I have a portable generator. If we spin off a categorical breaker in a use box as well as additionally spin off any bend breaker, is it protected to block my generator in to my use box by an existent outlet? The opening is 30amp (with neutral as well as ground–a 4 stump outlet) connnected to a 30amp stand in stick breaker. Then, during a energy outage, we can spin upon comparison breakers stuff oneself a fridge, sump pump, as well as alternative light loads. we know there have been improved ways, similar to a send switch. But, practcally speaking, is it safe? Any pull backs or cautions?
#1 by Irv S on October 17, 2009 - 8:24 am
It is possible, and workable with some cautions:
1. You must be ABSOLUTELY POSITIVE that you have the
main breaker open before you connect that generator and keep it so
until the genny is disconnected..
You can’t power the grid, but you can kill an unsuspecting line worker
who ‘knows’ the line is dead.- It HAS happened.
(I know you are aware of this requirement, but it’s easy to make a
mistake if you’re hurried or stressed and the consequences can be serious.)
Also should power be restored with that genny connected, it is guaranteed to be out of phase with the genny. The results might
be uncomfortably spectacular.
2. That cord with two male plugs can be a dangerous object to leave lying about.
When energized, there are exposed live terminals. Should it pull
out while the generator is running or should some-one mistake it
for a normal cord, and connect one end without inspecting the other
an accident is too likely.
3. Be sure you get a cord that will handle the current you’ll be using.
Most cords are sized for a lot less current and for intermittent loads.
4. Do be aware that you will be violating the Code, voiding insurance
coverage for any consequences, and in general held responsible if
anything goes wrong. Be very careful.
#2 by Jim W on October 17, 2009 - 8:24 am
It is not a safe way of doing what you want. If you add a transfer switch to your panel and have it installed and inspected by qualified professional personnel you can do what you want to accomplish. Do not try to power your home by back feeding the system. There are too many dangers to you and the people who are trying to repair the downed power lines.
The 2 main problems with what you describe are the needed double male cord and the NEC code violations which can result in fires and injuries and sometimes lawsuits.
Just do it right and install the transfer switch and have it inspected.
For emergency use, use some extension cords.
#3 by stan c on October 17, 2009 - 8:24 am
Do not do this!!!! You could kill the lineman trying to restore your power!! the slightest mistake or overlooked switch can send power down the line, possibly through a transformer, getting stepped up in voltage and frying the person who is trying to restore the power to you!
#4 by Ron G on October 17, 2009 - 8:24 am
Practically speaking this is safe if you follow a few rules. ALWAYs turn off the main breaker first. The drawback is that you will not know when the power is back on. Select the breakers you want to charge and never overload them. Get a chart to see the running loads as well as the startup loads. You may not be able to run much but I do this everytime the power goes off for an extended period. The last is always ground the generator with a regular grounding rod. At some new construction sites the house is sometimes powered this way before the main power gets turned on. There are drawbacks of course but if you do not overload the system you should be fine and protected with the generators breakers.