How to Power your House with an Inverter/Generator During a Power Outage Part 1/3

In this video series I describe how you can safely and inexpensively power your house with an inverter during a power outage by using only existing house wiring. Please see my video on how HOT to connect an inverter to your House Mains to see some common problems people run into when attempting this. The method shown here works well, but please check local codes/regulations before attempting.
I cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information or improper use of this information. I assume no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Be sure to read and follow all safety instructions for any equipment seen or implied in this video, and use safe practices when working with potentially dangerous equipment. No information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user.

[@ducatirottie]

Dude!!! You are the man! I've never seen a tutorial covering this topic simplified so well. Excellent video!!!

[@kevfromnorwichUKGGKev]

Nice to see the backfeed warning. a lot of folk even to this day omit that from inverter videos.

[@GoingOffGrid101]

I have just been learning this i knew that i was energizing only one half of my panel, and your are explaining it very well thank you for this, cant wait till part 2!!!

[@sportyhog69]

In Aus we have 240 volts that makes hooking up in power outages easy. Of course as you stated early in the video it is vitally important to ISOLATE THE MAIN POWER SUPPLY INLET BEFORE CONNECTING ANY INVERTER. We also have 3 phase 415 volts for industrial use. cheers big ears.

[@curtchase3730]

At the very end of your video you talked about using 2 inverters and one of the reasons not to was because of the synchronization issue. Yep, true. I took 2 cheapie low power inverters and stuck a probe from a volt meter into the "hots" of each inverter both running and got the same results! A swing between 0 and 240 volts! Crazy. I have heard of some special inverters that can be tied together with a special patch cord that will force them to sync up. Then each one would be like a L1 and L2 like the grid. Cool.

[@JACK32767]

I actually understood what you said :) I used to be an HVAC mechanic. So I have replaced a little wire to get a system running. Was just thinking to power my own house temporarily during a power outage. If I had all essential equipment (fridge, furnace, a few lights) on the same phase. I could add a breaker to the panel on that phase to feed power from a generator into the house. Naturally the main circuit breaker would always be off till commercial power is restored and my generator has been disconnected from the panel.

[@phopk6398]

Great video. I am glad to see the spread of knowledge. There are a few comments I have. It is worth mentioning that the type of backfired you are using also violates the contract with your utility provider. You cannot have parallel supply with the Utility unless you abide by NEC Art. 705 and have an agreement with the Utility. In simple terms, the poor mans way is illegal. Just putting that out there for what it's worth. I am glad you talked about the neutral. In inverters that sync with the grid voltage, the neutral is only a sensing circuit and not current carrying conductor. When it is a current carrying conductor, there are issues.

[@marktheamerican4162]

Thanks you’re now talking about what I was thinking about !

[@Charlotte_TSilva]

Outstanding video. Love all your videos. Thank you.

[@shawnkim4598]

thank you sir I love the way you simplify it!

[@kencrane6420]

Well done sir! I have never seen anyone else explain this so well.

[@jonseason8170]

This is dangerous, illegal and horrible advice. Be warned.

[@stevenknight993]

Loved this info tube show. PROFESSIONALLY Put a PIG connection (220 female) on the garage with a transfer switch and box with enough switches to run the 2 baths, living room, and 4 bedrooms lights & plugs. Plus the fridge - with my propane generator for as long as the canned propane lasts (read 9000 watt generator w/ 20 horses - a gas hog for the PIG!). Then I went looking for a double 220 female (suicide type - to no avail either - I have to make it myself if I get the guts) plug - so I could plug in - or figure out how to get the system to run with my four separate solar type generators. I have some 14 - 285 watt panels on the roof (Solar World) that the county electric company has me hostage via the "smart meter" for dummies. Now with your videos and my playing around in "seniorhood" (read childhood redone) I'm trying to avoid electrifying myself like a Christmas tree with some 4 inverters (both types pue & modified), 7 AGM batteries, 10 separate solar panels and such fuses and switches to save my bacon before I cook it. I have learned to make all kinds of electrical connections. Thank GOD when I was younger I wired many garages for myself and family members. I love plugs and switches and LOTS of lights - especially the new LED 4-foots that switch out from Costco. My question to you is if you got through all my baloney above - is name me three very good inverters that you would buy for long term heavy duty work in the 2000 to 3000 watt range - I would like ones that could run a fridge if possible. Double sided - like YOURS!

[@RethanHunter]

Great Video! I cant wait to get to your other videos. You now have a new Subscriber, thanks for the info!

[@samhouston4326]

Very easy to follow explanation. Great job! Fingers - the poor man's voltage testers. Mine clip out at about 480VAC 3-phase.

[@911pat144]

Great video. Might be dangerous but i got a problem solved watching it. Thank you.

[@trashnomancer]

Thanks much, basement is flooding, and thought this would work... Thanks for going through all the details! May not be swimming by morning!

[@knurlgnar24]

If you're in that situation I'd personally run an extension cord directly to your pump. That's just what I'd do though.

[@trashnomancer]

@@knurlgnar24 I am without grid power for the foreseeable future, so, I needed to do this anyways. The pump I use is very tiny, and over 100' from the inverter, and though I may have 100' of extension cord, the suicide cord got me half way there by using the house. Everything worked out fine. Still have some cleanup to do, but at least there is no further problems coming. Cashless and off grid, with very little power infrustructure can provide some very educational problems.

[@brucewayne-cave]

Outstanding TIP ! Thanks

[@f.w.1318]

This has been a very helpful video, our rental home is two stories, however the breaker box had each circuit skip, one would be down stairs, next one down on upstairs, then down stairs, and so on, makes sense now when they build the home. They put one phase upstairs and the other phase downstairs, Im guessing to isolate all the wall plugs, it looked very confusing seeing all the labels, the circuits where not in order of the flow in the home, thanks knurlgnar, so how can one go about purchase a pure sin wave inverters, without a live n/ground? Also if i ever want to power my house once its vacant (its a rental dont live in it) i would only need 1, 120 volt back feed cable for the first floor on any plug correct? I dont need power upstairs, thanks again

[@davidyummus6259]

Ahhhh,... Thanks for explaining the mixing of phase 1 & phase 2 on the breaker panel :) I also thought that one Hot wire fed one side & the other Hot wire fed the other side but by you explaining that they mix & stagger, I now see how back feeding via & Dryer outlet will supply power to BOTH sides & ALL Breakers ;) Thanks :)

[@jonseason8170]

This is extremely dangerous, both to you and the lineman working on downed lines. It will also cancel your homeowner's insurance, and the electrical company will pull your meter if they find out. Rightly so. Don't do it.

[@davidyummus6259]

It's not dangerous if you use your brain & disconnect from the grid by switching off the main breaker :) The Electric company won't "pull my meter" because they want my cash each month :) Try telling someone that has been without power for several weeks due to a storm, to NOT do it ! You can back feed through a 240 volt Clothes Dryer outlet to supply the whole panel & it runs through the breaker.

[@jonseason8170]

Why don't you give it a try? Call your electric company can tell them that you backfeed, that you're going to do it no matter what they say and that it's fine because you (and anyone else in your house) always remember to turn off the main breaker and promise to never mess up. See what happens, please. Can you upload your conversation to KZbin? I'd enjoy listening to that. Hypothetical person without power for several weeks: DON'T DO IT. Plug your needed appliances directly into your generator - it'll get you by. Get a transfer switch and do it properly if you want, before you accidentally kill a lineman, kill a family member with the suicide cord you just made (whoops - forgot about the danger in that I guess - I wonder what else you didn't think of when you decided that you're smarter than the electrical code), or end up sleeping in your in-laws basement when your house burns down from a loose connection and your insurance company won't pay your claim (they won't). You are now someone who knows just enough to be dangerous.

[@n3lee]

I've enjoyed all of your videos; including the mini generator you built! great job! My only input / advice would be a to go through the trouble of adding an appropriate rated NEMA L-14-20/30/50amp locking receptacle and inverter cord. This is less than $150 in parts and pieces; and when coupled with a simple mechanical interlock; will make your installation meet local and national code for positive mechanical interlock... Most of all; it'll keep your equipment isolated and linemen; neighbors, family, and first responders safe while dealing with the situation surrounding your power outage! :)

[@knurlgnar24]

That is good advice and I will do some research on interlock options. Unfortunately my basement plans have me filling up all but one of the breaker positions so I don't have much room left for additional items in my panel.

[@n3lee]

***** I am in a similar situation; my 2500 sq ft cape has a full 50 breakers; every single outlet in my house is home-run! I am also "tapped out" on breakers; but plan on utilizing a method which is compliant with NFPA 70 (Nat'l Elec. Code) -- I also am working on a generator controller which will electrically start a generator for the purpose of float-charging or bulk-charging batteries; will pass that info along too. - edited; typo on # of breakers

[@MiamiWebDesign]

Hey Knurl, question for you. I need to connect my generator outside to a transfer switch next to my main panel but I have no way to run a cable from one to the other. Is it ok to swap out a wall outlet in my patio with an inlet and connect the generator to it, then disconnect that old old wall outlet's cable from its corresponding breaker and connect that cable to the transfer switch? Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[@bobbrooks80]

My way was to put a welding outlet in my garage and use that to backfeed into the house from my generator. Outlet is 50 amp, the generator is outside and no wiring or worrying about phases. Step one turn off main breaker, step two plug generator into outlet and step three start generator. I ran my house that way for 15 days after being hit with a tornado three years ago.

[@dougbarrett7803]

been watching you're videos and have a question about grid tie inverters would you know how to by pass the island block on say an inphase 250 I would like to use this in a off grid application to heat water by using a regular inverter the alarm keeps going off so I figured a grid tie converted would work

[@tedtw]

I looked at all the invertors on the market for backup, and settled for a 9KW with wireless remote starting. Generator outputs 120V/240V that powers both sides of the breaker panel, bringing everything in the entire home to life. Costing less than $1k; there are no battery banks. Runs about 11 hours on one fueling. Invertors draw heavy DC current. 4 cans of gas = 4 days and nights of powering everything in your home. Great for ice storms. During a ice storm in Virginia several years ago on Christmas day, I completely powered up my mother's home. We had a regular Christmas dinner that holiday and all the relatives came over. Generator in the back yard I connected to her breaker panel powered all the lighting, the oil burner for heat, a fridge, freezer and her electric range. Every 11 hours I shut it down and poured in 4 gallons of fuel, and restarted it. Yes it was noisy, but well worth it. A comment someone made below about 48V is a good idea; the closer the DC voltage to the invertor is to 120V, the more efficient the invertor will be. If you had a invertor that could operate on 150VDC, you wouldn't need a transformer in the invertor. A 1000W invertor will pull approximately 100A from the battery bank when running at full load, not including invertor efficiency losses. Forget about starting most AC motors with it; many motors running on 120V can have inrush currents of 2x to 4x their running current rating which can trip a breaker in the invertor (if it has one.) Garage door openers also have this problem - note that you didn't see him lower the garage door during the video. Invertors are best a running lighting and very light electronic loads. But when the batteries die, they die! Trying to charge invertor batteries from a vehicle while the invertor load is running is a risky proposition - connecting your battery and alternator to such a heavy load could create a spike that could destroy the alternator. Now you'll be out about $500 and be sitting in the dark, with a vehicle that won't charge it's own battery and may not start.

[@stevenshizzle]

I like your style.

[@cyclopathic998]

Have you looked into using line conditioners like Tripp Lite LC series to clean up modified sine wave output? thnx

[@ForwardWolf-Hobbies]

So, If you had use the 220 dryer connection you would have to trip the main,and all non used breakers? I plan to buy a pure sign invert.....and some batteries, as i live on the gulf and bad weather. Only needing to run a couple fans( for the night till I see the drain on the batteries). Would you use a bigger gauge wire for the 220 to 110 suicide cable? Thanx

[@mewantbrains]

What if you got a 240V inverter and connected the active and neutral to the 2 actives on the fuse box and the ground to the ground/neutral on the fuse box? Wouldn't you be able to power both phases and the 240v circuits as a bonus? Or would everything just catch fire and explode

[@lanceladewig2793]

I have an off grid cabin Im wiring with a simple circuit of outlets that can be powered by the generator. Id also like to be able to power with a "suicide cord"should the first outlet I plug into be a gfci there in protecting the rest of the line?

[@CatalinCiprian]

good job. thank you

[@RileyTheMonster299]

That solved the problem this man was having check it out and you'll get what I'm saying

[@gsmgsa]

Hi! I see your way of thinking helps in understanding most of the stuff you are experimentig on in terms of inverters. How about turning a grid-tie one into an offgrid inverter? Can it be done? Using just the power stage controlled by a small signal that comes ... say from a cheaper but a true sine wave inverter microcontroller. Grid-tie inverters sell much much cheaper on E-bay nowadays.. Waiting for your opinion about that. :)

[@waterlubber]

Our family did this during hurricane sandy...not even a suicide cable, we literally just twisted the ends. However we only connected one circuit (the boiler) for heat. We have a gas boiler, so it doesn't require much power.

[@mwbgaming28]

What if you got a 240V inverter and connected the active and neutral to the 2 actives on the fuse box and the ground to the ground/neutral on the fuse box? Wouldn't you be able to power both phases and the 240v circuits as a bonus? Or would everything just catch fire?

[@jonseason8170]

This is not the place to get this advice. Most everyone here has no idea how to do this safely. Try a website like Stack Exchange or Do It Yourself. These guys will get you killed.

[@mark33545]

not that i would ever do it, but can you use 2 120v inverters to power up both sides of your panel if you shut off all the 240v breakers first? i am curious if not, why you cant.

[@MatthewShermanHappy420]

great ideas

[@jameswest3890]

Very timely videos for me. I am in the middle of my 750w solar install. I have the Samlex 1,500 Watt pure sine wave inverter with that hard wire connector. I am interested to see how you tie into both legs. I would assume you need to flip off all double pole breakers first.Great info videos....Thanks

[@knurlgnar24]

You are very much correct in switching off all dual pole breakers. The Samlex 1500W is a good choice for this! Parts 2 and 3 will be posted soon.

[@flash001USA]

Yes you would want to turn off all of your 240 volt appliances by physically flipping the breakers associated with them especially for something like an expansive heat pump.

[@izzyplusplusplus1004]

Great video. I will do something similar, although I plan to build a completely distributed off grid system integrated with both pv and passive solar. Each room will have it's own system. This means if one of my kids likes his room at 68 degrees in the summer, he will be able to control it specifically for his room. Each inverter, battery(s), and solar photovoltaic will be dedicated to its own section of the house.

[@ramadancabdow7702]

by

[@MrBobchiz1]

+Joash Church are you gonna do it from the same battery bank or have several banks?

[@izzyplusplusplus1004]

I would like to try to have separate banks for each room, but have some sort of bypass switching so that each room could be standalone, or connected to a main.

[@ricardorodrigorodriguez]

Take videos and share

[@jamesrussellnix3]

I once connected two inverters to my backfed panel with blocking diodes installed on the hots that exceeded the breaker they were backfed into. I pulled 220, inverters were unaffected. I didn't go any further because I was trying to get 110 at higher wattage

[@Digitalmanne]

You said there are 2 methods. I am going with method #3. During my remodel, my house is getting a separate electrical system. Each room has a "green" outlet that goes to the inverter. Then the microwave, fridge and freezer has a green outlet beside the public power system. This way, I have a backup. It is hot 24/7 and ready anytime. No interfering with the standard electrical power..... Also, know your loads. I am still gathering data. Refrigerator running 330w 1.7kw a day, Freezer 345w running 1.8kw a day, Propane furnace 290w running 1.6 kw a day, microwave 880w running 1.1 kw per week, Oxygen machine 680w running 6.8kw a day...... It all adds up fast. Know what you really need.

[@ddd228]

The microwave will be a HOG. You may need a separate inverter just for that appliance.The refers have a start up wattage requirement. You plan on running a LOT of watts,there.

[@Digitalmanne]

So, as I mentioned, the house has a separate electrical system. That is the third way... 2:35 #1 use extension cords, #2 2:45 transfer switch. Thus, my way of having a separate electrical system, separate from the public power system is the third way..... The power consumption is a separate issue I was just reminding people about..... As for power, I have found used pure sine wave inverters. (3- from 1000w to 2500w) Each can be to a line for different uses.... Use one, use all, what ever you like. (For those people planning to jump me for that comment, don't say something stupid like you can not put multiple inverters together.... if you don't know how to separate different runs, skip to easier things)

[@ddd228]

You will be fine! Sure you can run a few inverters from the same or different battery sources! Great thinking!! Applause is due. Dave in Seattle.

[@Digitalmanne]

2 is 1 and 1 is none.... I would rather have 2 or 3 smaller inverters running to outlets in separate rooms, than have 1 for the entire house. 1, I can turn off ones I don't need. 2, if one burns out, I still have something to work with.... besides, the power used in the house, will be the same load on the battery bank (minus effeciency, give or take). As long as the battery bank is big enough for one system, it is big enough for the other, if power consumption is the same.

[@ddd228]

Just label each out put for the inverters. Simple. Good thinking!Some inverters have a remote on-off switch that is wireless. Very cool.

[@jbhobbyist9372]

Ok, when using double end male plugs/cord. Does the outlet you choose to use have to be designated just for that back feed plug or can you plug other items into the outlet also like a refrigerator a freezer etc?

[@ddd228]

NO! Don't do that.

[@larryjenkins8049]

In case you dont get to it, I want to connect my 2- separate 120v. inverters to my house with 2- large Power Stations, one connected to the A Leg and the other to the B Leg. Do the Neutrals have to be separated, since they are not phased to produce 240v from 2- separate Inverters

[@michaelgrubb9593]

I understand the grounding theory and how you showed the connection to the BATT ground and the ground of the outlet. I have a Vector that I just checked for that and it seems as though the battery ground is not connected to the outlet ground so I shouldn't get voltage sent into my batteries. Could I still use the vector to feed my circuits in my home and still use the ground connection? In your other videos you made your connections without the ground. Also, whats the main difference between a batter backup (UPS) vs an inverter with batteries? m assuming it has something to do with the grounding and neutral. Normally I use a generator but im also looking to go with a battery system with solar charging. Thanks for any info!!

[@knurlgnar24]

The battery negative is often effectively referenced to the midpoint between the neutral and line on less expensive inverters. If neutral is grounded (as it is in a typical household electrical system) this results in the battery connections being driven to one half of AC voltage. This isn't a problem as far as the inverter is concerned but it could be a safety hazard.

[@larryjenkins8049]

You are correct there would be a problem but if you had two separate neutrals one for each inverter you would avoid that situation. Now the problem would be corrected if at the panel everything was separate but we know some electricians are careless and somewhere in the house there could be separate neutrals joined together; in which case you would have to do a continuity test or you could put each phase on its own arc fault, breaker for a test.

[@pacoeltaco3482]

Is your power inverter split-phase or single phase?

[@cawag98]

Newbies be aware: even when the main power is 'off' the two 120vac service leads are always on and are deadly. Do not open or work on your own box after simply watching this video.

[@Str8TalkNoDiddy]

So is this AIMS Power 5000 Watt 12VDC Power Inverter good to use in homes?

[@haseebusman7818]

Hi can I connect to inverter with gas generator with 12v output for more 220 output?

[@slabrec11]

Hi my name is Sylva I will like to know what inverter do I need for a camper I will like to run a ac. what I have now 4 batt back and 4 solar 100 w

[@dalehammond1704]

Nice video. We just whip an extension cord through the basement window and learn to dodge cords all over the house. Our power outages happen maybe 2 or 3 times a year and usually don't last 8 hours. Actually they're kinda fun.

[@knurlgnar24]

Your way is the safer way. It's nice to use existing light fixtures and some refrigerators/appliances are built in or difficult to move, etc which may limit options for some in such situations.

[@NiHaoMike64]

Some inverters like the ones built into the Honda generators are protected against backfeed (that's how the parallel kit works) and can be used to power one side with another backfeed-protected inverter or generator powering the other side. The A/C isn't going to even notice unless you try to turn it on, but you can just switch off all the 240V breakers to further guard against it. Resistive loads won't be damaged, but would probably operate erratically or not at all.

[@knurlgnar24]

It is important to turn off ALL 240V breakers, even the resistive ones. If one of the two power sources goes out (out of fuel, overload, unplugged, etc) you're left with a pretty severe power quality problem on the other phase. I accidentally did this once and it was quite creepy - lights very dim and pulsing on and off, appliances turning themselves on and off, strange noises from various undervoltage beepers, yikes!

[@jonseason8170]

Read this and then ask yourself - Do you think this guy is the right guy to take advice on how to break the electrical code "safely." This is illegal, unsafe and will void your homeowner's insurance - and rightly so. Don't touch this guy's ideas with a 10 foot pole.

[@maddysaggus8187]

Hi, i can follow you guys all the way up to your 120, 120, 240, volt power boards, over here we are all 240v. My question is please, can a (240v) pure sine inverter run with its neutral and earth connected ? Our mains power boards have a big fat earth cable that goes to the neutral bar. So if i isolate the inward mains Active power only, can i connect my pure sine inverter to the neutral and active in my power board ? Would my inverter blow up? I learned that a modified sine inverter wont do this, I learned the hard way :-( so now im worried. Love your stuff, thanks from Australia :-)

[@jeromystewart]

Hey great tutorials very helpful, I want to do solar and wind to feed a battery bank in an RV, do I need 2 charge controllers? how do I approach this?

[@jeromystewart]

Also I am not going to grid tie, I will run TV and PC (possibly some other small draw items) off of the battery bank and let the propane do the rest. hoping for around 500-700 watts total, which is kindof overkill but I want to eventually feel comfortable powering a whole house. The primary motivation for both wind and solar is the fact that I live in washington state and particularly in the winter time, we have very little in the way of sunlight.

[@jayw900]

+Jeromy Stewart I believe solar and wind have different charge characteristics so likely you would need a solar and wind controller. As long as the battery settings in the controllers are the same, you shouldn't have a problem.

[@jeromystewart]

+jayw900 Thank you

[@jayw900]

Sure, i hope it helps. Not connecting makes it a lot easier to set up.

[@Swimnbud]

I have somehwat unrelated question. I have the same Square D master planel in you veideo, expect that mine is just a 20/40 for the slot count, rather than a 30/60 as yours is. I am completing an adition and am trying to find a 30/60 that I can buy so as to just change out the guts and save the hassle of opening the wall. (the cases are the same size for each.) Do you know of a source for used ones, or even just you part number if it is still legible. Square has stopped making this particular model. Thank You in advance

[@Canvideo]

If you have the ampacy, maybe install a sub panel.

[@randywood4782]

good job

[@garymckown6808]

I have a mobile home, and I am adding on to it. I am getting rid of the breaker panel, as I need more breakers. My question is I am going all solar,wind, and generator for back-up. I am using a 3000 watt power inverter, and a 100amp breaker panel, 20space. I am trying to figure out how I would wire this inverter to the100amp breaker panel. I am doing completely away with the power company, and I will probably add on a meter to sell back power to the power company later down the road. I use a swamp cooler, and wood stove for heating, a hot tub Jacuzzi,and lights frig,freezer. So I think this 3000 amp inverter will work,just need help wiring it to Homeline HOMVP5 100amp/20space. I have 2-6' ground rods for ground, and there is no power here now, as I am using a generator, and get tired of the noise.

[@knurlgnar24]

That sounds like a very interesting project! Most of your questions are building code related and I am not legally qualified to answer those in detail, but if you plan to make this permanent and also connect to the utility then you'll need an interlock kit or a transfer switch of some sort.

[@twoweary]

Steve, not always, but at the service yes.

[@zachbrown7837]

Is there anyway that I could have a transfer switch that can be controlled electrically, so I can use a separate controller to control the switching? I guess the easiest way to do this is to roll your own switch by using two interlocked dpst contactors or a single dpdt contactor, but I don't know if this meets code. edit: I think I figured this one out, It's called a "non-automatic" transfer switch; as opposed to an automatic or manual transfer switch. I can't quite find any specific wiring diagrams for any of them, but I assume it will let you roll your own switching controller.

[@MrReidREad]

That is the 2nd vid of yours where I'm trying to learn what to do and the whole vid is about what not to do. Its not fair

[@knurlgnar24]

I understand your frustration. This video series is indeed more about what not to do than what to do. There's so much that can go wrong when backfeeding that I wanted to explain the problems that can happen much more than I wanted to explain what can go right. My videos are long-winded and aren't for everyone. I'm in your boat too when watching videos other people make much of the time too. I never made these for profit as a business so I just did what felt natural to me and if people watch them, then great! If not, that's OK too.

[@BenlitaPintosKitchen]

"Hello. I live in a building of 16 flats. Every house has been given one bulb point for generator use. However, it does not function when there is normal power. Can they connect only one bulb point to the generator without going through the main power line?"

[@greensunnergy5737]

I'll be great if you could test the Xantrex and how is inside, so we can see the internal circuits!

[@jimbo5635]

I devicesd a method of making a suicide cord safer by having a circuit that detects current and only makes connection between the cord ends when both ends are plugged in. As soon as a plug end is disconnected, the connection between the ends is broken and no current can flow.. this help prevent getting shocked by the exposed male ends.

[@alfteck]

Bice video...the next time i wanna take a college course I'll come here...in the mean time let me get a video that gets to the point.

[@Eemrek]

First of all, great series. I just finished watched all three parts. I've been wanting to do something similar for quite a while and you've virtually covered every aspect of it. I only have one question at this time and that's if you've found a simple way to see if and when utility has restored power other than going outside your home and trying to determine if your neighbor has power? :) i.e. Like a LED that lights up near your breaker box, etc. vs. putting voltage probes on the incoming mains? ;)

[@knurlgnar24]

Without removing the breaker panel cover there isn't an easy way to determine when power comes back on while inside the home. You would need to do as you said and check at the incoming power leads on the utility side of the mains breaker.

[@kevinanglin678]

@@knurlgnar24 So can you get 220v from a 110v inverter? Not 100% understand

[@slchang01]

@@kevinanglin678 In theory, you would get 220V, single phase, but in reality, if those two hot cables coming into your house has different phases, then the inverter will not be able to provide the two phases you need to power you appliances. Secondly, you would not want to use the 220 V appliances because your emergency inverter power/generator normally does not have that kind of juices (less than 5000 watts). It would be necessary to turn off all 220V circuit breakers and leave those essential ones on, such as refrigerator/freezer, lighting, TV, gas fired furnace/water heater...The most easier way is just hook up your generator as a independent unit. This video is focused on the inverter power battery, which does not burn gas, so it can be used in house, thus back feeding is kind of make sense with two cables. But you can easily do that without back feeding, just use extension cables where you need to.

[@MikeO-ss1cn]

What size inverter would it take to run a 2 ton central AC unit (by itself, no other loads)?Any opinions please.

[@unix-oq3cw]

+Mike O look at the documentation or labeling on the unit to find the operating voltage (probably 240) and current. Multiply the two numbers to find the wattage required. Note that the actual wattage consumed will be dependent on the temperature set on the unit. Usually the rated current draw is based off the maximum setting for the AC, but it doesn't hurt to use an inverter that is rated 500 or 1000 watts higher than what is required. Another reason it's a good idea to have more watts than you need is because large loads tend to have a high power consumption upon initial startup. If you load is 500w and you have a 500w inverter, its possible that when the load is turned on it could initially have a peak power consumption of say 600w and cause the inverter to shutoff or overload. Which would stop power from being delivered.

[@ddd228]

Depends on the total watts and the start up load,totally.1,200 watts? Get a 2,000 watt inverter pure sign wave....,minimum.

[@sammyg3697]

So to do this we should only use pure sine wave and not modified?

[@condor5635]

Can't imagine rolling that huge heavy battery cart around. Wouldn't a $700 generator be an easier option with more power to use including having both legs wired.? Those batteries themselves must have cost a fortune not to mention keeping them maintained so they are ready to go. Generator can sit for years and come out ready to go. Interesting setup. Thanks for posting.

[@knurlgnar24]

Generators require maintenance and usually don't work due to gummed up carbs or other issues after sitting for a while. I have a generator I start up a couple times per year to run through old fuel and keep it going. The carb still gums up. And I don't want a noisy generator running 24/7 that can't properly power much vs a good inverter.

[@condor5635]

- I run my generator dry and don’t store gas in the tank after sitting for eight months it fires right up on the first try. What do you mean a generator that can’t power much? 6000 W is what your standard generator power switch is essentially any house appliance couple of fridgerators lights TV everything else even a small air conditioning. How many watts can you inverter supply? Noise I got to give that one to you!

[@Penguin545]

Dumb question but would it be ok to use two inverters into two different outlets if you first disconnected the main and then switched off all 30 amp 240 double pull breakers so that they are not connecting your two out of phase 120s? Obviously it wouldn’t be appropriate or even possible to run appliances that large off an inverter plus as you stated they would out of phase.

[@knurlgnar24]

If running off of separate battery banks it should be possible, but I wouldn't recommend it.

[@Canvideo]

I thought that L1 and L2 supplying the breaker panel are single phase. It's 240v with a center tap of a winding in the transformer that results in 120v on each side. The term "phasing" would apply to the synchronizing of the 2 inverters in the 60 cycles. Three phase power would be three 240v - 60 cycles at 120 degrees apart.

[@jamesf9610]

How does a solar setup backfeed into the grid without hurting anything.

[@foureyedchick]

11:36: I have one suggestion. Because of the phasing problem and beat frequency problem of running 2 separate inverters, why not just buy one 6000 watt inverter instead of 2 3000 watt inverters. Pump the output of the 6000 watt inverter into a 1:2 isolation transformer. The primary winding is 120 volts. the secondary winding is 240 volts with a center tap. Connect the center tap to ground and have the 2 ends of the transformer be the 2 120v halves of your house. Use a big SPDT knife switch to switch from grid power to battery power.

[@ande250]

Knurlgnar24, Do you know if apc battery backups are pure sine wave? I have a couple as backup for electronics and wanted to know if they are safe for electronics and other sensitive items. Thanks!

[@z1power]

+Ande Taylor Smart ups are pure sine and the back-ups are modified sine wave

[@ande250]

+z1power thank you!

[@ddd228]

Will APC answer that question?

[@greensunnergy5737]

Hi, this is Gabriel from México.i'd like to ask you if you have test the 1000w SW Xantrex inverter, 'cause i want to buy one for my solar project . is it real pure sine wave or fake? Thanx

[@knurlgnar24]

It is a true sine wave inverter. I cannot comment on it in detail, however, because I haven't used one personally.

[@ericsoles2080]

i seen another video where smart meters won't take the backfeed that Pennsylvania are installing

[@onesimusiii]

Have you heard of using a Toyota Pruis as a battery bank to power your house? if so how would/could it be done? I was reading a ham radio article that talked about it. "Rethinking Electrical power for the Ham" QST August 2012. For that matter is it possible to use any of the new plug in cars as a battery bank by just shutting off the main breaker to draw from the battery bank of the car? Let me know what you think?

[@mwbgaming28]

a prius battery wouldnt be able to do it for long as the battery bank is really tiny if you had a step down converter you might be able to hack a tesla model S to backfeed into your house

[@MrCtx32]

Hey man, Are you still around? I have a question I want to ask you thanks

[@kf7tkj]

Correct me if i'm wrong but if you had no intention of using ANY 240v appliances you could use 2 inverters correct? Just turn off the breakers? I feel like i'm missing something

[@GoingOffGrid101]

yes you are, 2 inverters are a problem because they both have to be in sync with each other, so if one interter is set to 60mhz and another is set to 60hmz just one millisecond after the other there will not be a proper 240v and it will destroy your equipment! and they must be kept in sync the hole time.

[@kf7tkj]

fliping720 I do not plan to use ANY 240v appliances and like I said I will switch off the 240v breakers, so neither circuit should be able to see the other side right?

[@knurlgnar24]

kf7tkj If you use inverters that have a live neutral they will be referenced together at the batteries and you'll likely end up with damaged inverters. Most inexpensive modified sine inverters (including the Xantrex shown in this video) are this type and won't work. If the inverters are not live neutral AND have isolated inputs/outputs (most pure sine inverters are in this category) then it would technically work to use two inverters as you describe, however any tiny mistake and one could blow up expensive inverter equipment. It is just too easy to accidentally, with some unknown/unforseen mechanism, get live power applied to the output of an inverter that way in my opinion.

[@jimrojas62]

***** That is correct.

[@danrolando7800]

Hello thank you for this video I thought it was absolutely amazing. How do I determine what size of inverter do I need for my home. I think it will be 15000+W for a 7k square ft house. Thanks in advance. My first comment was on the wrong video lol

[@knurlgnar24]

That question requires a complicated analysis of your goals, budget, needs, and tradeoffs. Perhaps the first question I'd ask is what you intend to use for batteries and if a standard generator might be more suitable for your application. A 15kw generator with on-site fuel storage is quite inexpensive compared with an inverter system that does a similar task for example.

[@danrolando7800]

In all honestly I live out in farm country we have an outage at least once every 3 months. The last one was a 3 day outage. Well and with the way the world is turning i'd like to have an complete off the grid back up if possible. I looked at GENERAC well and being propane fueled house. The generac required for my house will eat up 500gals of propane every 5 days. Just not cost effective at all for being a 35,000$ unit in itself alone!

[@knurlgnar24]

A propane generator will last much longer than that on much less fuel - you just need to conserve a little and not expect to run your house 100%. Probably run it 8 hours a day to cool down your fridge/freezer and turn it off during the night. A small inverter can be used to keep lights, computers, phone chargers, and such small draw appliances on. I live in a similar area to you BTW. What you need to be worried about mostly is heat during the winter and that should NOT be generator powered. A direct burn propane or diesel heater is the answer there and those shouldn't require any (or only enough for a small fan) electricity. @@danrolando7800

[@knurlgnar24]

Generac makes some good backup units but that is 'rich person toy' stuff. A simple dual fuel generator that runs on gasoline or propane can be had for under a couple thousand dollars. It takes more setup work but works just as well. @@danrolando7800

[@bashirmohamed7982]

whats your background you seem smart. keep it simple, I would use extension cords, thanks for vid.

[@marktheamerican4162]

I’m planning to do the same thing my friend , Battery-BackUp - with a DIY Self-sufficient Generator - I was planning on hard writing it into the breaker box on a 100 Amp Double Pole Breaker or I have a 220v plug out-let which is never used anymore I got rid of my compressor it was a Craftsman 6 Hp. 33 Gallon tank my election wired for me as you just explained he wired it off each side of the breaker box given me 220v my 5KVA Pure sine wave inverter is single phase 220v-249v I was debating on removing the plug outlet and hard-wiring it straight into the line which will back-feed both sides of my Breaker-box and the only time using it is in a power- Failure ! On my Box the way they wired it is each leg not like toured into the top but the top 2 breakers are the power wires from the street shut the top 2 breakers off you kill all the electrical from my house ! That’s for the video I will watch what you’ve done thanks ! Now back to you’re work ! Thanks

[@knurlgnar24]

I made a 240V dryer plug to dual 120V outlet 20A plug box that I use for this purpose. Sounds like you have a good setup with your 220V plug that way.

[@spockmcoyissmart961]

IS there such a thing as a 'solar inverter' vs a 'regular inverter'? I have several modified and pure sine wave inverters I've collected over the years. I'm looking at installing a battery bank/solar panels onto my home and wonder if 1 of my pure sine wave inverters will be fine or if I need a special 'solar inverter'. I've heard that solar inverters shut off earlier to protect the battery voltage from dropping too far. The trouble is, when I search for a solar inverter, I can't find anything that is any different spec wise to my regular pure sine inverters. IE, they all shut down when the 12 volt battery reaches 10 volts.

[@knurlgnar24]

There is no difference spec wise. Solar inverters are generally rated for continuous duty while 'regular inverters' are rated for intermittent duty. Lesser quality manufacturers will often state that their products are for solar duty or continuous duty even though they won't last, so in reality there isn't any difference. A good quality inverter will be fine for solar use even if it isn't marketed as a 'solar inverter'.

[@spockmcoyissmart961]

Thank you for the reply. :)

[@ramadancabdow7702]

SpockMcoy Issmart

[@michaelperkinson5433]

would not beleive this guy on a bet

[@swedensy]

Plus you make stuff very longer an complicated. Just buy 2 phase or 3 phase inverter,depending on your location. That supports on grid and off grid modes. And let certified electrician to connect your inverter to mains. Everything else you can connect your self.

[@sp10sn]

I didn't see it mentioned in the video or comments but don't you lose your ground (the non-current, non-neutral) as it runs through the same main disconnect as all the other cables? Great, great video, thanks.

[@stargazer7644]

The ground and neutral dont run through the breaker

[@sp10sn]

+Star Gazer ah. Of course, why would it? That's pretty key to understand. Thanks!

[@batterynerd8779]

I love living in a 240v country! I have 3,6 Kw from a simple plug in my bedroom! In a 120 v country you have to pray that your house doesnt burn down when you connect a space heater. But if i touch the outlet the chances of me dying are higher.

[@knurlgnar24]

Old wiring is a problem no matter where you live. In the USA we have 120V appliances but the fire risk is near zero in newer buildings built to code. If your wiring is older than the 1970's then yes I'd agree. An odd factoid: 120V is far superior to 240V for incandescent lighting which is why 100V ish was chosen for the system here. Today a 240V system would definitely be better but the system is fully in place at 120V and will likely never change. It works just fine and changing would be a complete mess.

[@judahntombela5261]

Can I use invertor only without solar panels to power my house during load shedding

[@knurlgnar24]

I am not sure what you mean by load shedding in this context, but you can use batteries only for brief power outages. If supplemented by an inverter or solar panels it can prolong your power backup. If you're looking for full time solar power then this video does not apply.

[@XundeadXnightmareX]

my power is out now. I used an extension cord ran it from my router and modem to generator. Internet while power is out!!

[@stewmiller778]

Geez, you are giving me the willies sticking your fingers in the panel. I'm sure its just the perspective of the camera, but still :-) Thanks for another great video. I look forward to the next two installments.

[@SuperFredAZ]

Anyone attempting to duplicate the method shown deserves the Darwin award for stupidity. Hire an electrician, and install a transfer switch. If you attempt to sell a house with the wiring as such, you will need to remediate it anyway.

[@bparkinson1234]

Fred Zlotnick here is how to do it properly. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o3zLkHSOqN2irMk. Thanks

[@bigpardner]

Are some of your fears/warnings negated if you keep all 240V breakers off?

[@chaseme81871]

i have to subscribe, this is like candy to my brain..............yea im a nerd too. lol

[@neftalicurbelo5141]

puedes usar un inberter 400 v. Y un cargador de batería y una bateria

[@jonseason8170]

Watch, but do not copy. This is illegal, dangerous and will void your homeowner's insurance. You may get your electrical meter pulled too - no electricity to your house anymore.

[@mattp1482]

J S and a million others things are illegal... we are not allowed to do anything that doesn't involve paying the piper, so most of us don't give a shit about petty crap like keeping your family warm in an emergency like aftermath of a hurricane or other type problems we encounter. Yes, you need to know what your doing and to make sure it is done in a way that wont hurt yourself or others but that is where a lot of us draw the line, hence this informative video you found yourself watching.

[@jonseason8170]

Keep your family warm by plugging whatever you need directly into your generator, that works just fine. You think that you "know what you're doing" and that you've thought of everything that the NEC thought of and that you couldn't possibly hurt anyone, until something happens that you didn't think of. Believe me, you haven't thought of everything.

[@bigpardner]

Why isn't using two inverters as described at 11:37 acceptable? What difference does it make that they will probably be out of phase in varying degrees as long as you are not seeking 240V power and any 240 breakers are off? You say "you would expect to have no volts here", between the two hot legs ( I wouldn't jnow what to expect). What difference does it make if they are never connected and you are powering 120V circuits on two different, independent bus bars ?

[@knurlgnar24]

As long as you never have any 240V breakers on AND both inverters have isolated conversion from the batteries (most inexpensive inverters do not) AND neither inverter has a live neutral (half voltage on hot half on neutral) then yes you could do this. I just use a larger single inverter and connect the HOT to both sides of the 240V bus. Then both have 120V and there is no danger even if I forget to turn off a 240V breaker.

[@JesseLawrencium]

I'm so glad you mentioned this hot neutral/ hot hot issue... I watched this series closely and wired up to connect my 3000 W pure sine inverter, and JUST before I did I checked both lines with a power pen, found out they were both hot! I'd never heard of this before. My little gas generator is the same way... two hot wires. So, I don't think there's any way I can connect these to my home wiring unless I take all the house wiring neutral lines off of ground? I'm bummed out, I was real excited to play with this. 😐

[@aspjake123]

great info audio is hard to hear

[@judahntombela5261]

Do I need all those batteries

[@danielhorne6042]

we only get 240 in the uk in houses unless they want three phase 440v 480v

[@rayberger2694]

I had tried this before and fried a inverter, it turns out that many inverters can not handle a neutral ground earth bond and after a few hours of use it destroyed some of the capacitors inside the inverter , I was able to resolve this issue by placing a 1000 watt isolation transformer between the inverter and the feeder circuit. It has now been working for about 5 years. I did not know this and I have been a electrician for over 20 years.

[@knurlgnar24]

If the batteries are floating, not connected to any potential relative to earth, you can use any inverter. (2 prong, not 3 to the inverter) The downside is that the battery voltage will be live AC relative to GND! Not terribly safe, but then this method I would consider only for emergencies or tinkering around.

[@autobri1]

Great video! Apparently there are a lot of people trying to back feed through the panel, I only hope they watch this video before they try it. Weather it's inverter or generator. Thanks knurlgnar, you may have kept a lineman safe or someone from burning down the house!!

[@knurlgnar24]

Thanks for your comment and you hit the nail on the head regarding the purpose of this video. Backfeeding isn't the safest method for powering a house but I know that many people use it, so hopefully illustrating some of the potential complications will keep people safe.

[@ThaSatelliteGuy]

If youre gonna throw safety AND code out the window, then just grab a double breaker, put it in the panel with a small jumper wire from one side to the other. Turn it on and voila! Both sides get lit up with 120v!

[@phopk6398]

I forgot to mention, a simple auto transformer is a cost effective way to get 240V. Just remember that the amperage will reduce by roughly one half. Keep up the good work!

[@knurlgnar24]

For live neutral inverters an isolation transformer would be preferred for safety reasons, otherwise a standard distribution style autotransformer would work great. I actually have one for exactly the purpose you mention: to create split phase from any 120V or 240V inverter.

[@themasterofdisaster1]

I'm from Germany and your fuse box scares me oO So many exposed blank wires :O. At my home the ground wires are seperately connected to every fuse. If more than 30mA float threw the ground connection the fuse will cut off the power. (required by the law)

[@mattp1482]

Mixermachine yet we don't encounter issues, but laws weren't all made for safety but actually to line the pockets of buddies of said law makers