlaskanMissions]

@@richardvedvik979 Yes the neutral / white wire. Thanks

[@billwhalen3688]

Can you make generac portable generator act like a whole house generator, meaning automatic on and off during a power failure and specifically how to make that happenn with natural gas? Any using natural gas that I have seen have a manual off and on for the gas. How do you make gas turn off and on automatically? Thanks for any answer in advance.

[@richardvedvik979]

Yes, it would be possible, if you have a transfer switch. The transfer switch is what senses the loss of utility power and then tells the generator to start, waits until the generator is stable, then switches to the generator source. You need to disconnect from the utility prior to connecting a generator, and you cannot automatically operate the breakers in the panel. If you just started the portable generator you would backfeed the utility, which is not allowed and is dangerous.

[@billwhalen3688]

​@@richardvedvik979 I understand everything you said and am currently using an interlock. What I was hoping to figure out was how to make the generator start with a transfer switch. More specifically how to turn the natural gas on and off on when needed and what triggers the generator to start. Does the transfer switch control turn the gas on and off and trigger the electric starter and shut it back off either by shutting gas off just shutting it off. Either way the natural gas would have to shut off.

[@1Beachboy2]

❓ I have a 4 prong on my generator and a Three prong in the garage . I adapt the 4 prong to a 3 prong. plug it in it back feeds to the house. Works great except for one rooms plugs don't work ? The breaker to those plugs are on the same side as other breakers to plugs that work fine. Why ?????

[@richardvedvik979]

Please, don't backfeed the way that you are. I recommend that you stop. Slow down. And pay very close attention to what you were doing. A three prong outlet should not be adapted to accommodate a four-prong plug. That is not the intent of the generator nor is it the intent of the receptacle. What I suspect is happening, is that you are taking a generator connection with two phases and simply ignoring one of the two. When you back feed your panel with a single phase, 120 volt feed, you're only feeding half the panel. The way that an electrical panel is divided is that each row alternates between phase A and phase B. When you backfeed at 120 volts you only backfeed one of the two phases. But the primary reason you that you should not do what you're doing is that you do not have a mechanical interlock to prevent backfeeding the main. You pose a risk to yourself, your home occupants, and anybody that could be working on or touching the electrical cables if you back feed your panel without making sure the main breaker is off. And simply remembering to do so is not sufficient. One of the things that I stress in this video is that you need to ensure that there is a mechanical interlock preventing back feeding the utility grid.

[@jamesa.w.parisho8189]

So I just purchased a mobile home that I am using in a completely off-grid setting with absolutely no power from the grid. I would like to hook up a generator to operate the home, there is a minimum power load as all of the appliances are propane and some of the lighting will be ran separately through a 12-volt solar power system. There will be a small fridge, an evaporative cooler and two window ACs. My question for you is where the electrical connection that would normally go to the power grid be, could I take the wires that would generally be attached to the power grid and instead put a 50a 220 male plug on the end of that and hook directly into a generator? Sort of to make it like a motorhome or travel trailer would be with its shore power connection. I would still have my grounding cable in the ground with a copper rod for the mobile home as it would be normally hooked up if it were otherwise on grid.

[@richardvedvik979]

Treating it like an RV makes sense. That would allow for transfer from solar/batteries to generator as needed.

[@SillyPutty3700]

Just curious is that "EZ Generator Switch" listed?

[@richardvedvik979]

Yes. It's even in the 2020 NEC.

[@30yanuel]

I know it is not the right way,.. but if i backfeed thrue an outlet in my house with all the cautions and safety with a small 120v 16amp generator only for one fase; am i not suposed to be able to switch of all of the circuits that are in the same fase that i do not want? because my isue is that there are not swithing of, and i have no idea why could that be. Thank you in advance for your response.

[@richardvedvik979]

You are correct that your process is a poor one. The steps would be to shut off the main, then shut off all breakers, then turn on the one you are backfeeding then turn on the others you want to use. I suspect that you mixed hot and neutral on your backfeed (since nothing is legally made to allow you to backfeed thru a receptacle) and that is why it seems like the breakers are not functioning properly. Getting the EZ Generator Switch would let you do what you want to do safely and legally.

[@j.lawrence626]

What set up do you run?

[@richardvedvik979]

I have another video showing my exact setup and how it is connected. And I'm working on another that describes how to modify a portable generator's neutral -ground bond for various scenarios.