Portable generators can provide emergency electricity if the main power source, especially from PLN, goes out. Emergency electric power does not have to turn on all electronic devices in the house, but only the most important ones such as lighting, TV, refrigerator, and so on. Electric stoves, air conditioners, and clothes dryers are among the electronic devices that consume the most electrical power supplied by ordinary portable generators.
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Method 1 of 2: Wiring Setup
Step 1. Determine the essential power tools in the house that you cannot live without
A gasoline-fueled generator with an electrical power of about 3500 W can power the lighting, TV, fan, and refrigerator or freezer. The generator's power capability is usually written on the body, and this means that's the amount of power it can consistently produce for an average of 12 hours on a full tank of fuel.
Step 2. Write down all the electronic devices that will be used, then look at the power requirements of each
For example, a typical microwave oven uses 1500 watts of power, while a single lighting circuit with several CFC bulbs may only need 150 watts. Refrigerators use about 1200 - 1500 watts, but they have initial capacitors that temporarily increase electrical power when a new compressor is turned on. Television power is less than 1000 watts, depending on the type and size. Fans for small rooms use around 500 watts of power, and so on.
Step 3. Choose a cable system
There are several different wiring systems that can be used to connect the generator to the home electrical installation. The two main cabling systems are discussed here. Contact the Public Works Department, Regional Development Planning Agency, or PLN to find out which systems are legally permitted in your area. Do not search the internet for systems that are allowed in your area. Many people are not qualified to give advice on the internet. Meanwhile, regulations in each country, province, and even city or district can be very different.
- Consider an interlocking kit. This cable system is fairly easy to install on its own and is the least expensive option. However, the system is banned in many areas and can be very unsafe. Installation absolutely must be done correctly. Safe installation also requires that you have some extra space in the circuit breaker box or install a new one, which must be done in a professional manner. The rules are very strict, that you must have the equipment kit allowed for a particular circuit breaker box (must be manufactured by the same company).
- Consider using a manual shift switch. These switches are slightly cheaper and still require professional installation. Nonetheless, this is the option that is guaranteed to be legal and also the safest. With this switch, you and others will be protected from being accidentally electrocuted.
Step 4. Install the plug holder
The plug position is outside your home, and will have a hidden male connector (the prong sticking out, not the plug hole). This connector will connect to any panel system you install in your home. Installation should be carried out by a professional, to keep you safe while ensuring the system stays compliant with the latest regulations. If the installation isn't done by a professional, your insurance may not cover your home, the city you live in may incur hefty fines, and you may injure yourself or others (in the hospital, if you're lucky).
Step 5. Keep your family safe
There will be a lot of unsafe advice and instructions on the internet, putting you at risk of injury, electric shock, or a serious house fire. Be sure to always consult a specialist in your city before doing anything that poses a risk to the family. Some of the common things that are forbidden to do are:
- Do not connect your generator directly to the circuit breaker box without a proper shift switch.
- Do not plug the generator into the washer or dryer plug.
Step 6. Make sure your initial setup is inspected
This is especially important if you are not experienced with electrical work. Always make sure that your family stays safe. In the event of a fire, make sure the insurance company does not deny your claim due to incorrect wiring.
Method 2 of 2: Connecting the Generator
Step 1. Place the generator away from your home
Place the generator as far from the house as possible according to the length of the cord. This is done to prevent a fire in your home if something goes wrong with the generator. This includes avoiding toxins from the deadly carbon monoxide gas from the generator exhaust gas. This basic safety measure should not be ignored.
Step 2. Connect your generator to the pre-installed plug
Match the holes at the ends of the generator wires to the prongs of your plugs. Plug it in. You'll likely have to twist the connection to the plug a bit to get it to fit snugly (usually about 15 degrees). This text will be italicized
Step 3. Connect the built-in wires to the generator
Your generator has a built-in cable that is used to connect to the house. Plug in the cord, select the desired voltage (if possible), and do the same on the other end of the cord and the wall outlet.
Step 4. Check the engine
Check if the engine valve is in the correct position and there is sufficient fuel. You may want to preheat the engine with a glow plug, depending on where you live.
Step 5. Start the engine
Start the generator engine according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 6. Turn on the system
Open your circuit breaker box. Turn off utility lines and turn on generator lines.
Step 7. Turn on the circuit breaker
Turn on the circuit breaker on the system you are installing, doing so by turning on all the charges one by one (slowly).
Step 8. Restore utility power
To restore utility power, reverse the order of steps.
