Generator transfer panel question

[subarub4]

I'm looking at this one over the one with the individual flip switches, this panel has two positions utility and generator power, what has me a little puzzled is on the utility side from the main panel to this sub panel if I'm right I would need to call the power company to tell them to disconnect power to the house while the work is being done because of the live wire going to the main disconnect switch?

If that's not the case I can't see how it disconnects from the utility power if still connected to the main panel but the sub panel is just acting as a switch between generator and utility.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200196624_200196624

 

[aandpdan]

The line from the meter that goes into your current panel is removed. It goes into one side of this switch. The other side goes to your generator inlet. A new line is then run from this switch into your existing panel to "feed" it.

You need to disconnect the power to install the switch. After that, it will disconnect your entire panel. You can turn both "off" if you want but only one can be on at a time.

Have you considered an interlock instead? It might be easier, and likely cheaper.

 

[subarub4]

yeah I was thinking about a interlock, my panel is a Murray so the interlock kit is $149

what I wanted to know is the generator input plug how would it be wired to the panel?

I assume I have to install another breaker but I will have to move about 4 down one slot in order for the interlock to work since the new breaker is almost at the lower part and the interlock is only but so long.

 

[442stu]

Check out siemens web site for the Murray interlocks. They have them for most models and they're like $30 and UL approved. Many local codes require the interlock be from the panel manufacturer and approved as such. The aftermarket kits may not be approved. YMMV, just stating my findings here in ny.

 

[pattenp]

You will need to install a breaker for the gen and the gen breaker placement is under the main breaker for the interlock to work.

This one at Lowes may fit your panel. http://www.lowes.com/pd_317963-1318...L=?Ns=p_product_qty_sales_dollar|1&facetInfo=

 

[subarub4]

I love this site! thanks guys! So I take it Siemens stuff interchanges with Murray panels? I can't much of any info at all on Murray stuff.

I don't think that interlock on the Lowes site will work with my panel

I was thinking of buying this

http://www.interlockkit.com/murray01.htm

 

[pattenp]

It's amazing that those interlock kits cost $150. They have to be making a profit of over $100 on each one. Unless the UL testing cost them a fortune.

 

[subarub4]

I think it's the UL testing

 

[Burtonrider10022]

Yeah... I have every intention of machining my own. $150? no effing way.

 

[442stu]

http://w3.usa.siemens.com/us/intern...ocs/Standby_Power_Interlock_Kits_Brochure.pdf

Hereis the link. Check for your model panel.

 

[subarub4]

Does Siemens have backfeed breakers?

 

[Dick in Wisconsin]

Does Siemens have backfeed breakers?

What is a backfeed breaker?

 

[subarub4]

What is a backfeed breaker?

I'm trying to find that out myself.. I can't see why you just can't use a normal breaker?

I asked because on that link for the interlock kit they are listed under the accessory page.

 

[pattenp]

A back fed breaker is a regular breaker. It's called a back fed because the power source is coming in through that breaker in a reverse direction.

 

[subarub4]

Ah ok.

 

[Jeff95TA]

My power company wouldn't accept an interlock kit. I don't know how they'd ever find out, but I didn't chance it and did a transfer switch.

 

[subarub4]

You told them you were doing work on the panel? From what I heard a transfer panel requires a permit.

 

[pattenp]

My power company wouldn't accept an interlock kit. I don't know how they'd ever find out, but I didn't chance it and did a transfer switch.

The power company here has nothing to do with any thing past the meter. After the meter it's all NEC enforced by our local electrical inspector.

 

[subarub4]

Yeah that's how it is here.