Your last generator Maintenance Run

[BRMyers]

Got the generator out, checked everything, ran it for an hour with a load on it.

Already to go, hoping not to need it.

 

[daugen]

Dave, with your permission, have some questions not entirely related to this thread, but the gen knowledge here is really good...
I'm going to rent my next home so no automatic whole house gen this time.
Picking out the generator is not hard for me, good comparison shopper.
What I want to get right are the components needed to install on house.
I want to run a single 50 amp line into main box, and not have separate breakers.
I am very skilled at "shedding load" having owned boats before. No problems throwing breakers first on hot water heaters, etc.

So...I know I need a manual disconnect switch and then a 50amp inlet/interconnect box for wall. If an automatic switch is needed for modern code, ok.
Could someone suggest the right parts, US made if possible, that I need to plan on. Will used licensed electrician to install.
thanks Drew

 

[grsthegreat]

Manufacturers | GenInterlock

You need to know what main panel you have
Then you need generator inlet box.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/GE-50-A...VDh6tBh2FjQXMEAQYASABEgJo0vD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

you dont use a auto transfer switch on a portable generator. You manually shed your own loads.

 

[shaeff]

Few weeks ago we had an outage that lasted about 8 hours or so. It was sweltering hot out. I've never tried to run my central air off the genset. Porter Cable H1000is-w (10kw, 19.5k surge). It grunted pretty good when the compressor kicked, but recovered quickly and ran the central air. If it hit too hard I'd have left the AC off, but it seemed to take it ok. I gotta put an amp clamp on it to see what it's drawing off the generator. Don't want to be starting any fires...

 

[daugen]

Manufacturers | GenInterlock

You need to know what main panel you have
Then you need generator inlet box.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/GE-50-A...VDh6tBh2FjQXMEAQYASABEgJo0vD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

you dont use a auto transfer switch on a portable generator. You manually shed your own loads.

Thanks GRS, they all look very similar, surprisingly low priced, my preference is for one with a no brainer can't have both on at once
lock mechanism like this: Generator Interlock Kit / OEM Model Square D QO 1 A Indoor & Outdoor Panel | GenInterlock

clearly all the cost here is for the electrician, proximity to main panel, etc.

 

[TractorGuy]

Dave, with your permission, have some questions not entirely related to this thread, but the gen knowledge here is really good...
I'm going to rent my next home so no automatic whole house gen this time.
Picking out the generator is not hard for me, good comparison shopper.
What I want to get right are the components needed to install on house.
I want to run a single 50 amp line into main box, and not have separate breakers.
I am very skilled at "shedding load" having owned boats before. No problems throwing breakers first on hot water heaters, etc.

So...I know I need a manual disconnect switch and then a 50amp inlet/interconnect box for wall. If an automatic switch is needed for modern code, ok.
Could someone suggest the right parts, US made if possible, that I need to plan on. Will used licensed electrician to install.
thanks Drew

The interlocks are great and eliminate the possibility of backfeeding power into the grid.

I see a couple of things in play here. The first order of business would be to get the modifications approved by the landlord.

After that since you intend to go all proper I would just hire a licensed generator installer / electrician to supply the parts and modify the panels. They will know what the code allows and doesn't in your area.

 

[3930dave]

Dave, with your permission, have some questions not entirely related to this thread, but the gen knowledge here is really good...
I'm going to rent my next home so no automatic whole house gen this time.
Picking out the generator is not hard for me, good comparison shopper.
What I want to get right are the components needed to install on house.
I want to run a single 50 amp line into main box, and not have separate breakers.
I am very skilled at "shedding load" having owned boats before. No problems throwing breakers first on hot water heaters, etc.

So...I know I need a manual disconnect switch and then a 50amp inlet/interconnect box for wall. If an automatic switch is needed for modern code, ok.
Could someone suggest the right parts, US made if possible, that I need to plan on. Will used licensed electrician to install.
thanks Drew

Good topic d. I'm sure plenty of other people are interested in seeing these responses.

Rgds, D.

 

[3930dave]

Got the generator out, checked everything, ran it for an hour with a load on it.

Already to go, hoping not to need it.

You've paid your dues, 'ol Murphy should pass you by ! :thumbsup:

Rgds, D.

 

[grsthegreat]

There really very easy to install. They come with templets and good instructions. There all UL Approved. You need to run 6/3 romex with ground between new breaker in panel (generator feed) and input outlet and your good for 50 amps. The generator feed breaker would be a 50 amp. But first thing to know is brand and model of panel with main breaker.

But since it is a rental, landlord will probably want it installed by a licensed electrician due to the insurance. I used to have rental property and i always insisted on licensed work. The law suits that could result from shoddy, unlicensed work was too much to contemplate... thats why i got out of it.

 

[3930dave]

Few weeks ago we had an outage that lasted about 8 hours or so. It was sweltering hot out. I've never tried to run my central air off the genset. Porter Cable H1000is-w (10kw, 19.5k surge). It grunted pretty good when the compressor kicked, but recovered quickly and ran the central air. If it hit too hard I'd have left the AC off, but it seemed to take it ok. I gotta put an amp clamp on it to see what it's drawing off the generator. Don't want to be starting any fires...

Post the tonnage of your AC.... somebody may be able to ballpark that surge level.

I can't remember the trade-name at the moment, but I'm thinking we've had modules posted on here that will help buffer that startup current.

Rgds, D.