Simple Guide to Installing a Generator Hook-Up | Ask This Old House

Summary by Krater

Heath rounds and homeowner Ramez discuss options for connecting a portable gas-powered generator to a home electrical panel, choosing a transfer switch system, andHeath installs the outdoor power inlet box and the mechanical interlock on the electrical panel.

From the video

Answers: How do you install a generator transfer switch and power inlet box?

• portable gas-powered generator connection
• conventional transfer switch installation
• mechanical interlock switch installation
• outdoor power inlet box mounting
• electrical panel wiring and safety

What it concludes

• Using a conventional transfer switch limits the number of circuits you can run during a power outage.
• A mechanical interlock allows you to turn on everything in your house, but you must monitor your power usage to avoid overloading the generator.
• Mounting the power inlet box with the cord hanging from the bottom protects the connection from weather and stress.