05-16-2015, 06:00 AM
If your main disconnect switch ( the 100, or 125 amp breaker) is isolated ( has conductors (wires) on both sides) you could run the transfer switch rated for same from the side that feeds your smaller circuits in a loop pattern from main disconnect to transfer to small circuits. The benefit of the transfer switch is that it assures that the main feeder is cut off completely before the generator power is applied so you do not have an over current problem and resulting meltdown and fire once the power on the HELCO side is restored.
Another way is to run the generator power thru 2 20 amp breakers, one on each side ( have to serve each buss bar for balanced load) on the opposite end of the panel from the main breaker, similar to a photovoltaic connection, with a "DANGER-read instructions on panel cover" by each 20 amp breaker.
Instructions would read as 20 amp breakers are an alternate power feed and main disconnect MUST be turned off before energizing panel with these breakers, reverse sequence once utility power is restored. Not following this sequence will result in possible electrocution and fire, or similar wording.
Then put a mark by the breakers as a reference to use (ie: fridge/freezer, one lighting circuit) for leaving marked breakers on, and turn off the rest of the breakers while using your emergency power.
Kind of a hassle, but if you know how to transfer power properly, it works. Prime key notes to take in any back feed by generator is make sure primary source of power, whether HELCO or generator, is turned off BEFORE introducing another power source, even if that power source is not producing power at that moment.
Community begins with Aloha
Another way is to run the generator power thru 2 20 amp breakers, one on each side ( have to serve each buss bar for balanced load) on the opposite end of the panel from the main breaker, similar to a photovoltaic connection, with a "DANGER-read instructions on panel cover" by each 20 amp breaker.
Instructions would read as 20 amp breakers are an alternate power feed and main disconnect MUST be turned off before energizing panel with these breakers, reverse sequence once utility power is restored. Not following this sequence will result in possible electrocution and fire, or similar wording.
Then put a mark by the breakers as a reference to use (ie: fridge/freezer, one lighting circuit) for leaving marked breakers on, and turn off the rest of the breakers while using your emergency power.
Kind of a hassle, but if you know how to transfer power properly, it works. Prime key notes to take in any back feed by generator is make sure primary source of power, whether HELCO or generator, is turned off BEFORE introducing another power source, even if that power source is not producing power at that moment.
Community begins with Aloha