2000 watt generator to transfer switch?

[99LeCouch]

I ended up getting a 2000 watt inverter generator for running our small camper. The Mrs wants to have it run some circuits in the house. Fridge, freezer, furnace, maybe a light or two. We would juggle loads as needed. No running the furnace with the fridge, etc. I looked at a Reliant 6 circuit transfer switch, which would allow us to do just that.

The problem is the generator has the typical residential style 15 amp 3 wire outlets, and the transfer switch inlet is a 4 wire generator inlet (L14-30). The transfer switch would be wired up per directions, with the two hot wires feeding 3 circuits each. So that would mean cobbling up a cord to work. In theory, the two hot wires at the female end of the cord from the generator could be jumpered to power both hot legs.

So, is that theory doable in the real world?

 

[theoldwizard1]

While the Reliant transfer switch is very popular, it is not the most "flexible" solution and takes a lot of time to install.

Look up the make and model of your breaker panel and then find a generator interlock kit for it. MUCH EASIER TO INSTALL ! Plus, you can "manage" your loads as required (i.e. you do not have to pick which circuits are covered at the time of installation).

No issues tying L1 to L2 except of course no 240V appliance will work. Do it at the male end of your cord.

 

[dave*99]

I ended up getting a 2000 watt inverter generator for running our small camper. The Mrs wants to have it run some circuits in the house. Fridge, freezer, furnace, maybe a light or two. We would juggle loads as needed. No running the furnace with the fridge, etc. I looked at a Reliant 6 circuit transfer switch, which would allow us to do just that.

The problem is the generator has the typical residential style 15 amp 3 wire outlets, and the transfer switch inlet is a 4 wire generator inlet (L14-30). The transfer switch would be wired up per directions, with the two hot wires feeding 3 circuits each. So that would mean cobbling up a cord to work. In theory, the two hot wires at the female end of the cord from the generator could be jumpered to power both hot legs.

So, is that theory doable in the real world?

Read up on the capability of a 2000W generator. You mention a number of loads that contain motors. Start up current can be an issue. Especially when you have multiple loads operating simultaneously.

 

[99LeCouch]

I don't plan on operating those things simultaneously, so inrush shouldn't be that big an issue. Crank the heat to 75, let it drop to 60, run the fridge or freezer while the house cools, and repeat.

The Mrs wants one, although we rarely lose power. As they say, happy wife, happy life.

 

[ericm]

It's a pain to plug and unplug the fridge, then the heat, while monitoring their needs. (is it the fridges' turn or the heat's turn?). My wife is reasonably competent with mechanical things and she would find that very frustrating.

You may want to get a larger generator for the house and save the 2000w one for camping.

 

[theoldwizard1]

I don't plan on operating those things simultaneously, so inrush shouldn't be that big an issue. Crank the heat to 75, let it drop to 60, run the fridge or freezer while the house cools, and repeat.

The Mrs wants one, although we rarely lose power. As they say, happy wife, happy life.

Don't bother with messing with the thermostat ! The likelihood both will start at the exact same time is low. Fridge and freezer are pretty low draw once they are running.

Watch out for coffee pot, microwave, toaster, hair dryer. No welding !

 

[Mowerpan]

I have the 6 Circuit transfer switch at my house and have installed a few interlocks for friends. Go with the interlock. As mentioned above it is much easier to install and can power many more low amp circuits as opposed to the transfer switch. This option will also allow you to match the inlet plug to the twist lock on the generator.

 

[LS6 Tommy]

I have a Reliant 10 circuit Xfer switch. If I knew then what I do now, I would have used an interlock instead, if it was allowable. Some AHJs will only allow a transfer switch.

Tommy

 

[99LeCouch]

Thanks for the feedback, everyone!

I'll look at what panel is out there. It was new about 2 years ago, so it should have an interlock available.

That also makes wiring easier, since running one new wire is easier than intercepting and running a few different circuits.