HUGE Electrical Mistake Too Many People Make - Backfeeding

[@LostBeetle]

Blame the idiots who don't know how to turn off their main breaker, don't blame the cord. The cord is perfectly safe to use if you're not dimwitted.

[@ericgardner5548]

False. And voids your home warranty.

[@LostBeetle]

​@@ericgardner5548 It's just a conductor... If you're safe and don't overload the circuit and isolate your home by turning off the main breaker it IS perfectly safe. You can't just tout back "false" with no explanation.

[@StephanIrvine]

It’s hilarious you’re on here calling people idiots but you CLEARLY didn’t take the time to actually watch the video. If you did watch the video, you must have brain damage because he CLEARLY explains the most important danger almost immediately in his schpeel. I’m not even going to do you the justice and give you the answer because you’ve already proved to us that you are an IDIOT yourself and your projecting your feelings here.

[@wza223-fo3mc]

@@ericgardner5548no it doesnt this isnt a chevy 😂😂😂😂 moron

[@MrResale]

you realize what you said is incorrect. You can still backfeed when its off, the main trips both ways bafoon

[@steveperry1344]

i'm a retired lineman for a local power company and over the years we would always be on the lookout for home generators that might be backfeeding onto our syetem during outages.

[@billdarling2629]

That's what I was told. I also heard that the first thing linemen do is ground the normally live wires in case any generators are currently (no pun intended) on-line.

[@steveperry1344]

@@billdarling2629 in theory grounding the line was the correct thing to do but we never really did it because it wasn't always practical. we would always practice our safe working procedures like wearing our rubber gloves when handling a downed line and make sure there were openings in the line by opening switches and lifting connectors, and treating any of our wires as if they were alive or could become alive.

[@billdarling2629]

@@steveperry1344 good to know. thanks for sharing. yet another reason to be careful to keep the main breaker off while using a generator to feed power to the electric panel.

[@erikk77]

@@billdarling2629 Don't feed into a wall outlet. When you do that the power is not going through a breaker (or fuse). Plug in a power surge strip (with a breaker) into the generator.

[@bobbyc2768]

isn't there a way you could test the lines to make sure they aren't energized before you guys would touch them and start working on them? i wouldn't trust entire neighborhoods full of people to not have at least 1 complete idiot who is doing something stupid

[@hisfishherfish]

I always backfeed through the dryer outlet... This is how I've done it for years. 1. My house has a main disconnect that isolates it from the incoming electrical service. This remains OFF until I see that power has been restored to the neighborhood. 2. I use #8 AWG wire and 30 amp plugs on the 30 amp feed from the generator. Dryer breaker is also rated for 30 amps. 3. I turn off all breakers - generator, dryer, main disco and all breakers in the house breaker box. 4. Plug both ends of cord in, start generator and flip breakers on in order of flow - generator, dryer, then whichever breakers I need for the house, usually fridge, window unit or space heater, air pump for fishroom and a few lights. Everything else in the house is unplugged. 5. Nobody and I mean nobody is allowed to touch the generator, power cord or breaker box except me. If I'm missing anything, please let me know.

[@cowsongs]

I don't think you have missed anything, other than the fact that you have a 5 step list that must be religiously followed to do this without danger. Some sort of interlock that assures that it is impossible for the generator to be connected without the street feed also being connected would be a lot safer.

[@JohnLobbanCreative]

Exactly what I do.

[@dustincooper7181]

I made a step by step fool proof check list for doing this same steps printed it and it's in the box with the generator cables

[@e.l.abusaid2500]

I have a 240 outlet 50A outside for RV use in sync of turning the main off to electrify the busbar.....turning off some breakers to allow more power to flow through needed breakers .... how is this dangerous?

[@williamkacensky4796]

I am not an electrician but I do enjoy the quality and experience you bring to others in your video presentations. I thank you for your time and effort in bringing safety to others such as myself.

[@wfodavid]

I'm using a 50 amp cord that plugs into my generator and the other end plugs into my compressor/welding plug. I dont have the switch and do understand the risk to others if you don't turn off main power and actually back-feed the power grid. Old school yes but it works. Was actually put in by previous owner and he told me how he used it. Great channel good advice.

[@billyoung8118]

I installed a 240v 50A outlet in my garage for this very purpose and made my own cable using 6-gauge wire. Just before Y2K I bought a generator to help heat my house "just in case". I live in a cold climate, and am a T1 diabetic. I could not risk my insulin freezing. It was a gamble. I did use my generator a few times during power outages, and most certainly shut off the main breaker every time before even starting the generator. Never had a problem. Sold the generator maybe 10 years later. Still have the outlet in my garage. FWIW, I have a degree in electrical engineering so I do fully understand the risks.

[@e.l.abusaid2500]

Suppose this video is good for someone who does know how electricity works..it be better to show how to backfeed correctly...imo

[@Rakusan2]

When it comes to current: 1. Generators tend to have a separate fuze for the 20A outlets 2. Breakers work both ways This means that if the generator does not have a fuze, only the line up to the breaker can take more than the breaker is rated for It should also be said that while backfeeding is an issue, the lineman still needs to wear safety gear as there are still plenty of other ways to put a charge on the wires With that said, I am still not ever buying or making any cords with male to male plugs.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Yeah I agree with you. Everything SHOULD work or be done properly. Just never know though. Thanks for the feedback!

[@albatross5466]

@@HowToHomeDIY No you are not agreeing. He pointed out that your claim of overloading a circuit is incorrect. The circuit is still protected by the panel breaker regardless of which direction it feeds from, thus protecting the wiring in the circuit. I am not advocating that method, just pointing out the error in your statement.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

No, I am agreeing with him that the breakers should protect regardless of direction. However I would not just count on that if I don’t absolutely have to. Thanks for telling me what I agree with and don’t 😂

[@shawnsrepairs9514]

So basically if you're not an idiot you can do this fine. Turn off your main, plug in your suicide cord to your dryer outlet and to the generator then start your generator. I totally get that this is to complicated for some to do safely but it if it's an emergency situation and you actually understand how to do it, it's fine. TURN OFF YOUR MAIN!! Some linemen life depends on it.

[@Obxcape]

Glad to hear you mention back feed on line crews. My career was in that arena and, as time progressed from the 70’s well into the 2000’s the used of generators and back feed problems got worse and worse. While working storm trouble we’d arrive on a job site and our ears would be tuned to the sound of running generators. People don’t realize that transformers are ‘stupid’ and will not only STWP DOWN voltage, but they STEP UP voltage as well! Good job….I enjoy your videos!

[@electromech7335]

I still don't understand how a 2kw generator will backfeed an entire neighborhood and not trip its breaker or burn up the windings? I'm not downplaying the safety btw?

[@lvnthedrm]

Very high quality video! However, when done correctly back feeding isn’t dangerous to anyone.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

If every single thing is done correctly then yes you are right, it will work and nothing bad will happen. But everyone makes mistakes or forgets things from time to time so always best to try and put things in place that take mistakes out of the equation. I appreciate the feedback!

[@imadmasarwa3926]

@@HowToHomeDIY Thanks for pointing out the danger part of this practice but you should also point out that when someone decides to do this , and believe me some will, they should use a DEDICATED 20A GFI protected outlet that runs straight to the panel . This way you avoid plugging in other shared outlets and either overload the circuit or risk damages to the appliance since they are not protected at the panel by the 20A breaker.

[@wynottgivemore9274]

We powered our fridge and lights in apartment when out power got shut off ,due to non payment... the landlord even gave us his male to male cord and his the one that suggested doing it,we just made sure to plug the dead end in first,then went out into the hallway. Never had an issue. And that how we renovated the apartments that were empty,and had no power. But I agree it is dangerous,just one person that is not with the program can be seriously injured. And especially if you have kids or pets running around,but we didn't have that to worry about . The only time I needed a generator for powering my fridge in a power outage,I plugged it directly into the generator. Good vid!

[@whiskey_tango_foxtrot__]

Great presentation. If you don't know how to shut off your main breaker and not energize your generator electric panel until all cords have been installed or plug in last to the generator, then stick with extension cords and/or get a transfer switch.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@deang5622]

You should stick with a transfer switch anyway, as it is much safer. Mistakes can be made

[@markmalaney5542]

@@deang5622 Sometimes in cases of an emergency, this is the only option.

[@maximeboissonneault6203]

@@markmalaney5542 it is never the only option. If you have the option to plug the suicide cord, you have the option to use the extension cord to plug the appliance directly into the generator.

[@markmalaney5542]

@@maximeboissonneault6203 that's fine if you're only using 1 appliance but when you live on an island and an ice storm hits and you won't have power for a week or more then using a single ext. cord to power 1 device, is not an option.

[@coreybabcock2023]

As long as you turn off the main breaker and remember to keep it off till the generator is disconnected from the setup and remove the cord you'll be ok and be mindful of the Amps you use too

[@terryj.macmullen9968]

the neutral in your house panel is not disconnected unless you have a transfer switch in play.the neutral is connected to center tap on utiliy transformer.usually not broken with your main disconnect switch or breaker.

[@coreybabcock2023]

@@terryj.macmullen9968 I thought about that too

[@drteknical6571]

@@terryj.macmullen9968 The Neutral and Ground conductors in residential wiring are NEVER "switched" (interupted - ie: they stay completely intact). NOT EVER!! How does this inherently cause ANY amount of current/voltage to be passed out of your house (main panel double-breaker off!!), and into the grid? The Neutral is bonded to the Earth Ground IN THE PANEL! Therefore, I can't see why this would be a problem. Please explain!!

[@Hadzz95]

@@terryj.macmullen9968 when electricians install a proper backfeed into your panel, the neutral is not switched either. It does not make electricity flow to the street, only hot wires can do that. You can touch a neutral and not feel a thing because its bonded to the ground

[@coreybabcock2023]

And you plug it in the outlet first then the generator and opposite when disconnecting

[@thomabb]

Or you plug everything in, drop the main, THEN start the generator.

[@guerradan1958]

I have a dedicated 50 amp breaker installed to house secondary break that controls the power into the house. The next thing is turning off so breaker on the house breaker system. Then I’ll connect the cabling from the female Before going any further I’ll turn off the main primary breaker from the city. This way there is no risk of creating any hazard or risk of a fire. I’ll start the generator with all breakers turned off. From I make connection from breaker box to the generator. Then I’ll energize the circuit. From there I turn on only the breaker needed to use. I would attached pictures but this app does not allow that. That’s for you video

[@keithsteinle747]

First off , anyone with any brains , you never plug into the power source first . The generator should be the last thing you hook up to. That way no wires are hot while handling them .

[@jamesshank7918]

I added a genny as soon as I could afford one, a small portable That fed thru a dedicated plug in the workshop when needed... But, I had the setup checked by the power company and they went over my startup and shutdown checklist for me and approved it. First item on the Start Up Checklist was TURN OFF main power breaker. Last item on the Shut Down Check List; Turn On Main Power breaker. As soon as we could afford it, we got a 20k Generac Genny that was properly wired into the house, started and shutdown automatically and auto switched. But living in a small rural community where power went out when butterflies flew by during a storm... we needed backup power. LOL.

[@artiehadagi4230]

Thanks for that explanation. I had a friend who did that for his electric when his solar power poofed. It seemed kind of iffy to me, and I told him, but it worked and he got by with it until we got his solar fixed up again. Still, I wouldn't want to do that at my place. I made an outlet for it to supply my house. Except then I realized that way I had it, it could back feed into my inverter and maybe burn it out ... the more you think about it, the more complicated it can get!

[@mr220v]

I use one of these with with a 300watt ryobi 40v battery inverter. Lets me run some of my overhead lights and a TV during power outages. Just cut the breaker, plug it in, and turn it on.

[@electromech7335]

I do the same. I power my living room and garage so I can run the opener.

[@chrism9037]

Great video. Not sure why people wouldn't do it the right way, given the dangers. This isn't an area where one should cut corners...

[@SlackersIndustry]

Because some actually know what they are doing

[@troyidler]

I have a 220 plug in my garage and if power goes out I have no water as I’m on a well. So turn off all the breakers and sub panels then plug cord into outlet then to generator. Then start generator. Turn on generator breaker switch. Go to house panel turn on well pump breaker and hot water tank. Now I have running water and I can still shower then turn off hot water breaker and turn on a couple lights. This is safe if you follow the steps.

[@garyshore5858]

This is exactly how I do it.

[@e.l.abusaid2500]

Exactly! and didn't have to spend money and time a transfer box... smart man!

[@carlosreyes6448]

Ive built these, their very handy. I've measured 240v across two receptacles. To make sure i know where l1 and l2 are. And backfeed power. With my inverter. But just make sure you're main. Breaker is off. Very important. Or youll toast you're Equipment. 😮😊

[@keithvidler3465]

ALWAYS TURN MAIN BREAKER OFF FIRST. THEN WORK FROM NO POWER TO POWER SOURCE TO AVOID BEING ELECTROCUTED BY THE PRONGS.

[@drteknical6571]

When back-feeding during an outage, I turn off the main breaker FIRST. Then, I put a piece of duct tape over the main breaker handle with the word "NO!!!" written on it. I am the ONLY person at this residence who would be doing this task. Then, I make both of my connections - cable to generator/cable to designated outlet. Then, I turn OFF all breakers in my box that I don't need/can't power (AC etc). Then, I start my generator. MAKE A FINAL INSPECTION!! Then, and only then, I turn ON the double-breaker in my main panel connected to the 240v/30 amp outlet I have wired in for this express purpose. No problems! I have tested my main breaker connections (incoming side), and can detect no voltage present while using this method. If I perform all these steps, and we assume my main breaker is functioning correctly, how can this method inherently be dangerous? You simply MUST be aware of what you're doing and when to do it!! I welcome any comments regarding this!!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

So yes, it would have the same effect as the interlock kit if all of those steps are taken and nobody else touches it. The reason for the code is to make sure it’s impossible for the two to be on at the same time taking human error into consideration and out of the equation.

[@drteknical6571]

@@HowToHomeDIY I would love to have one of those simple sliding interlock kits to be even safer. However there is no way I can rewire my 40 y.o. panel so that the backfeed breaker is in the correct position in the box to function as designed. I take all this very seriously since I understand what the outcome could be from not doing it "right". Thanks for your answer!

[@mikeelek9713]

In electric shop, our teacher always said that it wasn't the voltage that could kill you. It was the amps - the current.

[@houseofwonders1]

With higher voltage it makes it easier for more current to flow through your body

[@justacinnamonbun8658]

While back feeding is something I just found out about a few weeks ago, thinking back to my days in electronics engineering school (which was a very long time ago) the only issue I see with back feeding using a suicide cord is, you probably don't want power to be restored while your generator is running and supplying a voltage to that circuit. That would most likely immediately damage any electronics connected to that circuit. One power source will be out of phase with the other. If the circuit is a residential 120VAC circuit and you connect a 120VAC output from the generator and power is restored, let me think.... That's connecting in parallel so the voltage would remain the same 120VAC sort of like jumping a car battery, but you'll have an issue with the current and the wiring. I don't know, I would definitely just run off the generator separately, that way you won't have any issues. Best to have an electrician do the wiring if you intend to switch over your home to generator power during an outage. And yes there is the possibility you electrocute a lineman or mess up your neighbor's wiring although I would imagine that there are components inline outside on the pole to prevent back feeding for safety.

[@emuhill]

"although I would imagine that there are components inline outside on the pole to prevent back feeding for safety." With AC current there is no way to do that. A switch would be the only way to stop back feeding. With DC current, a diode can certainly be used to do just that.

[@drteknical6571]

@@emuhill NO! NO!! NO!!! There are no such devices "outside on the pole"!!!! YOU are the device that prevents back-feeding. YOU are on the INSIDE ... thinking about what you're doing. That way, a hard-working linesman a mile away doesn't die because you didn't know what you were doing!!

[@Dennys854]

What you need is a Generator Interlock Kit (Found these a couple of years ago). Under $100 (usually around 50-70) Its a plate that gets screwed into your panel cover that Bars either top left (Slots 1-3) or Right (Slots 2-4) from being engaged when main is closed (engaged). Then you wire a 30 plug box from outside the house to a 30a breaker in one of those positions (It depends on your panel manufacturer which side the interlock works on). Once installed You can plug the generator female side of the extension cord to the house box, plug male side to gen. THEN you have to open (disengage) the main breaker, slide the plate so it locks the main out, THEN close the generator 30a breaker. With this plate in place it is impossible to have main and generator engaged at the same time and saves a lineman's life, or have a back feed from the main side blow your generator into the next yard.

[@petertothpete6518]

You turn off the main while suppling power to the panel from the generator. Before turning the main back on, you disconnect the generator, in my case by shutting off the 220 breaker to the generator. That's the idea of the interlock kit, so only one or the other can be on. In my case, my panel is from 1960 and the interlock won't work so I rely on me to be the interlock.

[@leecowell8165]

Doesn't matter if the grid comes back up.. IF you throw the MAIN BEFORE BACKFEEDING!

[@RobertMcDermott]

The comments are mostly about what will happen plugging in a suicide plug into a house outlet. The mention that it's illegal to back feed a generator onto a incoming line drop to your home. This is a DEADLY practice as a lineman for the Electric company who is up on a pole is working on a dead branch circuit to your neighborhood. He's checked the line & knows it is a dead feeder circuit because a tree has fallen & broken the line from the pole. For safety, He pulls the neighborhood fuse that has the line dead until he's completed his repairs & then he'll go to that fuse switch & re energize that feeder again. In the meantime, Joe has gotten out his generator & suicide plug, Filled it with gas & plugs it into his garage outlet to power up a few things in the home. That 120 or 240 volts he puts on the meter box goes back out to the pole transformer. A transformer does the job of taking approx. 13, 000 volts on the branch circuit (that wire on the top of the poles that goes into the top of a transformer hanging on it) when its operating properly, And steps it down to a relatively residential safe 240/120 volt house feed. BUT A transformer works either direction. That generator voltage goes out the breaker panel in the basement, through the electric meter, out to the pole transformer, WHERE It's stepped up to 13,000 volts AC & travels down that suddenly now live line to a block away where that lineman is restringing it through the insulator eyelet on a pole. Yes, Your right, That generator will not power that block of homes for more than a couple of seconds & pop a breaker or something else. BUT That won't save the poor lineman who knows he's working on a safely dead feeder line. He's now laying at the bottom of the pole. Just a little more info about how a grid works.

[@86hj49gt]

Thank you for the video. Being educated on this makes for better consumers. It’s good to know what you are buying when you hire a tradesman to do the work.

[@joebrass4076]

I used to use a cord like that when I was working in a apartment that had no power I would plug one end into apartment common area hallway and the other end into a outlet in the apartment unit so I can have lights and power outlets In that area that I'm working in.

[@ramushqerosi8132]

extremely informative and important,honestly thank you for this video

[@georgepatterson5885]

This video serves a good purpose to make one aware of possible dangers...BUT...if you are not an idiot and take proper precautions backfeeding can be done safely!!! For example, only an idiot would start the generator and then plug in the cord😂...I guess there are some that would try it...if so...they would most likely do it only once if they got shocked! (Nature has a way of making sure only the smart survive...😢😢😢) Thanks for the informative video and an explanation of the dangers to oneself and others...yes utility linemen must always take precautions as they never know when someone is not taking proper precautions.😮

[@black69camaro2344]

Reminds me of a saying remove all the warning labels and let Darwin take it. If it wasn't for the very real chance of unrelated people being affected I would say let's do that

[@loosenut1969]

Ok so being honest. I have a 6550 generator. A friend set up a cord that he made all by himself 50 amp style cord and plug that goes into my dryer outlet with a 30 amp head that goes into my generator. I plug them in before I start the generator which I understand puts a strain on the generator at initial startup. I also shut off the main breakers on my electric box, so there’s no chance of backfeeding so ultimately feeding 110 volts through the 220 V wire I don’t know how many amps I’m using because I’m only running like 2 refrigerators, couple floor fans, led lights. Etc, how easy is it to start a fire?

[@jamesgarrison6430]

If it's all wired correctly you more than likely ok but it it's better to put in the proper transfer switch it takes out the potential for back feeding on the lines or blowing up

[@loosenut1969]

@@jamesgarrison6430 thank you. I understand

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Do you know someone that does this? Hopefully this was helpful and maybe you can help out a friend or family member (certainly none of you I'm sure 🤪)! For all generator related items I use, here is a link to the backup power section of our Amazon store amzn.to/3ULXw8a.

[@petertothpete6518]

OK, so lineman can work on powerlines fed by the substation but it's dangerous if those same lines are back fed through a 30a generator?? My one experience with accidently flipping on the feed breaker before turning off the main resulted in the motor bogging down and would have undoubtedly popped the generator breaker if I hadn't been so quick the flip it back off. I realize back feeding a breaker panel is not approved, but not everyone can afford to hire an electrician and pay them $500-$1000 to wire in a "safe" plug or a transfer switch. Nor can we afford to allow everything in our freezer to spoil. So sometimes "a mans gotta do what a mans gotta do"! Common sense seems to be in short supply these days. The plug that goes into the generator is LAST! As much as I would love to have an automatic stand by or even a fancy transfer switch for my 8.5kw portable, it just ain't in the budget. While I don't suggest it, I've been using a "suicide" cord for 30 years now. Never lit myself up. Now that I bragged about it, look for my obituary.

[@MarkPorter-oo4xv]

Thank you for the explanation of extremely important information 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@Southend_Savage]

Videos like this should have the title “if you’re an idiot who can’t follow simple safety steps don’t back feed” other wise back feeding through a dryer plug is completely safe as long as all the amperage and voltage match.

[@yrboogiemn]

Flip the main breaker to prevent backfeeding or your generator will damn near die. The generator 220v NEMA 6-20 "winking" outlet on most residential generators and in most garages are both 20 amps. At least in America. Better than freezing to death.

[@Ittiz]

So sometimes trusting an electrician to do it isn't always the best. So I learned a bunch of stuff about generators recently the hard way. Turns out when a generator doesn't detect the ground and neutral connected together it automatically switches to another mode where it makes both the hot and the neutral HOT! With half the voltage 180 degrees out of phase. Fine when your geni outputs 120 only, with 240 catastrophic. In my case my geni transfer panel had been installed by an electrician over ten years ago before I bought the house. Since then we only had a 120v geni. It couldn't run our well pump so it never had much of an issue. Well we inherited a 240v geni from my mother-in-law. We've had a few power outages since and it was so nice to have water. Well the power company sent a letter that they would be shutting off our power for 6 hours to replace a large pieces of critical electrical equipment some where in the system. I wasn't worried I had my new (and it was new, my mother-in-law never used it) 240v generator! Then the day comes and the power goes out, like I was expecting. Well it was cold I had just run the water ect... Anyway, I go and started up the generator. Then when I come back in I hear the furnace, well pump and hot water heater all try to come on at once. Each time with a big kerclunk. They stopped at the 3rd try. I go upstairs and my son tells my the lights are blinking and doing weird things. I go into the office and I smell burning electronics. I go into the kitchen and turn the light on, and and I thought that light was brighter than usual, after about 10 seconds the light went out. It suddenly reminded me of my younger years when I tried to replace an outlet and it turned out to be a 208v outlet and blew a 120v lamp out in seconds. I opened up the switch box and tested the voltage across the live and neutral, , sure enough 240v! I raced down stairs and disconnected the geni. Way too late! I spent the rest of the day trying to figure out what happened. The next day the power went out due to a storm and I spent most of that day troubling shooting it was well. At 1st I thought it was something I did, then something wrong with the generator, but after I had eliminated everything else my only conclusion was something wrong in the panel. I tested the generator cable's ground, it was grounded and then I tested its neutral... it wasn't! Then I knew something was wrong in there! I followed the neutral wire back from the transfer panel to the main panel, everything looked fine. So I loosened the screw that locks the neutral down to the ground bus bar and puller it out. To find the screw was tightened down only on the insulation of the wire, not the exposed part. This was a ticking time bomb in my panel for the whole time I've owned the house. Whoever installed it pushed the wire in too far and tightened the screw enough to pierce the insulation just enough to complete the circuit. Since my 120v geni couldn't run the well pump nothing ever used enough amps to be an issue. When I connected the 240v geni the only thing that needed to happen was for too many things to come on at once. It over heated the neutral in the breaker and caused it to disconnect. For some dumb reason the generator instantly kicked over to floating neutral mode and BAM! Me out a bunch of time and money. It took quite a bit of searching to find out this is what generators do. It should be stated clearly in the manual! And yes I read the manual! If I knew who installed the panel I would have contacted them and told them to file a claim with their insurance. Instead I've had to brush up my skills on the board level repair of electronics.

[@markhansen4258]

It's ok if you do it smart. Kill the main breaker and all the individual circuits except the one you connect to. I've got a 30 amp 120 volt outlet for an RV that was wired using a repurposed 50 amp 240 circuit. From that you could certainly power two 15 amp 120 volt circuits. Enough for one circuit to run a small window A/C and the other for a few lights, a fan and a small TV plus some phone chargers.

[@QuebecoisSti]

Yesterday I did it for few hours but not with regular 120V cord but rather using the dryer outlet I have in my garage. However, I wish I had at least a 220V/30amps breaker spare to install instead the 50 amps installed in my electrical panel. In the end it work great but for sure you have to know what you are going (e.g. close the MAIN and only use appliances that you know won't need much power yo avoid problems) In an emergency it's still doable but you have to take the time and not forget anything because for sure it's not the good way and dangerous a bit.... Now I am thinking about adding a subpanel with correct plug and so on but it's costly...

[@harrysteeletreo1]

If you have any common sense and more than 2 brain cells, you CAN safely backfeed the way you are saying NOT to do it... Yes, many of the reasons that you listed as unsafe are true but with a little caution while plugging things in (such as Main breaker OFF, generator OFF, AND even then making sure you dont touch any exposed prongs) AND KNOWING for sure that you have sufficient gauge wire for the amps you will be feeding through it, there is nothing unsafe in doing it the "wrong" (according to you) way.... Of course, like I said, you have to have at least 2 brain cells, AND some common sense, which rules out about 80% of the population of the world...

[@randyduncan795]

My goodness, the drama. First, if you open the main it isn't possible to energize the utility's lines. Well, maybe if you have a Federal Pacific panel but if you do you should replace that immediately. Second, unless you have one hell of a generator you aren't going to kill a linesman by forgetting to open the main. But you will kill your generator. Third, no power flows through an energized male plug unless you make contact with something for it to flow through. Maybe your fifth grader is smart enough to plug it into that NEMA 6-50 outlet that you're going to backfeed into first and THEN plug the other end into the generator. Another idea is not to even start the generator until your connections are made. Now you're backfeeding through a 50A receptacle protected by a 50A breaker on the generator into a 50A receptacle protected by a 50A breaker in your main or sub panel. If you understand residential wiring and generators you should be able to pull this off safely. A great conversation to have is making sure your generator is up to the job of whatever you want to power with it and whether or not you want the ground bonded on the generator. I know so many people who have backfed their homes this way safely but to be fair they're all EEs or electricians.

[@Tryke_Ryder]

It is highly unlikely a home generator would be able to withstand the load of back feeding to the utility service. That notwithstanding, having an interlock device is a good safety measure.

[@vichalen294]

Vic Halen 0 seconds ago Thanks for all the work you send my way. I get about 20-30% of my work as a state certified electrical contractor following behind "electricians", trunk slammers and DIY'rs who tried ONLY because someone like you on the internet gave them the confidence. Keep up the good work.

[@rahmanr112]

My house has a lockout switch on my panel… and a dedicated 20A breaker that’s connected to a dedicated plug, it uses that exact suicide cord. I have actually used it during an outage. It powers few lights, including bathroom lights, I plugged it into my EcoFlow power station. I don’t think its unsafe, the led bulbs in total didn’t even use 300w total and the main breaker is off and locked.

[@docbryan01]

Why even make the suicide cords? I just had interlock and inlet box professionally installed. Was thinking about transfer switch but your videos helped with my decision.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Well some don't want to spend the money to have something done right and in a safe manner. Really glad to hear you liked it. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@imadmasarwa3926]

@@HowToHomeDIYIt does get expensive specially if you need to hire an licensed electrician to install a generator inlet and transfer switch and pay $100 for a cable. Having said that, if you happen to live in an area prone to hurricanes or constant power outages that might last for days vs rare power outages that might last for a few hours the investment is worth it.

[@AMSREVIEWS]

I have a suicide plug but it is a 50 amp connected using a male RV plug on both sides wired to the fuse box with heavy guage wire using a double throw 50 amp breaker. No issues. You dont power anything up before pluggin everything in first. If it was so dangerous then 50 amp rv plugs would be dangerous to plug into an rv park or house.

[@NathanATC]

Can you talk a little bit about fire hazards with this issue? Or 220 vs 110? I say that because the main two risks you pointed out on the video can be mitigated by: 1) turn off main breaker in house to prevent back feeding to the electrical grid. 2) turn off all the nonessential breakers you’re not going to be using so that you’re not trying to pull more power than the generator can create or than the line being back-fed can handle 3) plug everything in before turning on the generator so that you’re not holding a live wire. What am I missing?

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Yes they can be but it's not guaranteed. People forget or don't know. That's why everything I talked about is required and better.

[@mjt12567]

Backfeeding a generator is perfectly safe - if you are knowledgeable, prudent, and practice good habits while doing so. The problem is that backfeeding introduces numerous variables with potentially deadly results. If you have wired a few houses, understand load ratings for your cables, and understand how/when to isolate the electricity while working with it, then you are less likely to die.

[@e.l.abusaid2500]

Exactly how does backfeeding flow through a line if the main is shut off?

[@stevehildreth1934]

I got asked by a relative why his generator stumbled and would hardly run when he did this during a power outage. He couldn't grasp he was back feeding the utilities lines and drawing more current than the generator could generate. I also tried to explain he was endangering the linemen attempting to restore the power. Just don't do it!

[@MrsBuddevil]

I'm spending this Holiday arguing with my boyfriend about trying to do this. Some guy told him it could he done, and instead of doing any of his own research or even considering the risks of doing so he's willing to risk burning his home down and risk his own life as well as mine or the linemen. The house was left to him when his dad died, so I guess he oesnt care he didn't have to work for any of it. Yet, no one stops to think why we have so many rules and laws.. umm duh look at all the Damn idiots in the world

[@4321superkris]

What about 15 amp power inlet plug with male and female like be on rv. I want to install to house and just run extension cords thru inside of house two tvs 3 fans microwave refrigerator?

[@barryon8706]

This kind of connection can keep you warm for the rest of your life.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Or you could use a proper connection that does the same thing just safer.

[@barryon8706]

@@HowToHomeDIY That was a bit of a joke. There's a reason it's called a suicide cord.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

@@barryon8706 Oh I got it now LOL!

[@littlecube141]

What would be the best way to install a 50amp inlet for a generator and a 50amp outlet for an rv?

[@tedatkinson4547]

You mention that connecting with male to male into house 110 volt outlet that is wired with 14 ga wire only good for 15 amp. You say generator may be capable of putting out much more current and this could lead to house fire. Please explain how back feeding your panel thru a 15 amp breaker in the panel can accept more than 15 amp no matter how many amps the generator is capable of putting out. Would't the breaker blow?

[@iSphincter]

Very well done!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Really glad to hear you liked it. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@markr3547]

Howdy I had a extension add to my shop and putting in 2 outlets one on each side from the existing wiring. I am putting a light switch and fixture in between these 2 outlets. Using 12-2 wire . My question is what wired I use on the light fixture. It has 2 screws gold and silver.i know on the switch it should be black or hot on top and bottom gold screws and ground/copper on green ground screw. But on fixture no green ground screw ?

[@hanshotfrst803]

For 120v ac you would typically use a "3 wire" set up. black for hot(or gold), white for neutral(or silver), and green for ground. In most distribution panels ground and neutral are bonded together and ring out, so if you are coming from a 3 wire set up and now only have 2 you more than likely are not using a ground anymore. If you have 3 wires and only a gold and silver to terminate you can land hot and neutral where they go and land ground to something on the physical metal housing of the item. Thread and tap in a screw somewhere safely and use a terminal fork.

[@NealVio]

Eh, yes and no. 1. Always turn off the main when backfeeding into the panel. 2. A suicide cord will not have 30 amps running through it. That's like saying that you have 100 amps going to the panel, and then 100 amps going through 14 gauge wire to your outlet. The thickness of the wire determines the current draw. And the 120 volt outlets on the generator aren't going to send 30 amps through them. Now, If you have a 20 amp outlet on the generator and plug it into a 15 amp outlet in your home, then you have a problem. Sometimes I power the house with a 12v battery, but I always shut off the Main breaker, and the 120v produced always goes straight into the panel with a breaker. And in case you think I wrote a typo - Yes, 12v battery can power a house with right toys in between.

[@Ojeramup12]

Yep

[@Mac_Raymond]

Instead of making a suicide cable get a dryer cable and connect it into a inlet box. The light on the inlet box will tell you if you forgot to turn off your main breaker. As long as you turn off your main breaker you can connect a regular generator cable and backfeed safely.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

That’s still a suicide cable.

[@byrons8956]

Thankfully I wouldn’t wire it up in any of these dangerous ways

[@deeeeeeps]

Well as long as you are safe it looks like the male to male is the way to go.

[@TheRayDog]

I will continue to do it and not be babied. Thanks.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

😂👍

[@pavelsakhno6316]

hi is it ok for me to use the 20 amp outlet with my pressure washer and have adapter on the 30 or 50 amp for my other 20 water pump because my generator can’t fit both in the same outlet even though it’s a double but the pressure washer plug is too big

[@matthewhopkins7042]

The world went on fine without safety nerds for tens of thousands of years bro. This hysteria about S-cables only began about ten years ago. Prior to that no one was willing to pay thousands of dollars for an install for a back up $200 generator from a hardware store.

[@patb5923]

So if you have a fuse box just pull your main fuse out first then plug in to dryer outlet then to extension cord then to generator then turn generator on and good? Or would I need to pull all fuses and just put the ones in I need after starting the generator?

[@black69camaro2344]

I think that would depend on the size of the generator and if anything started up immediately and it was greater than the generator could handle

[@checkitoutguy3155]

whats the difference between what a suicide cord does and the Ecoflow Powerstream?

[@n8xja]

At 0:07 in - where can I find that interlock kit?

[@SantiGonzalez-mn2ts]

Thank you for the info

[@aspitofmud6257]

So do you need to put an enclosure around the plug? And do you have your generator run in the rain? Out here our power goes out usually when the wind blows while it's raining.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

The correct cords and power inlet boxes will protect the plugs from the elements. I do not run my generator out in the open rain. I run it either in a generator shed or under an awning. A little rain on it won’t bother it too much but definitely not out getting soaked.

[@matthewmiller6068]

@@HowToHomeDIY Also there are covers you can get to better protect a running generator in wind/rain. I've got one made by GenTent which clamps onto the generator's frame and is designed to not obstruct engine cooling or exhaust but have a covering and flap to protect the main body and outlet-output panel from weather while running.

[@joelwebster1451]

Great video great info

[@Greysen2025]

It is bewildering that suicide cords don't include switches in between or on both sides of a longer cord. Visible led lighting on both ends to visually see if power is present. Always shut off your main braker when connecting a generator.

[@amazegh2000]

thank you

[@damonpolk5628]

Can you do a video on doing smart switches?

[@kwd-2023]

Does anyone reading know an answer to this? I have a generator with a 120v/30amp outlet (tt-30p, which means only one line is hot “green, black, & white”). I’m making a "suicide" extension cord with a tt-30 male on one end to plug into the generator and a NEMA 10-30 dryer plug on the other end to plug into the dryer outlet. The dryer plug/outlet has two hot wires going into the house (black, red, white & but no green). Can I splice together the two hot wires on the dryer end to the single hot wire on the extension cord and be able to power up both poles of the circuit box with 120v? Will the power level be degraded due to the separation into two lines? Will there be any short circuit issue here? And also what do I do with the green wire coming from the generator since there is no green ground wire on the NEMA-30R plug going into the outlet? Thanks

[@imadmasarwa3926]

They sell adapters/ short extensions that go from 120v to 240v and vice versa for this purpose and all the wiring is done inside. I would spend the $20 just to be save.

[@raypalermo1603]

I would plug everything in before I start the generator after I shut the main off and turn off all the breakers on the box then start the generator and flip on the breakers that I want to power.That way I have less chance getting zapped.

[@garyshore5858]

Exactly!

[@byammine]

Although still wrong, the safer way would be shut off main breaker and home outlet breaker, plug suicide cord into home and then into generator. Then you’re handling the cord with no power in it. Then turn on the outlet breaker.

[@Jenn9lamb6088]

I have a question about the wiring in my place i rent. Can you or anyone please help!?🥴 I dont have the$ to call county.

[@centralintelligenceagency9003]

Man the American electrical system is a mess.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Why?

[@coreybabcock2023]

But yes I prefer the proper cords like a rv cord or something like that

[@wiley0714]

Im not supporting the cord, but i am exercising theory. If they plugged into a generator 120 outlet, then there not getting 30 amps, they are only getting the 15/20 depending on the generators outlet amps for the 120. Is that not right? Also, if power was returning on the neutral to the "source" as i understanding the theory of that being what is wants to do, then (with main breaker left on) power flowing out thru the main to a lineman grabbing that live line, is still not grounded to a ground source back to the generator (if bonded system). But if he grabbed a neutral and the live line then power / current would flow thru him into the neutral to return to the load center, to the intermixed ground/neutral in the main panel and then thru the circuit (where the generator is plugged in) and take the neutral back to generator coil. So if that is all theoretically correct. I definitely see the danger and potential to injure others like lineman. And I see the danger of touching exposed prongs on a live cord. Also like I was saying in the beginning even though I understand you can put a 20 amp breaker on a 15 amp receptacle (using this type of cord you would be attempting to pull a lot of current through that receptacle so that you could power every other receptacle), and that would definitely be a fire hazard.

[@hanshotfrst803]

For that very reason lineman short the lines out to protect themselves from backvoltage but destroying your sh*t in the process.

[@deang5622]

If the main breaker is on when you use a suicide cord to connect a generator, then the linesman *IS* at risk. If the breaker is turned off, whether a single pole or double pole, then the linesman is safe. Current in a circuit flows from the voltage source, down the hot line, through the load, back along the neutral line and back to *THAT* voltage source. It does *NOT* flow to another source. People believing that don't understand basic electrical principles. So if you have a power outage, and the breaker is still turned on, and then you go and use a suicide cable with a generator then your generator has the possibly to send current out of your property and firstly attempt to power other properties in the locality, secondly the electricity will go back to the low voltage side of the distribution transformer, be stepped to a high voltage and out the primary side of that transformer and on to the overhead lines, posing a serious risk to any linesmen working on those overhead cables. In both scenarios, the current powering other properties in the locality and the current electrocuting the linesman has originated from the generator you are using, which is connected to your property by way of the suicide cord. That current has to return back from the linesman and it does it using the neutral of the high voltage cable (possibly a bit more complicated than that if it's three phase but I'll ignore that in this discussion), back to the primary of the distribution transformer, it is then converted into a magnetic field, then back to an electrical current in the secondary side of the distribution transformer and back along the neutral line to your property, back through the closed breaker and eventually back to the generator. So for this to happen, the breaker needs to be closed because the circuit using both the neutral and hot lines into your property. If that breaker is either a single pole or double pole breaker, in that it switches either a) hot line only, or b)hot line and neutral line, and that breaker is open, then there is a physical break in the circuit from the generator out to the linesman on the high voltage line, and no current from your generator can flow, and hence the linesman is not in any danger. But mistakes occur. People forget to turn the breaker off. And that is where the danger is to those outside of your property. The way to prevent that is to turn the main breaker off.

[@jbar6618]

With so many idiots I'm surprised the safety nannies allow people to cook or have a fireplace indoors. The supposed suicide cable ( a cable with exposed potentially energized contacts) is commonly used by most generator manufacturers to parallel generator together. The red and white banana plugs are tied directly to line and neutral on the generators output. As for backfeeding the grid, its highly unlikely that any homeowner generator is going to be able provide power for more than a few seconds, given the grid will look like a dead short to the gen. The generator inlet box setup can easily become unsafe if there's no interlock on the breaker box.

[@KingdomUploader]

How could i possibly kill a lineman if my outside main breaker from the pole is switched off? How could power ever leave my box and go that way? As for using a suicide cord, don't people know to NOT to start the generator before plugging in? Don't they know to first switch off all breakers and then plug in the cord and Then crank the generator and then slowly, one by one, start flipping on just the needed inside breakers? I'm sorry and sure, i am an idiot, but even still, i'm just not seeing the problem with.

[@sidmiller6164]

You know what is scarier than a suicide cord, -46 degrees with no furnace for who knows how long.

[@jasonphillips2663]

I don’t know of any outlet that carries 30A without have a 30A plug type, so NO, you will not overload your 12/2 wires in your house if using one of those suicide jumpers. Even 20A connectors require a 90degree prong. So those cables are 15A only, just like the outlets in your house. As for people that don’t open the main breaker, straight to jail. And for people that don’t open the individual circuit breaker to prevent overloading a 15A line, the breakers (gen, house and GFcIs) will keep tripping. We need to stop pretending/acting as if things like a suicide jumpers start fires and electrical shock. This mentality is the same as “guns kill people”.

[@weasel1026]

Need some help please: (anyone) Where can I find an Interlock Kit for my Challenger panel? I've checked a couple websites and am not finding the correct one. Thx

[@scasinger123]

I start my generator and then test to see if it is working by touching the bare leads on the other end of the "suicide" cord. My dad taught me that. I'm still alive.

[@azazelakira12]

You just call me an idiot, LOL

[@HowToHomeDIY]

🤣 Not at all. That’s what people have said in the comments. Take care!

[@azazelakira12]

@@HowToHomeDIY I know, I mean is very dangerous and we try to do things so we will not hurt anyone. Thanks for the info. Be safe.

[@TheFerretHome]

Great video - sage advice! But isn’t the dryer cord is a 240volt cord?

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Yes the dryer cord is. Appreciate the feedback!

[@joel-ud3fg]

Generators have a 30 amp breakers so a 10 awg generator cord is sufficient. I do not understand why people are using a 50 amp outlet with heavier gauge wire unless distance is over 50 feet? You really only need what the generator circuit breaker is rated for which is a 30 amp connectors with 10 awg. It's really that simple. Turn off the main breaker in the service panel first.

[@caffeinatedinsanity2324]

If I ever build a house, i'd have a workshop, where I could also plug a generator, equipped with an exhaust fan and a carbon monoxide detector. Ans the generator would be feeding into a transfer switch. I'm too scared of leavibf my generator outside.

[@royj8549]

1st, you should never do this if you don't have a good understanding of electrical wiring. Having said that, can be done safely (though obviously not to code): - flip off the main breaker. Nearly every utility company has bonding and grounding drilled into linemen, but still. - select a large circuit that exceeds your generator capacity (e.g. 40 amp stove, 50 amp hot tub). Every other circuit would still be breaker protected as they draw power from your panel bus bar - always plug in the house end first, then generator end

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Should just never be done.

[@LostBeetle]

@@HowToHomeDIYOkay nanny, just make everyone behave in accordance to the lowest common denominator then. Sounds like a great way to run the world.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

@LostBeetle clearly you do this and it struck a nerve. There is literally no reason to it this way. The cost of a power inlet box and interlock kit are not very expensive and make sure an accident doesn’t happen. I’m guessing you’ve never made a mistake even though you knew better right? 😂

[@LostBeetle]

@@HowToHomeDIY Whether there is another way has zero bearing on the fact that it can still be done safely. Binary thinking safety nannies treating the entire population like babies is a serious problem in the modern world. I dislike your gaslighting and demeaning mentality greatly. You're wrong. Seethe.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

@@LostBeetle Gaslighting LOL Not just another way, a better and safer way. Wasn't gaslighting, was making a point. You disliking it will definitely cause me to lose sleep tonight though. 😅

[@ippolitius]

My generator came with a selection of cord ends for making your own cord.

[@jacobsonleland]

Maybe you know this already now but that is not a dryer cord 4 prong it is a Range cord Dryer cords have an L shaped prong in the connection, think of it this way Range plug straight slots and prongs, Dryer plugs L prong Laundry.

[@thedubwhisperer2157]

As a Brit I am astonished that a male to male mains cable could even exist - it's quite insane to me. I have never seen such a thing here in over 45 years of DIY electrics, but then we do have the best domestic electrics and connectors of any country!

[@petertothpete6518]

It's called ingenuity by necessity. Better than losing hundreds of dollars of food in the freezer. Not everyone can afford "the right way" or an electrician. Did you notice non of the experts quote what it would cost for them to come out to your home and do the work? We do what we have to to get by. Been using a "suicide cord for 30yrs. It works.

[@markusluukko]

If you have 45 years of experience in electronics you would know how simple it is to make your own cord.

[@tallman11282]

You all also use 230 volts as your electrical standard, that's much higher than the 120 volts we use here in the states (our 240 volts is actually two 120 volt lines with opposite potentials). Your electrical is 230 volts line to neutral, ours is 120 volt line to neutral, 240 line to line. I believe people get complacent with the lower voltage we use because it doesn't seem as dangerous. There's also a lot more a regular untrained person can do with their household electrical system that over there you're required to call an electrician for so there are people who think they can do anything.

[@majorburke9735]

Holy smokes! This is so serious.

[@ShaunBennett]

I have a stupid question. So you give the example of people plugging the glow stick of death into the genney while its running,... creating a live hotend...WHY would they do this while it's live? Plug into genny with genny OFF. Close Main breaker to stop flow leaving the house, plu in the other end to whatever outlet. On most gennys I've seen there a breaker on the Nema-14 outlet, so close that too. Start the gennerator with everything plugged in then open the nema-14 breaker on the genny. I can't speak to fire or other hazzards But it seems ( to me) someone that tried to use this while its live is asking for trouble. Un-informed or not educated in basics of electricity i'm sure plays a big part of this. Please don't misunderstand, I belive in doing it the right way. And I have to say that it's 2024. Everyone living in a area where running a generator in a emergency is a thing should know to turn off the MAIN breaker!

[@angeloamico6146]

It's called a 125v/250v twist lock factory molded generator cord. Wish people that made these videos knew exactly what they're talking about regarding the content.

[@DHSFEMA]

That’s why u use the dryer outlet 220

[@Mark-il5wu]

If you are making connections while your generator is running, Darwin is at work. That being said, ALWAYS make sure main breaker is off while utilizing a generator or battery/inverter backup.

[@BERTGES75]

Just can't be a dummy. I feed my main panel from a sub panel in the garage that has #2 copper between them. Generator is 240v 30amp so I'm good with load for sure.

[@FragEightyfive]

The Breaker-Finder 5000.