What size generator would I need to operate both or would I operate only one at a time. Also would like to keep Fridge running. Don't "need" the TV in an outage, but a few lights would be great and enough juice to operate radio.
An important consideration when shopping for a generator is how you're going to wire it to your house. If you're looking at back-feeding and using an interlock it's important to buy a generator that is of a "floating neutral" design. Many portable generators have a bonded neutral and can cause problems when hooked up in this way (never knew it, never seen it, but I've heard about it and now I worry about it). For this type of generator (bonded neutral) you need a transfer switch that will break neutral as well as hot leads.
I pulled mine off and ran a longer jumper down to the ground lug on the frame, so if/when I use it as a portable I can just reattach it. Right now it's capped off and out of the way. Generac (my brand) is quite specific that messing with it will void the warranty, and I always worry a little bit about modifying a listed product. If I was putting a system together from scratch I'd follow the rules, but I'm certainly NOT buying another generator or replacing the transfer switch over something so insignificant.From what Ive read bonded are more common than floating in portables. Its assumed most of the time they will be running things on extension cords so you need to the reference to ground for safety. (Speaking of when you do use it with extension cords its a good idea to rig up a small grounding rod - most sets have a lug to wire one to).
The few portables that can float often have a selector switch - Honda's for example do.
You are not out of luck if you have a bonded neutral, you just have to lift it. On my genset, the white neutral lead from the outlet bank was jumpered to the generator shell behind the end cap, I just disconnected it an taped it off. One of these days I intend to put in a selector switch.
Trust me, I didn't think of it. I always cheat from the smartest person I can find.Your solution is simpler and more reliable BT... so simple I didn't think of it. duh. [my set is a Generac also]
Your probably right about avoiding splices in the ground. You want the path to ground to have the absolute lowest resistance possible, so in case of a fault its the path of least resistance for current to flow.
I know squat about electricity. But these portable gennies with bonded grounds, how does that work? I only use them with cords, not into the house wiring.
I just found out about this, so I'm a 30-minute expert:I know squat about electricity. But these portable gennies with bonded grounds, how does that work? I only use them with cords, not into the house wiring.
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