How to Hook up a Generator to Your House: Installation, Safety, & More

PDF download Download Article
Be prepared for anything with our comprehensive guide to DIY generator hookup
PDF download Download Article

Let’s face it, power outages are inconvenient and stressful. Thankfully, portable generators can provide emergency electrical power to a home when the main power source, or the national grid, goes out. Connecting a portable generator to a house can be tricky, but with our comprehensive guide, you’re in good hands. Read on to learn about the safest, most straightforward ways to connect a portable generator to your home, so you can rest easy knowing you’ve got backup for whatever comes your way!

Things You Should Know

  • Opt for a manual transfer switch wiring system over an interlock kit. It must be installed professionally but is the safest, legal option.
  • Install an inlet box hookup to the exterior of your home. Be sure to place the generator as far away from your house as possible while still being able to plug it in.
  • Plug the generator into the inlet box and check it has enough oil. Turn it on and flip the breakers one by one to power your home.
Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Wiring the System

PDF download Download Article
  1. Figure out what appliances you can’t live without, like lighting, medical equipment, fridges, etc. A petrol-driven generator with a rated power of about 3500W will serve for lighting, TV, fans, and a fridge or freezer. The rated power is usually written on the body of the generator and is the amount of power the generator can deliver continuously for an average of 12 hours on a single tank of fuel. [1]
    • The power ratings of generators are typically expressed in Kilo Volt Amperes or KVA.
    • Stoves, air conditioners, and tumble driers use too much power from a typical portable generator.
  2. A typical microwave, for instance, uses 1500 watts, while a whole circuit of lights with CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) bulbs may only require 150 watts. Refrigerators use around 1200-1500 watts but have a starting capacitor that increases the wattage momentarily when the compressor starts. Televisions use less the 1000 watts depending on the type and size. A small room fan may use about 500 watts, and so on.
    Advertisement
  3. Contact your local Department of Labor and Industries, Planning Department, or Power Company to learn about regulations, necessary permits, and the legal wiring system of your area. Don’t consult the internet to determine which system is legal in your area, as many unqualified sources offer inaccurate, unsafe advice. Wiring laws can vary significantly between countries, states, and even cities, making it that much more important to contact your local department first. [2]
    • Several different wiring system options are used to connect a generator to a house, the two most popular wiring systems being the following:
      • Manual transfer switch. This is a slightly more expensive piece of equipment requiring professional installation. However, it’s the only guaranteed legal option and the safest. A professional installation will keep you from accidentally electrocuting someone else or yourself and ensure your portable generator runs as best it can.
      • Interlock kit: These are fairly simple to install and the cheapest option. However, they are illegal in many areas and can be very unsafe. Interlock kits must be installed with the utmost care and correctness. Additionally, safe installation requires that you have several extra spaces in your existing breaker box or that you install a new one, which must be done professionally. It is a strict requirement that you get a kit approved for your specific breaker box (the same company should make it). [3]
  4. An inlet box hookup will go outside your house, have a recessed male connector (prongs that stick out rather than holes you plug into), and connect to whichever panel system you installed inside your house. A professional should install the inlet box to keep you safe and ensure your system remains up to code. [4]
    • If you don't have this installed by a professional, your insurance may be unable to cover your home, the city you live in could enforce a heavy fine, and you are very likely to hurt either yourself or someone else (in a hospital-if-you're-lucky kind of way).
  5. You’ll find plenty of inaccurate, dangerous advice and instructions on the internet that can put you at risk for injury, electrocution, or a fire. Always check with your city specialists before installing wiring and connecting your generator to determine the safest and most suitable method. Some common don’ts include: [5]
    • Don’t connect your generator directly to your breaker box without an approved transfer switch.
    • Don’t connect your generator to a washing machine or dryer outlet.
    • Don’t run a generator in your home or garage.
    • Don’t allow children or pets anywhere near your generator.
  6. A professional inspection is essential if you don’t have experience with electrical work. You want to be sure that your family stays safe and, in the event of a fire, that your insurance company cannot dispute your claim because of "faulty wiring." [6]
    7. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Plugging It In

PDF download Download Article
  1. Place the generator as far away from your home as possible with the cable it comes with, or at a minimum of 10 feet (3 m). This is to prevent your home from catching fire should something go wrong with the generator and avoid carbon monoxide poisoning from the generator exhaust, which can be deadly. [7]
    • Placing your generator at least 10 feet (3 m) away from your home is a critical and necessary safety precaution.
  2. Match the holes at the end of the generator's cord to the prongs on your hookup. Then, plug it in . You’ll likely have to turn the plug (usually about 15 degrees) to complete the connection to your hookup.
  3. Your generator should have come with a cable to connect to your house. Plug it in, select which voltage you want (if you can), and do the same turn of the plug (about 15 degrees) that you did with the other end and the receptacle.
    • Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet or your home’s wiring.
    • Be sure to unplug and turn off all appliances before operating your generator. [8]
  4. Generators need oil to lubricate their running parts so they operate safely and efficiently. Check that the throttle for the engine is in the correct position according to your user's manual and that the engine has enough oil. [9]
    • Add more oil according to your user's manual if needed.
    • You may need to preheat the engine with the glow plug (a heating element that heats incoming fuel and air) if it’s under 32 degrees (0 C) where you live.
    • Consult your user’s manual to learn how to properly operate the glow plug feature (if your generator has one).
  5. Start your generator's engine according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most generators will have an obvious "START" switch or key. Let your generator run for around 5 minutes to warm up before switching the systems and flipping the breakers. [10]
    • Never start or stop the generator with other electrical devices plugged into the same socket.
  6. Go to your breaker. Then, flip off the utility main and turn on the generator main. You're almost ready for action! [11]
  7. Flip the breakers on the system you installed, slowly turning on all the loads one by one. Your portable generator should now be running electricity into your home. Great job! [12]
  8. To return to utility power, reverse the order of operations by flipping the circuit breakers one by one to the “OFF” position. Then, turn your generator off by flipping its switch or key into the proper “OFF” position. [13]
    • Always turn off and unplug any appliances your generator is powering before turning it off.
    9. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can I plug a six-prong outlet extension into my generator so I can run a few 110-120 small appliances?
    Community Answer
    As long as you do not exceed the power rating of the generator or its specific outlet, expanding the number of devices this way is fine. Keep in mind that increasing the number of devices also increases the chance that an electrical fault could occur, necessitating a protection device of some kind. Many generators include protection, but a power strip with additional protection may be wise. You also need to be sure that the cabling and connectors used are designed to handle the amount of current that would flow when all of the devices are on.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 6 Helpful 28
  • Question
    With a small (3600w) generator, can I fashion an extension cord with double male plugins and simply trip the house main, then plug one end into the generator and the other end into an outlet? Wouldn't that power all the outlets on that circuit even though we would only use a few at any one time?
    Community Answer
    Do not do this! Although this makes logical sense, the issue is that there will be no safe way to disconnect the power in an emergency if (when) someone is being electrocuted. Also, there will be no fail-safe, in the event of an electrical short-circuit, and this will pose a serious fire hazard. Having any "double-male" power cord is dangerous and would be illegal to plug in just about anywhere that has safety rules.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 44 Helpful 74
  • Question
    What happens with the generator when the local power goes back on?
    Community Answer
    Since you are instructed to shut off the main breaker when you use the generator, nothing will happen. If you install a transfer switch it is impossible for the generator and the main electrical power to both feed the system at the same time, if wired correctly.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 11 Helpful 45
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Electrical work is hazardous. While you may want to do the electrical work yourself, contacting a professional is best.
        Thanks
        Helpful 2 Not Helpful 3
      • Improperly installed generators can lead to fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, and even death. Protect yourself, your family, and your community by having your system professionally installed and/or inspected.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Build a Wind Turbine
      How to
      Make a Simple Electric Generator
      Checking an Electric Motor with a Multimeter (Plus, Troubleshooting Tips)
      How to
      Test a Transformer
      How to
      Check an AC Compressor
      How to
      Rewind an Electric Motor
      How to
      Test a Generator
      How to
      Put Oil in an AC Compressor
      How to
      Reverse an Electric Motor
      How to
      Wire a Baldor 3 Phase Motor
      Advertisement

      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about generators, check out our in-depth interview with Daniel Stoescu .

      References

      1. ↑ http://engineering.electrical-equipment.org/electrical-distribution/generator-ratings-back-to-basics-2.html
      2. ↑ https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/carb-regulations-allow-use-back-generators-during-public-safety-power-shutoff
      3. ↑ https://interlockkit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Instructions_K-9410_2012.pdf
      4. ↑ https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-setup-a-generator-to-provide-power-for-your-home/
      5. ↑ https://safeelectricity.org/public-education/tips/generator-safety/
      6. ↑ http://www.aqmd.gov/home/permits/emergency-generators
      7. ↑ https://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/firesafety/bulletins/documents/2009-05ResidentialGeneratorSafety.pdf
      8. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/learn_how_to_safety_install_and_operate_a_generator_during_power_outages
      9. ↑ https://cdn.powerequipment.honda.com/pe/pdf/manuals/00X31Z446010.pdf
      1. ↑ https://cdn.powerequipment.honda.com/pe/pdf/manuals/00X31Z446010.pdf
      2. ↑ https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3286.pdf
      3. ↑ https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3286.pdf
      4. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/learn_how_to_safety_install_and_operate_a_generator_during_power_outages

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Before connecting a portable generator to your house, place the generator as far away from your home as you can to prevent fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Then, plug the generator into the hookup on your house. Before you turn the system on, check that the throttle for the engine is in the correct position and that the engine has enough oil. Once the generator is running, go to your breaker, turn off the switch for the utility main, and turn on the switch for the generator main. Next, flip the breakers on the system that you installed one by one. For information about the installing the generator hookup for your house, read on!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,286,626 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Apr 12, 2017

        "I just started working in the electrical department at my local home improvement store, and questions regarding ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement