What comes with an interlock kit?
An interlock kit installation can seem daunting but with the right kit, you can safely connect your portable generator to your home’s electrical panel and pass inspection. This guide will walk you through the generator interlock kit installation process, using a generic interlock kit as an example.
Step-by-Step Installation
It is important to keep safety top of mind. Before you start installing your interlock kit, you must ensure all power to the panel is disconnected before starting. This is crucial to prevent any accidental electrical shocks or fires. Throughout the process, maintaining a safe work environment is crucial.
- Step 1: Safety First: Ensure all power to the panel is disconnected before starting. This is crucial to prevent any accidental electrical shocks or fires.
- Step 2: Prepare the Kit: Begin by separating the front and back plates of your interlock kit. This usually involves unscrewing the binder posts and screws and removing any protective coverings or adhesives on the plates.
- Step 3: Position the Back Plate: Align the back plate with the center seam of your electrical panel. This alignment is critical as it determines the position of the entire kit. Once aligned, secure it temporarily with sticky tape.
- Step 4: Remove the Panel Cover: Carefully remove the panel cover to access the breakers.
- Step 5: Install the Breaker Retainer: Temporarily remove the breakers in the specified slots (usually around the middle of the panel) to install the breaker retainer. This piece helps ensure the interlock kit functions correctly by holding the breakers in place.
- Step 6: Drill Mounting Holes: With the retainer in place, mark and drill through the back of the panel cover at the designated spots to secure the retainer permanently.
- Step 7: Prepare for Grounding: After drilling, use a metal file to scrape around the holes on the back of the panel cover. This ensures proper grounding when you install the screws.
- Step 8: Secure the Plates: Feed the binder screws through the back of the panel, through the back plate holes, and into the front plate slots. Secure everything using the binder posts but ensure not to over-tighten as the kit needs to slide between positions.
- Step 9: Reattach the Panel Cover: With the main and generator breakers in the OFF position, reattach the panel cover.
- Step 10: Test the Kit: Before reconnecting power, test the interlock kit by trying to turn on both breakers. The kit should prevent both from being on at the same time.
- Step 11: Secure the Installation: Apply a drop of Loctite to the binder posts to prevent them from loosening over time.
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Step 12: Label Everything: Clearly label all components for easy identification. This includes labels indicating the positions of the main and generator breakers.
- Step 13: Power Up: Once everything is securely in place and labeled, reconnect power to the panel.
Tips for using an interlock kit
After installation, your interlock kit will allow you to safely connect a portable generator to your home’s electrical system during a power outage. Only one breaker can be on at a time, ensuring that your generator doesn’t back-feed into the grid. This setup not only protects utility workers but also ensures your system complies with local electrical codes.
Remember, if you encounter any difficulties or have concerns about handling electrical systems, it’s best to consult with or hire a qualified electrician. Safety should always be your top priority
