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How to connect generator to house without transfer switch

This is not an easy and simple question, and therefore, connecting a generator to a house without a transfer switch, on the one hand, is possible, and on the other hand, it can be very unsafe.

No matter how it sounds, for your safety, you definitely need a transfer switch. If you neglect to purchase this switch, it can affect the efficiency of your work and even threaten your safety.

Any work with electricity must be first and foremost safe. You can protect yourself by using only quality generators, equipment and, in fact, the right tools.

connect generator to house

How to hook up generator to house without transfer switch

As mentioned, generator hookup may be dangerous if you have never worked with electrical appliances before and have no experience with them.

Tools required for work

A basic set of tools for working with electrical equipment. You will need a drill, pliers, wrench, screwdriver set, electrical tape.

  • Protective clothing. This is the first point to think about. It is best to use boots with a steel cap, which will have a grounding effect on your body, protecting against electrical discharge, a device that stabilizes the voltage, and of course work gloves.
  • Wires for electricity works. Ideally, you need about 3 sets of wires at least 10 feet long and 10 gauge wires. If possible, also use wires of different colors. This will help you not to get confused about them.
  • Interlock kit. It is very important that this kit matches the specifications of your generator.
  • The breaker is also a very important part of most installations of this kind of equipment. It should match the generator’s capacity and the requirements of your home. Normally, a two-pole circuit breaker of about 30 amperes is sufficient.
  • Inlet plug. Provide for the generator to have a large round fork. You also need to know the rated current and be 100% sure that the plug matches the power of the generator.

Installation process

  • Locate the access point. Then, using a drill, drill a hole in the wall of the house. Note that it needs to be drilled as far away from the generator position as possible.
  • The next step is to install the outlet outside. It is best to install it close to the drilled hole within a few feet.
  • Now, be sure to turn off all power in the house using the main switch.
  • After turning off the power, you need to assemble the conduit at the power inlet. Make sure everything is connected securely and well and then pass them through the hole in the wall one by one.
  • Then, install the breaker lock into the breaker box. There is also an option to install a new breaker to be sure of efficient work.
  • Finally, connect the inlet wire to the breaker holder or whatever you have installed. At this point, the connecting generator to home can be considered complete.

For emergency situations, you can always use a portable generator with extension cords.

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