{"id":5503,"date":"2021-09-21T09:29:38","date_gmt":"2021-09-21T09:29:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/woodsybond.com\/?p=5503"},"modified":"2021-10-05T14:32:56","modified_gmt":"2021-10-05T14:32:56","slug":"how-to-wire-a-generator-to-a-breaker-box","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/woodsybond.com\/how-to-wire-a-generator-to-a-breaker-box\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Wire a Generator to a Breaker Box"},"content":{"rendered":"

Connecting a generator to a breaker box is not as complicated as it sounds; with a few simple steps, you can help yourself out of power cuts while at the same time protecting your equipment.<\/span><\/p>\n

We’ve put up a list of all of the equipment and instructions you’ll need to connect your generator to a breaker box yourself. Let’s get started!<\/span><\/p>\n

To accomplish the task, first determine what kind of generator you’re working with. Then find out the amperage and plug type of your generator’s power system so that you can plan for the appropriate devices you’ll need.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Determining the Power of the Generator<\/strong><\/h2>\n

\"\"The generator’s label is where you’ll find out the wattage or amp draw. The second method is to check the plug closely, as the amperage is inscribed on the plug mostly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Check the wattage and amperage of the generator and make a note. The generator’s wattage will help you determine if the generator can run your appliances or not. It also helps to select the size of your household circuit breakers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Materials Required to Connect Generator to the Box<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Below is the list of equipment and materials you’ll need for the job:<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Transfer switch<\/b>: The transfer switch breaks and connects the circuits when you change between grid electricity and generator power. It is an optional instrument; you can work without it too.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Breaker interlock kit<\/b>: If the transfer switch is not available, you can use the interlock kit. It gets plugged in between the generator’s plug and the home’s breaker panel.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Double pole breakers:<\/b> Make sure you have the same amperage breaker as your generator.<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. Power inlet box:<\/b> This acts somewhat like a junction box. It connects the generator’s power inlet with your home system main panel.<\/span><\/li>\n
  5. Heavy-duty wire:<\/b> You’ll need a thick wire for connecting the generator to the power inlet box. The size is determined by checking your appliance’s manual.<\/span><\/li>\n
  6. Fuses:<\/b> The fuses installed on your circuit breaker panel must match the amperage rating of your generator.<\/span><\/li>\n
  7. Conduit body:<\/b> A cover body protects the wiring from weather elements.<\/span><\/li>\n
  8. Conduit glue:<\/b> Glue is used to secure the conduit body to the electrical box.<\/span><\/li>\n
  9. Extension cords:<\/b> You’ll need one cord for supplying power to the interlock kit.<\/span><\/li>\n
  10. Electrician’s pliers & wire strippers:<\/b> These are essential tools that help you prepare the wire perfectly before connecting them with plugs and sockets.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
    \n

    Step by Step Guide to Wire a Generator to Breaker Box<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Below we have put together a step-by-step tutorial for wiring a generator to a breaker box. It is divided into six steps to make the process easy for you.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Step # 1: Drill Access Hole in Your Exterior Wall<\/b><\/h3>\n

    An access hole is required since you’ll need it to pass the wires through the generator outside to your house’s electrical system. You can make this hole with a hammer drill, a power drill, or an auger. Check your local electrical code for details on how to drill the hole. Be careful to drill this hole closer to the main switch.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Step # 2: Set Up Your Power Inlet Box to the Wall<\/b><\/h3>\n

    \"\"Unscrew the front cover of the power inlet box, then fix the box on the wall with the help of screws and drill. You’ll need at least 3 to 4 holes to fit the power inlet box. Conduit glue is used along screws to secure the box from environmental elements.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Step # 3: Attaching the Conduit Tube to the Inlet Box and the Access Hole<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Now, pass the wire through the conduit body and place the conduit tube between the inlet box and the access hole with no space in between. Seal the body with the help of conduit glue, taking care to cover all gaps. Leave the glue to dry for a few minutes for firming the seal.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Step # 4: Wire Up the Generator Inlet Plug<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Once the glue is completely dry, it’s time to connect your transfer switch with the power inlet box. Make sure that the power supply to the transfer switch is turned off.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Remove the cover from the main power box and then pull each wire one at a time out of the conduit. Remove an inch or two of insulation from the end of each wire. Make sure you do not damage the wires’ colored coating.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Attach one stripped cable to each terminal, twisting them clockwise with a pair of pliers for tightening.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n