Generator interlock for only 1 panel of 2 main panel service

[neftci]

Newbie here. Apologize if I should have built on a previous thread. I have read previous generator interlock threads about those trying to power both panels of a 2 panel 320 amp split service, with one generator. I have 2 main panels as well, but for me, all the loads I want to power are one panel. So any reason given my setup shown in the pictures that I cannot just use one interlock on that panel? I would have a 30 amp generator inlet outlet installed outside and run into the panel and connected to a 30 amp generator breaker in the correct position for the interlock.

All the previous threads seem to suggest that this fine but want to check before I proceed. My panels are fed by the trough shown in the picture and although I did not want to open it up, I assume the panel's neutrals and grounds are joined based on continuity tests I did at the panels.

Also question about the neutral. Since the interlock does not switch the neutral, why does this not create a parallel neutral situation where the generator power can flow either back to the generator via the generator circuit and/or out to the transformer via the service neutral?

Thank you in advance

I

 

[nadogail]

Yes, you are correct. The shared neutral can become energized, this was demonstrated to me a long time ago in a place far away, but it is still true.

 

[nadogail]

After a couple of minutes thought, I realized that in the US and Canada current practice is that Neutrals are grounded at the Service Entrance.

 

[mark-NJ]

deleted

 

[theoldwizard1]

Both panels are fed by the trough shown in the picture ..

So the meter is double tapped ?

You can add a generator interlock to either or BOTH panels. The interlock will prevent any "back feeding" "upstream".

 

[neftci]

Yes the meter is double tapped. thank you

 

[larry4406]

My previous house was 400A service with two separate electric panels like yours (double tapped meter).

The generator served only one panel like yours with the most critical loads. Was kind of neat as lights on the other panel would come on when utility power came back so we knew it was time to turn off the generator.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Newbie here. Apologize if I should have built on a previous thread. I have read previous generator interlock threads about those trying to power both panels of a 2 panel 320 amp split service, with one generator. I have 2 main panels as well, but for me, all the loads I want to power are one panel. So any reason given my setup shown in the pictures that I cannot just use one interlock on that panel? I would have a 30 amp generator inlet outlet installed outside and run into the panel and connected to a 30 amp generator breaker in the correct position for the interlock.

All the previous threads seem to suggest that this fine but want to check before I proceed. My panels are fed by the trough shown in the picture and although I did not want to open it up, I assume the panel's neutrals and grounds are joined based on continuity tests I did at the panels.

yes that will be fine....

Also question about the neutral. Since the interlock does not switch the neutral, why does this not create a parallel neutral situation where the generator power can flow either back to the generator via the generator circuit and/or out to the transformer via the service neutral?

Thank you in advance

Contrary to popular misperception, electricity returns to its source.

So any current from the generator on the neutral wont be going back to the transformer, because the source is the generator...

Yes, you are correct. The shared neutral can become energized, this was demonstrated to me a long time ago in a place far away, but it is still true.

but that isnt even a concern since the neutral return current will go back to the generator NOT the transformer... furthermore, the neutral in a main service panel is at the same potential as the ground, so there is no potential for shock

 

[neftci]

yes that will be fine....

Contrary to popular misperception, electricity returns to its source.

So any current from the generator on the neutral wont be going back to the transformer, because the source is the generator...

but that isnt even a concern since the neutral return current will go back to the generator NOT the transformer... furthermore, the neutral in a main service panel is at the same potential as the ground, so there is no potential for shock

Thank you for your reply