Q&A for How to Connect a Portable Generator to a House

Return to Full Article

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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Question
    I was surprised to read that you flip off the main breaker after plugging in and turning on the generator. Is this correct? Wouldn't you want to turn the breaker off before turning the generator on?
    Community Answer
    By design, the switch over breaker connected to the generator (and - importantly - in the Off position) will not allow mains power to flow towards the generator circuit from the mains. Thus, the mains switch can be energized or not, it makes no difference. Importantly: Only switch the generator breaker on After the mains breaker has been switched off and switch the generator breaker off Before energizing the mains breaker.
  • Question
    I have a mobile home and want temp power in it. Can I just plug the main wire into the generator?
    Community Answer
    As long as your supply from the MH is able to be unplugged from the Utility Company grid and rerouted to your generator, yes.
  • Question
    Do I plug the cord from my switch to my generator into the 240 outlet or 120 outlet on the generator?
    Community Answer
    Plug into the 240. Assuming you have the circuitry in your breaker box set up correctly, this will energize both sides.
  • Question
    How do I use power in the house without a transfer device? Do I just run a cord from each power outlet on the generator?
    Upnorth Here
    Top Answerer
    Yes, you may run suitable extension cords for temporarily connecting your portable generator to a specific appliance in the house, such as a refrigerator or a floor lamp.
  • Question
    During a power outage can I shut the off breaker at the meter then plug a generator into an outlet?
    Alan Mason
    Community Answer
    You could, but it is not safe. Although this makes logical sense, the issue is that there will be no safe way to disconnect the power in an emergency if 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.
  • Question
    Can I back feed my generator power from a sub panel after turning the main breaker off and then turn on the breakers to power my essentials?
    Community Answer
    The only problem with this is that there is no sure way to be certain the main breaker is off before the generator power is on. A suitable transfer switch can solve this issue. In that case, then yes, with the generator powering the house, you can select which circuits receive power by using the main panel circuit breakers.
  • Question
    How do I know when the regular power has been restored? Do I have to completely shut down the generator and switch over to the house power periodically to check for power?
    Community Answer
    If you have called the utility company to report the power outage, they will call back when power is restored.
  • Question
    Can I connect a portable generator to the bottom of a meter base to get power to the house?
    Upnorth Here
    Top Answerer
    Yes, if you first install a proper transfer switch at the meter base. This will allow you to a place to connect the power from the generator while simultaneously disconnecting the main supply from the meter.
  • Question
    Can I plug a generator in a dryer outlet?
    Community Answer
    Absolutely not! This is quite dangerous.
  • Question
    Can I shut off the main, construct a plug for the generator, and hook the leads directly to the power buses after identifying the hots?
    Upnorth Here
    Top Answerer
    You can't do this legally. There are safety rules about hooking "directly" to the power bus from a generator.
  • Question
    Can two smaller generators be plugged into the house at the same time?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Often an identical model can be run in parallel to give twice the power. A bespoke cable would be required.
  • Question
    Do I need a main box surge protector if I have had an electrician install a transfer switch?
    Community Answer
    Always a good idea to install a house surge protection at the box as a first line of defense.
  • Question
    Can I connect my portable generator directly to appliances using an extension cord?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can, provided the manual says this is okay. You must locate the portable generator safely outside and use one for each appliance you are powering.
  • Question
    During a power outage that may last an extended period of time, can I create a cable to plug into my breaker box to supply power after tripping my main breaker? Would I use 120 or 240 power supply?
    Community Answer
    You would need an electrician to determine this. There is a certain way to hook up 240 and it will need a special breaker for 220 to match your breaker panel.
  • Question
    What is wrong with connecting a generator directly to the main panel using a circuit breaker with an approved interlock?
    Community Answer
    Nothing, as long as you use a proper interlock designed for your specific breaker box.
  • Question
    I live in a mobile home behind my son's house, upfront. I am wired for electricity from my son's house. I have my own breaker box. Can I install a generator and transfer switch for power outages?
    Savannah Vold
    Community Answer
    The best way to find out would be to contact your local Department of Labor and Industries, Planning Department, or Power Company to learn whether or not this is legal in your area. They may also provide personalized advice on whether this is possible/how best it can be done. That way, you get the safest, legal answer.
  • Question
    My generator specifically says do not use a transfer switch. Any ideas?
    Savannah Vold
    Community Answer
    Consult your generator's manual or contact the company that makes it directly to learn what wiring method is preferred for your specific make and model. That way, you can rest easy knowing you've selected the safest option.
  • Question
    What appliances and lighting should I connect to my transfer switch?
    Savannah Vold
    Community Answer
    Appliances and lighting should only be connected to your transfer switch or generator once the generator is up and running. Once that's been done, determine which appliances you can't live without, like the fridge, fans, etc., and check their wattage. If the total amount is in the capacity of power the generator can supply, you're all set to go.
Ask a Question

      Return to Full Article