Power outage

[cowadle]

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Siemens...r-Non-Fusible-Safety-Switch-DTNF321/205623376
here is an example. they can be found much cheaper so just use this as an example

 

[cowadle]

https://www.homedepot.com/p/GE-30-A...-Double-Throw-Safety-Switch-TC35321/202978650
another example. same amperage much cheaper

 

[Boehlertaught]

These power outages are a real pain and this appears be getting worse on a daily basis. The future looks bad to if what's going on in the gas compression industry continues. I work for a company that builds new and refurbishes used compressor packages. Many new packages are electric motor drive and lots of companies are having their existing packages converted from gas engine drive to electric motor drive. Most of these packages are 1400 horsepower to 5000 horse power. And they are all over central and west Oklahoma.

 

[tyromeo55]

Homeowner pulling a meter may be “illegal”, but every power company person I’ve ever dealt with has understood the situation if it’s done to wire in a generator in an “emergency”.

Pulling a meter may be "aginst the rules" but its not illegal. I agree that most POCO's are pretty understanding. Especially if your yor doing something for safety reasons. Pro tip. Getting inside a meter base can be pretty dangerous especially if someting inside is busted or corroded together. If you still think you must and know what your doing make sure Kill the load before you do.

 

[tyromeo55]

Where at? All the circuit breaker interlock kits I've seen are running about $300+.

Amazon. Try to get one that has some sort of listing like UL or ETL

 

[tyromeo55]

exactly. probably depends on your relationship with the supply. i have never had a problem in an emergency but i now have the double throw switches installed and it is impossible to backfeed or ruin my genny from the power coming back on. i installed the switches myself and if you get one that matches the amperage of your generator the switch can be pretty cheap. it isn't automatic and has no frills but is absolutely safe.

If your going to intercept the feeder wires from the meter you will need a transfer switch rated at or above what the service is rated for (feeder wire, buss size, over-current protection rating) not just the size of the generator. It would also need to be service rated and be protected by some sort of OCP that has the proper fault current capacity. If its going outdoors it would need to be outdoor rated too. The 30A ones you referenced would not be suitable. Also, most counties in OK will require a permit.

 

[golddigger14s]

I installed this in my WA house.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Reliance-Controls-30-Amp-6-Circuit-Manual-Transfer-Switch-306A/206499418

 

[tyromeo55]

I installed this in my WA house.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Reliance-Controls-30-Amp-6-Circuit-Manual-Transfer-Switch-306A/206499418

I approve =)

 

[Timmy59]

Since I have access to you better versed men, here is what I am leaning to for our old 100 amp panel.
https://www.interlockkit.com/product_p/k-9410.htmhttps://www.interlockkit.com/product_p/brgb.htmhttps://www.interlockkit.com/product_p/gcb30.htmhttps://www.interlockkit.com/product_p/30gpc.htmThe young man I spoke to at the biz said this would fit my needs.
The facial and backing plate seems high but it's stainless and no doubt better than what I could fabricate.
The 25 or 30' cable looks to be fair priced, I guess the breaker is fair priced as well but the inlet / outlet box could be bought cheaper. About $360 all toll and they will give me a 10% vet discount. Now to hear what you more savy fellows have to say. Please and Thank you..

 

[tyromeo55]

Since I have access to you better versed men, here is what I am leaning to for our old 100 amp panel.
https://www.interlockkit.com/product_p/k-9410.htmhttps://www.interlockkit.com/product_p/brgb.htmhttps://www.interlockkit.com/product_p/gcb30.htmhttps://www.interlockkit.com/product_p/30gpc.htmThe young man I spoke to at the biz said this would fit my needs.
The facial and backing plate seems high but it's stainless and no doubt better than what I could fabricate.
The 25 or 30' cable looks to be fair priced, I guess the breaker is fair priced as well but the inlet / outlet box could be bought cheaper. About $360 all toll and they will give me a 10% vet discount. Now to hear what you more savy fellows have to say. Please and Thank you..

Post (or pm) the following pictures

your main panel with door open
Your generator
Generator outlets (the whole plate)