Generator Transfer switch connection choices

[daybreak1998]

FYI, I asked both NYSEG and RG&E about this via their websites and I just heard back from NYSEG. Here is what they had to say:


Still waiting to hear back from RG&E (who actually owns the meter).

Aaron Z

Howdy,
I am only talking about the style of meter base. My local utility uses horn style ringless. There are many variations of the meter bases. Yes, UL approved, but you need to use the style and type that works with your utility. Yes, the utility will not move forward until the inspection is OK'd.

[aczlan]

Howdy,
I am only talking about the style of meter base. My local utility uses horn style ringless. There are many variations of the meter bases. Yes, UL approved, but you need to use the style and type that works with your utility. Yes, the utility will not move forward until the inspection is OK'd.

Good point. RG&E requires the same. Looks like GE 200 Amp 4-Space 8-Circuit Outdoor Combination Main Breaker/Ringless Meter Socket Load Center TSMR420CSCU at The Home Depot is the one that I would need (TSMR420CSCU). $108ish locally and takes the same interlock.

Aaron Z

[MNBobcat]

Howdy,
"The interlock"

The interlock makes it so only 1 breaker can be on. The main panel breaker, or the generator breaker. So, you turn off the main 200amp breaker, slide the metal interlock, and now you can turn on the generator breaker.
Attachment 272502 click on the picture to see larger, then click again to zoom in.


Your panel needs to have a interlock kit for it. It usually needs the 2 top right spaces for the generator breakers. If your panel is full, a lot of times you can get half breakers to help make some room.

I like this option a lot because I'm not spending a lot of money on a temporary transfer switch that would be unneeded some day when I get a generator big enough for the whole house. My thought was use one of these and then flip off all of the breakers I don't want to power before I start the generator. The one problem with this plan is this approach doesn't provide a meter that shows how much load I'm putting on the generator. Is there a way to put a meter on the panel that would be active when the the interlock is flipped and the generator in use?

[aczlan]

Is there a way to put a meter on the panel that would be active when the the interlock is flipped and the generator in use?

I am looking at getting something like this: Gen/Tran Remote Metering Kit RMK-15-I RMK-15-F RMK-15-O and mounting it by the inside panel where I can watch the current usage and balance usage between the legs ahead of time.

Aaron Z