Backfeeding the external mains is unsafe and illegal, because it can potentially electrocute lineworkers, start fires, and overload or damage the generator.
#Siemens generator lockout generator
The generator feeds the home by backfeeding the panel, but the panel cannot backfeed the external mains. In generator mode, the backfeed breaker is on, accepting power from the generator into the panel, and the main breaker is off, isolating the external mains. Backfeeding the generator should never be done, because it serves no purpose and risks damaging the generator. The external mains feeds the panel, but the panel cannot backfeed the generator.
Under normal conditions, the main breaker is on, accepting power from the external mains into the panel, and the backfeed breaker is off, isolating the generator. The interlocked load breaker is repurposed as the "backfeed" breaker, and a generator is connected to it (wired directly or through a power inlet). The kit achieves the same function by adding an external interlock onto an existing breaker panel that allows the main breaker to be turned on or one designated load breaker to be turned on, but not both at the same time. It is a less-expensive alternative to purchasing and installing a dedicated transfer switch. ( January 2013)Ī generator interlock kit (or just interlock kit) is a device designed to allow safe powering of a home by a portable generator during a power outage.
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