Interlock vs. throwing the main circuit breaker for generator powering a house

[buickanddeere]

I think the issue is more that there is a difference between constant output and peak starting loads. So, you have a breaker that has to handle the start up loads. So what do people do? They put more and more and more stuff on that generator, because after all it has a circuit breaker. Then, fry it! Plus, circuit breakers only come in certain sizes, so they always go to the next highest rating.

In addition most people add up watts and have no clue regarding reactive power. Now they have 4990watts on a 5000W Generator and wonder why the breaker is tripping even through the engine isn't lugging down. All because of that 7000Volt Amp load that they think is 4990 watts.
Far better if the prospective generator purchaser added the amps. Then increase the generator size by at least 150% to have some reserve.

 

[Industrial Toys]

I think you are giving the average joe without power way too much credit.

 

[buickanddeere]

I only use half the transformer. So I don't care what is on the other side, as long as I have 110/220 windings. My generators go across the 220 with no neutral and my transfer swich connects to the same 220 but with a neutral off the centre. When running my little 3.7 generator, it's always fully balanced and I can take the full load off just one side. You naturally have to be mindful of the total load, but not what leg you are on or iif it is balanced. It's a nice system. Also, my 3000 Watt Telecom inverter only puts out 220 so it helps with that as well. I think or feel that having extra inductance in the circuit is a plus but I have nothing to back that up.

I actually have a second manual transfer switch behind the Automatic ASCO but that's a different story. Allows me to switch between a Diesel Generator and lets say the inverter for night time use. Too bad the power never goes out!

I thought I was the only one that used only the 240V from the generator and connected a transformer to obtain 120/120 . I gave up trying to explain load balancing, gave up and use the transformer.

 

[buickanddeere]

I agree with "no shame" ....but in my opinion..... also not necessary, if using fail safe (checklist) procedures.

Why would anyone count on only a checklist ? Where there is an opportunity to use a fail safe instead of fail dangerous ?

 

[Industrial Toys]

Trying to explain it to your family, or others?

Remember, it's important that everybody does things exactly the same!

 

[otlski]

I guess that is why an airplane has two wings. I never thought of that. One falls off, you land on the other.

I like the humor. Sorry I was not clear, but I was addressing the check list comment by Fried, not your airplane sub-thread. I should have quoted.

 

[Industrial Toys]

I know, me and my sub threads. Sorry. Mind you, bi planes had four wings (3 spare). I would feel even safer with that.

 

[fried1765]

Why would anyone count on only a checklist ? Where there is an opportunity to use a fail safe instead of fail dangerous ?

"Why would anyone count on only a checklist?"

LANDING GEAR !!!

 

[buickanddeere]

"Why would anyone count on only a checklist?"

LANDING GEAR !!!

Sometimes the landing gear should be up when touching down .

 

[MossRoad]

"Why would anyone count on only a checklist?"

LANDING GEAR !!!

I've seen about half a dozen guys forget to put the landing gear down when I worked at the airport many years ago. There's usually a nice long white streak down the center of the runway, then turns to silver as the paint wears off of the aluminum as it slides along....