Running An Entire House On An Amazon Generator
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ก.ค. 2024
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I will walk you through how to select the right generator and inlet connection to power your whole house with a Westinghouse generator I purchased on Amazon. This is something you should plan for and install before you need it as in a large power outage parts are hard to get and you and the whole town will be looking for the same thing.
Moving Circuit Breakers: • How To Replace Or Move...
Installing Generator Inlet and Interlock Kit: • Whole House Power Back...
Chapters
0:00 My Whole House Backup Setup
2:01 How Large Of A Generator To Buy
8:54 How To Connect A Generator To Your Home
12:14 How Much Does A Whole House Backup System Cost
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It’s easier on the generator if you flip the circuits on one by one after the generator is running
I was told the same thing to go one by one
Pro tip - keep a magnetic led flashlight on the breaker box because in a power outage you may not be able to see the breakers.
That is exactly what I do.
@@Kevin-mp5of Believe it or not, there are some of us old farts that don't have our smartphone surgically attached to our hand. :-)
Great tip! Having a magnetic LED flashlight on the breaker box is definitely a smart move during power outages. Speaking of backup power, have you heard about the Segway Portable PowerStation Cube Series? It's a versatile powerhouse with a massive capacity, fast recharging, and comprehensive protections. It could be a great addition to your outdoor gear or home backup power setup! Check it out!
Pro tip - make sure ur phone is charged and u can use the flash light on ur phone.
Years ago I bought a similar portable generator and had a manual transfer switch installed. Critical circuit list includes the well pump, boiler/indirect water heater, sump pump, smoke detectors, fridge, freezer, microwave oven and a few lighting circuits. Just enough to call it "indoor camping" :)
ive been a electrician for 40 years. the system you are showing in my opinion is the best route you can go. everything is much more cost effective. the interloc will never fail. going to the $10k option has more options that can fail. Also when you use the generator for emergency situations it could be years before its needed
@@cliffkinsel6295 in Texas we are needing backup power on a yearly basis.
Verry clear and useful instructions. You did cover everything needed. The only thing that I would do different is to open all of the circuits in the house before turning on the generator. Then turn on the circuits one at a time. This is how the electricians would bring on a large building where I worked. Thanks again.
I have the same exact setup, including the same Westinghouse generator and it powers my house perfectly. My area just got hit with a Cat 4 Typhoon 2 months ago and we were without power for about 3 weeks. This generator setup kept us comfortable during that time. We were easily able to run lights, AC and refrigerator to keep food from spoiling.
If money is tight, this is an excellent option for home backup power.
Great video and the detailed explanation is excellent for those who may be looking for a similar option. 👍🏼
Do you have a 3 ton AC?
Got the same setup generator at my house. 2 years now with several outages, and westinghouse works as i hoped. Perfect. You will be happy with your purchase.
Have you ever tried to use it in the cold? I've seen some reviews that is VERY hard to start in the cold, just asking cause I'm really considering buying this generator soon, I live in south texas
I installed a 50-amp interlock with a 11,500-watt portable generator. I regard my system as an insurance policy. Sure a permanently installed natural gas Generac would be nicer and less bother during an infrequent outage, but at roughly 10-times the total-installed-cost I could not justify it. Nice video.
I have roughly the same set up for the same reasons. During our last hurricane I heard too many stories of people w whole house generators that failed. If my $1,000 generator fails I can easily replace it. A whole house generator w automatic transfer switch would be sweet, but they're too damn expensive and can still fail when you need them.
@@michaeliverson8464 Even if your portable generator fails, you may not find one anywhere remotely close to replace it....but at least you probably have a neighbor with a generator you could run a cord to if you really had to temporarily while you tracked down a replacement generator.
Yep, those whole house backup/standby generators sound great, until, what I hear frequently is when you actually need the dang thing and it doesn't work at all. For what those things cost, it seems people have way too many problems with them.
I don't have a generator at all anymore, don't have enough power outages to justify owning one...and have no use for a generator otherwise.
Based on your videos I installed an Interlock, 50amp breaker, and the 9500kw Westinghouse. It works like a charm! Runs the entire house plus one my central ACs. I have a window AC that can be installed easily for the master bedroom if the power is out for more than a few hours.
I run the generator in a detached shed to keep it out of the weather (had to install an attic fan in the shed to exhaust the carbon monoxide).
Nice setup 👊! Yeah I might need one of those little generator tents.
@@EverydayHomeRepairs I like the idea of the shed to keep it out of my garage and not out in the open. I'm getting all sorts of ideas here. . .
I did the same. However most portable generators have bonded neutrals so you would have to unbond the ground and neutral before hooking into your main service panel. The ground and neutral are both bonded there in your house, and having two places bonded (the other back at the generator) creates objectionable current and is a code violation. If you do unbond your generator just make sure you put that jumper back in if you use it portably as now any ground fault will not have a path back to the source.
@@EverydayHomeRepairs I Recommend to build a Generator Shed.....To Reduce Noise and keep the Rain 🌧️ out
Michael, You might want to do what I did. If your generator has a 1" O.D. for the exhaust tip. Look for a 24mm/0.94" 316 Stainless Steel Thru Hull Exhaust Tip used on boats with those little Diesel Heaters. Also get 1"Inner Diameter Stainless Steel Heater Exhaust Pipe at least 2 feet long if not longer. Depending where you want to place your generator. I have ours on our closed in back porch and exhausted out the wall. That way I can keep the door closed and locked and the generator out of the weather.
Many years ago I bought a very small generator just adequate to run the heating system. Of course, since then there have been no power failures at all and the generator is still in the box.
But you know if you didn’t buy it there would have been a major outage the next week 😂
@@EverydayHomeRepairs Yup...like washing the car to make it rain.
I have bought home insurance for 20 years and never had to make a claim. Same thing.
Knock on wood. Lol. Same here. We put an inlet in for cord and haven't had to use it.
It pay to fire it up every three months and put a load on it so it doesn’t lose charge
I've used the caulking idea to make the numbers more legibl (I sometimes have trouble reading the stamped numbers) At my work, we have our lighting circuits marked the handles of those breakers with a yellow paint pen to make them more legible.
I use tiny little magnets and place them next to the circuit breakers I want to turn in during a backup. Can easily move them around if you change your mind or move breakers at some point.
That's basically what I did. Except I installed a sub panel for a critical load panel. Than all my criticals to that with an interlock. Than used 6awg copper to a CS6365 for a 50 amp plug. Only have a 30 amp 8250 Gen right now, but I'm in the process of ordering a 16k fuel injected portable generator. That should be very efficient fuel wise and easy on the generator for wear and tear.
You should NOT power all critical circuits at the same time. Proper sequence is largest circuit load fist, then next largest circuit load and so on and so forth. Large loads would be freezers, refrigerators, window AC, electric cook top.
@6:30: Given that you work on a live panel, it'd be a good idea to put safety caps on your service lugs.
Thanks, wonderful video. I just bought a Firman HO 7553 generator, which looks quite similar to your Westinghouse. Your info on using the inlet box and then just turning on a certain number of circuits is much easier and cost effective than the transfer box method, which was the only method I previously knew of. Our power has been out for almost two days now and I wish I had it connected to the house, instead of running electrical cords as I am now doing.
The interlock is the absolute best approach other than a full standby generator, but a full standby generator only really works where there is natural gas. We have had two serious long duration power outages where I live (Texas) and the 4 day outage two years ago was brutal. I swore I would never be out of power for days again so I put in an interlock and a 5KW generator. This will not run my AC, but my summer outages then to be short (2-3 hours at most). The last ice storm knocked out power for 3.5 days, and I was one of the only people in the neighborhood that had a generator. I lived a normal life. Since then, 5 of my neighbors have put in interlocks and bought 5KW generators. They may never use them, but the know that if they needed power during a long freeze, they won't have to worry.
You do a great job in explaining complicated issues.
I know I am late to this video. I have a question and some other suggestions.
Q: What do you do with the dirty power for your electronics you run like your laptop, cell phone, etc? I am always worried about this being an issue for a non-inverter type generator. The Inverter type are about double the price and I was not aware of this concern when I got my generator. So far this has not been an issue the one time I used it for about 4 hours.
I have a 9500 Watt (12500 Watt peek) Westinghouse dual fuel generator that included regulator for propane. (50 amp option)
1) Keeping gasoline is an issue but I found during the last hurricane I could still get propane when the gasoline was not available. So have enough gas to get by a few days. Then propane until gas is available again. I live about 50 miles inland so normally it is a couple of days with no access to gas depending on how bad it gets.
2) For running my 3.5 ton AC I added an EasyStart Micro-Air 368 so the startup amps are much less and can add life to my AC unit. So AC from the generator does not overload and trip the circuit breaker when it starts.
3) I have generator tent running cover that is "windproof." I found this on Amazon for about $140 and allows it to run in the rain but covering much of the unit and stakes to hold it down.
4) In my case when a hurricane is coming I will get the generator in place in my back yard enclosed by a solid fence away from the house. This does a couple of things. Dampens the sound for the neighbors a little and also it makes it harder for someone to be notice it and keep it from being stolen. The remote starter makes it so I will not need to go outside to start it and I just have to go to the garage and flip the interlock.
5) Find a fuel pump for a gas can to move the gas much quicker than pouring it in to minimize time out in the elements. I found one that moves 5 gallons of gas in about 2 minutes. Found that on Amazon for about $60 that runs on AA batteries. There are manual pumps for cheaper but I wanted to not have to lift and hold the can while in the wind and/or rain.
SAM's has a UPS system for $120.00 that includes AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation) which takes care of dirty power issues.
Great video, as always! Happy Easter and God bless!
Great Job you really explained very well.I mean some people have no Idea about how electricity works and are scared and they
feel so bad about their self.But you made them relax and feel comfortable with their self and say I can do this.Anyway thanks.Bo.
Really a remote control. Fantastic. Very interesting video. Thank you for sharing
You bet!
I purchased the exact same generator as my backup power source. I purchased the optional automatic ST Switch but don't use it as I'm utilizing the 50 amp outlet and the inlet box with the interlock kit. You can also purchase the automatic ST switch to power appliances from the 30amp outlet. When plugged into the grid, when the power goes out, the Switch sends a signal to the generator to start it. When the grid power is restored, the automatic switch powers down the generator. This is a very nice generator with plenty of power to power my whole house. Thankfully the only major appliances that draw a lot of power are the refrigerator, furnace, microwave and AC unit. Thanks for the tutorial video.
Thanks for the feedback now just need a major power outage 😂
@@EverydayHomeRepairs lol same here. But at least we're both prepared, along with others who've commented.
That is clean AF!!! Beautiful!
Please note, regular generators can damage in a long run your AC compresor!! Regular generators produce electical distortion THD above normal safety for sensitive equipment. Get a mini split AC system 110 volt and inverter generator instead! Inverter generators are 5% THD, while regular generators are above 23%. Make sure to avoid wet conditions, keep the generator above wet surfaces!! Never refuel when engine is running wait until is cool!!
When powering a house, it is important to unbond the generator's neutral from ground to comply with the National Electrical Code.
@user-id1bf1us8w yes it creates objectionable current since there are now two paths back to the source with both being bonded.
Love the tip on caulking the numbers on the panel. I never thought of that!
Paint marker works just as well without the caulk mess. You could even use different colors to mark out different circuits for different times of the day.
@@wildbill23cor a Sharpie marker ...
A wealth of useful information -- thank you.
I got a similar setup installed earlier this year for a total of around $2K. That includes the 50A inlet, generator, 50 ft generator cord, and natural gas tie-in. As long as I can get gasoline, propane, or don't run out of natural gas, I'll have electricity in an outage. I really should get a generator shed.
Nice setup 👊
Which generator are you using
@@SamJones1337 Firman T09275, but Costco usually has Firman generators for a couple hundred bucks less than the manufacturer.
Love all your videos. I have a very similar setup except using the larger 12K Westinghouse with 50A cord. At the beginning I noticed you dragging the generator out on your driveway in the rain. Is this not a problem? I purchased a cover protect the generator from rain. Now I'm wondering if I really needed to. Also, both our generators have a bonded neutral. I'm pretty sure the cord connection you have is sharing a neutral with the panel. And in your panel the neutral is bonded with the ground. So I believe code recommends you unbond the generator neutral making it a floating neutral. Of course if you ever directly connect a load to the generator you will need to reverse that. And finally, I was told it's best practice to turn off all breakers before connecting generator to panel, and then after starting generator turn on individual breakers. Especially important to do this with larger breakers. Again, thanks for all your helpful videos!
I have the Wen 12500 watt gen and manual says do not run it in the rain.
Awesome generator for our camper!
While what you did in the beginning works, its recommended to run the motor first with everything on and then slowly turn everything on with the biggest loads first. This will ensure the generator can keep up and avoid dangerous drops in power.
I’m sorry do you mean start to turn things off after a little bit? The comment didn’t make sense to me.
Thank you for this video. I subscribed to your channel about 3 months ago, and you are a very good communicator and teacher. I've learned lots.
In reference to whole house, stand alone generators like a Generac or Kohler, they are very expensive. I have 2 ea., 200 amp panels and 1 ea., 100 amp sub-panel for my barn so I guess my power needs are greater than most?
I was quoted anywhere from $14-17K last year for a 22 kWh unit from Generac. That's not doable for me. I found this video in looking at other options like a large portable unit that I can roll into my drive like yours. I need to get a clamp meter and determine my needs for critical circuits, but like most it's a deep well, boiler for heat, air handlers for heat, food prep, food storage, communications, and some lights and outlets. I can't imagine my current draw is higher than typical. I contacted my power company and they said my highest peak demand over 18 months was 15KWH. That was in August where I'm sure it was one of those 105 degree days.
I have natural gas and I am wondering if I can find a portable generator that has a temporary hose that I can directly connect to my main gas line for the house? This would be better than handling gasoline every 5 or 6 hours to refuel your generator.
Have you actually used yours for an outage? If so, how did it work out and did you have to refuel?
We don't have outages often, but it seems like when we do they can last all day.
Thanks again for the lessons.
I have the same setup with a Westinghouse 7500 and a transfer switch. Takes care of the living room, kitchen so we have the fridge, stove and microwave covered, one bathroom and the garage so we can open the garage door automatically. Can't do laundry or power the A/C, but this generator has enough power to run a window A/C unit which we can run out the living room to keep it cool most of the year, and 3 months during peak summer it sucks but still livable. I pull it out every month and crack it up just to test, then keep a battery tender on the battery during the winter months so the battery doesn't die and the autostart works.
If you leave a generator near a road at night, when you wake up it won't be there. Last hurricane in Houston (in a nice area) people had a lot of generators stolen out of their back yards with locked fences in the middle of the night.
Thanks for this video. Quite helpful indeed!
Good quality vid, thanks!
Suggestion for a backup circuit... If you have a garage with garage door openers should be backed up. Many garage door openers have a battery backup so it's not much of a load except to recharge the batteries.
I had just done this a few months before the Texas freeze in February 2021 as well as converted my generator to natural gas. My 10 KW generator powered my entire house for two days. It was business as usual other than spotty internet due to not having fiber at the time and low water pressure, nether that had anything to do with the generator. I got a hard start kit for my AC and I can run that too plus power the whole house if I have any outages in warm weather. Just have to make sure if I'm using say the microwave to turn off the coffee maker or toaster. I also have a surge protector with a 3 minute delay on my fridge and deep freezer. The AC has a 5 minute delay. I have a gas dryer, water heater, stove and furnace. I don't turn any breakers off.
I thought I needed the soft start? Why the hard start? Thanks
@@aldairsworld3314 both accomplished the same thing, hard start is cheaper. It has a potential relay and puts a capacitor in line during the start up to give it a boost. A soft start slowly ramps the compressor up.
Great video - you are one of the best! GO 50 AMP everyone
Great presentation. Thanks 😊
Happy to help!
very informative thanks.
Place a laminated "critical circuit list" and how to do each step by step next to the breaker box. Attach a grease pencil to the list with boxes to check each step as it completed.
Teach your wife to do each step by step and work it through in real steps.
Instead of her calling you or the neighbors in a panic mode.
I should know. I've received calls with my wife in a panic mode before even with minor issues.
That when I call my older daughter and have her walk through the steps.
It's the panic mode that kills people.
Or better yet. Teach your family to work the list through.
Have an emergency kit prepared. Complete with flashlight. Tools if needed.
I noticed the Westinghouse generator you have has a bonded neutral. In general, for running your house, you would want a generator with a floating ground.
It's silly to sit that generator out in the rain. There are many types of inexpensive coverings that will help keep the rain/snow off the running generator. I also question the 25-feet thing. As long as it is out in the open and not near any open windows you will be fine. If in doubt, install a CO detector near the window nearest to where you plan to sit the generator. I use the same type of Interlock system for a whole house solution using a Honda 6500W generator. I have bright orange stick-on dots next to the breakers that need to be turned off when running a generator. I also keep a magnetic flashlight stuck to the panel so I can see to throw breakers during the outage. Even with my 6500W unit I can run the whole house except for the central air and water heater. In an emergency I can run the water heater if I turn off a few additional breakers. Don't forget an alarm to tell you when power comes back on. This is very important for daytime power failures when you can't just look out the window and see the neighborhood lights on. :-)
@eosjoe, what do you use to protect your Honda gen from the elements?
@@Kevin-mp5of Really? How do you do that? Do you use a ramp to get your generator into the back of your SUV?
What is the alarm you referenced that tells you when the power is back on?
@@FREIMUZIC I took three square pieces of 1/4-inch plywood and joined them together with two piano hinges. I can then hang this over the handles and it shields the entire front of the generator. My gen sits on a covered patio when in operation so I mainly just need to shield the control panel and air intake from blowing rain and snow.
@@tzavitz It is a Reliance Controls THP108 "Power Back" alarm. It has a sense wire which wraps around one of the main panel feed wires. It is magnetic and you can just stick it to the front of your panel. It uses a 9V battery and you turn it ON when you switch to generator power. When it senses power on the main feed it emits a loud warbling siren that can be heard throughout the house. You can get them at various places including Amazon. It is the perfect solution for determining when power is restored.
Would recommend brand products but the interlock is the best. 34' boats and larger w/Gen sets do this at the service box. The on switch for "GEN" is off and shore current is on. The slide will not let you switch anything unless outside power is off. They slide moves only with one on. Write a draft of procedures and type & print. Place in a page protector and simply note; #1, #2 and so on. It has been 6 or 7 years since we had a power failure of 15 minutes or more. We are not spending Buick money to have a stationary generator hooked to natural gas and no one has propane. We honestly don't have room for all of this and besides an electrician, you will need a gas contractor to calculate max fuel to get pipe size because that changes just like a longer cord or higher load, needs larger wire. Luckily, almost 25 years ago I bought cable to run my 150 Amp welder and by the foot, it was an expense then but today, multiply that times 10+. Yes, now fifty foot later, I can do drive-by mail box welding! Yeh! On and off items like a sump pump also have a current in-rush. This means to start when at room temperature, it may draw 15-20 amps more to start up. This can cause a brown out if at the max and damage some older electronics. So keep things off, use the marker or paper dots all the same color, say green. The fade is nothing and a magic marker will make them new.
Gas generators like a car, need maintenance. Add a fuel stabilizer for long term storage, start and run for 15 minutes while checking voltage. Change the fuel with fresh. Mine runs 16 hrs on full with 1" room of air. Change oil every two years, but some do not use detergent oil. These are long term investments. Read, ask what kind of oil pump the engine used, warranty card, etc.
ASE Master Since 1978. I chain mine to concrete pocket hook that is 12 ton, 10 ton chain and two pad locks inside thru the door. Yes, auto repair shops vent exhaust thru round doors installed in the overhead door. Make a few calls.
I rearranged my breaker box so the ones I turn off are next to the generator breaker, that makes it a very easy changeover.
That is the things that are high draw items I can't run, a large air compressor, the water heater, and I simply don't use the dryer.
We bought a 12K (Duramax 1200) dual-fuel gen (on Gas, 10+K on propane) on Amazon when they had the Prime sale last year (~$1400 regular price)...
That is a great setup and for a great price. Thanks for sharing.
Excellent video and setup!
My only suggestion would be to consider converting the generator to run on natural gas, if you have gas on your property and if your meter location is workable. It's a straightforward conversion on this generator (basically - replace the existing regulator with a larger one). You'll have an endless fuel supply and won't have to worry about old gasoline fouling your carburetor or fuel lines.
Those whole home generators are temping but a little pricy
@@ryanvandy1615 My thoughts as well. I don't have very many power issues where I live, hardly anything over an hour without power, so one of those standby generators is way out of my budget for the use it would ever seem to get....honestly it would do its weekly or monthly test and that would probably be the highlight of its career LOL. Usually the outages we get here in southern Idaho are just enough to need to reset all the clocks in the house and wait for the satellite receiver to initialize LOL.
One of those generators would, however be much more critical to someone that relies on any sort of electrical medical equipment that needs 24/7 power, and you really wouldn't be wanting or be able to drag out a generator, and cord, and all that mess.
I'd love to have one of those standby generators, but yep, they're expensive, and it wouldn't be utilized nearly as often as it would need to be in order to gain anything from it.
Just be aware of the wattage drop from gas to NG.
great video sir
Thanks!
I guess you can also invest on an automatic transfer switch if you happen to do a permanent generator install, that’s the case for bigger buildings.
Always start generator first to warm up first turn breaker on after that never have breaker on when starting generator
I just got a 18kw Generac, auto start in case of a power outage if I’m away out of town and monitored 24/7. Starts up every Monday and runs for 10 minutes without cutting power to the house to run diagnostics to insure operation status…I had a 10kw/9kw dual fuel but got tired of having to maintaining and switching during a storm and worrying about fuel storage of propane and pure gasoline…It worked and did the job but I don’t want or need the hassle….
I have used a generator a lot. I have never put it 20 feet from my house. At one house it was in my attached garage with the back garage door open. In the house I’m in now it goes out side my garage (which is under my house) about six feet under a car port. Sometimes I have used it for several DAYS. I have a 5000 Honda. And u are right if u put it where he put it you better chain it to a telephone pole.
I would go with a transfer switch. That way, the non-critical circuts stay connected to the grid. When the grid comes back up, those non-critical circuits will let you know that power has been restored and you can turn off the generator (saves gas, wear and tear). Otherwise, you have to find a way to let you know the status of grid power. Have a supply of gasoline stored in a separate shed. Rotate that supply into your vehicle to keep fressh gas available. I have two 5 gal containers that I rotate every two months to keep my supply from going stale.
great video
hey nice video! FYI your order of operations is not the best. You should make sure all the breakers are off until after the generator is plugged in and running, then turn the breakers that you would like to use. Most devices and appliances are sensitive to under or over voltage. As the generator ramps up and down on start up and shut down, this can create an imprper supply voltage to the equiptment you are powering. Plus starting the generator under load is not good for the generator. Unless it is a generator inverter then it really doesn't matter but none the less it is good practice to be safe.
This is how i do it.
1. Turn off Main Breaker and all branch circuits
2. Start generator let it warm up while doing the next steps (make sure it is within your cords reach)
3. Roll out your cord then plug female side in first to back feed plug, then male end to the generator side
4. Go to the electrical panel. turn on the generator back feed breaker.
5. One by one turn on critical circuits starting with the largest loads first. (if you are familiar with what the circuits draw) The size of the breakers don't reflect the actual load of each circuit.
6. Reverse this process when grid power is restored.
7. Be safe out there
Perfectly said
I believe that generator has a bonded neutral. If you're hooking it to the house, you need to unbond it. You can only have one bonded neutral, and that's at the main disconnect panel.
Yes I’m concerned that people don’t know this. It would create objectionable current in a ground fault situation
Yes, this is exactly what I was thinking as I watched the video. Right on the generator plate it states that the neutral is bonded to the frame. Using a generator in this fashion, where it is a non-separately derived system, requires the removal of the neutral/frame bond (floating neutral), and a ground rod for the generator frame. Of course, millions of people use a generator in this fashion without issue, but it is nevertheless an unsafe practice, as you create an unsafe condition during a fault. Generator manufacturers should make it more easy to bond/unbond the neutral from the frame. Note: If you have a transfer switch that interrupts the neutral as well as the phase connections to utility, then the generator SHOULD have its neutral bonded to the frame, this being a separately derived system.
@@sigcrazy7 I agree with everything you say except for the ground rod. If you're plugging it into the house, the entire system is grounded with a ground rod at the panel.
@@whirlyblades Yes, I get that. I believe it’s an OSHA requirement to drive a rod on a separately derived system. Maybe NEC as well. It’s a moot point anyway, since no homeowner does so. I’d bet that 99% of DIY portable generators powering houses have their frame bonded. People figure if it works, carry on.
@@sigcrazy7the generator is grounded through the 4 prong cord, which connects to the houses grounding rod. Using a separate grounding rod can actually be dangerous in some rare instances. Don’t ground the generator just use the 4 prong cord- safe!
Hello:
I see in this video you placed your Westinghouse generator outside in the rain. I understand that a generator needs to be in some type of shelter.
A battery back up for the sump pump is a nice choice
I use a 4000W dual fuel generator/inverter that will power my entire 2000 sq ft house with the exception of the 5 ton AC unit. as well as the Microwave and dishwasher. All my cooking and house heating is gas so no issues there at all. The fridge and all lighting and electronics run perfectly. I obviously have my main breaker off to prevent backfeeding into the grid and my gen-inverter is plugged into my unused 240v dryer receptacle in th garage.
Thanks
It might be better to start the generator and let it stabilize before you turn on any of the breakers. Then turn the breakers on one at a time.
I was always told (by master electrician boss), to start the genset first, let it stabilize for a minute, then start adding loads. Also, avoid stopping the genset with a load attached.
Excellent point
Great video. No nonsense, just useful info from somebody that knows what they are talking about
Great idea BLUETTI AC500 + B300S | Home 6 Battery Backup Whole power house 25,8 ( KWH
Yeah, I am been looking at Bluetti and thinking about comparing to the EcoFlow.
How are ppl not worried of these getting stolen from your driveway? Ppl literally steal Amazon packages 😂
Right? I just leave mine in the garage with the garage door open 1/4 of the way. All the way in the driveway seems extreme.
I was thinking the same. You gonna need to chain it to something
I am in the early stages of planning to do this. My biggest concern is whether I should go with an inverter generator. I am concerned about the quality of the power being supplied to run modern day appliances and electronics. I know inverters are more expensive.
Thanks for a great video, Scott!
Question: When calculating the power you need to run your essential circuits, how did you factor in surge / start-up power consumption? Perhaps you did and I missed it. Thanks!
Running a generator in the rain. Brave man
I thought that was a no-no…
I was wondering about that too
Did it develop any rust from rain exposure?
Really important people realize that most portable generators have bonded neutrals. So by hooking into your main service panel, where the neutral and ground are also bonded, you’ve now created two paths back to the source (objectionable current) and that’s a code violation. You’d either have to unbond the generator when you hook into your home, or add a transfer switch that isn’t bonded. If you take the jumper out that bonds your generator, just realize that if you go to use it portable it now has no path back to the source in a ground fault situation. That’s why portable generators are usually bonded, they are assumed to be used in the field apart from a main panel.
Edit: I went with the same setup as you with a portable and an interlock kit. I just pulled the jumper and made sure to keep it with the generator in case I need to use it on the go.
I'm glad someone else said this besides me. Mine has a floating neutral so, if I ever run it as a standalone, I'm gonna need a jumper, which I don't have. But I don't really see where I'd need it that way, but you never know.
@@whirlyblades same here. I’ve never really had need for a generator on the go but doing it this way saves a lot of money over a permanent install. I just hope people do the research on properly doing this
I fashioned a bonding jumper using a 240 volt 30 amp plug with the neutral and ground prongs jumpered, which I keep tethered to the Gen. The retores the generator's neutral-to-ground bonding. If I ever do run the generator stand alone I'll just be using its 120 volt receptacles anyway. Note: Jumpering at the 120 volt receptacle will likely trip its built-in GFCI.
@josephknapick5307 Thanks for the tip. I just made a 30 amp 240v plug myslef. Good call!!
Tip, dont run your generator directly in the rain like that it can damage electrical components try to cover it from the elements while still allowing it to "breathe" in all directions.
We used to have Westinghouse microwave oven in the 90s 😅
I Really Want to SEE you do Generator modification in Reducing Noise Level....🤣👍😅
Hi, my suggestion is I would look at a dome tent that is designed for the Generator. I notice it is raining in the video and water and electric is never good to mix.
Hope your neighbors don't mind the noise. LOL!!! I have a similar one for daytime and a quiet one for night. We suffer for quite constant and extended power outages. Longest one? 4 months! 24/7 running on generators.
Our area just had a pretty large power outage and we used a combination of the generator to charge a EcoFlow Delta Pro and then use that battery (which doesn't produce noise). That resulted in only needing to run the generator about 2 hours per day. 👍
That caulk idea is priceless. Can't describe how frustrating it is to try to make out those stamped numbers.
Super handy 👍
Awesome job explaining things for a layman
As a former tweaker we just put our gen on the back porch. But seriously a good vid with good info.
Pretty sure that generator is NOT supposed to be out in the rain but perhaps it is. I bought the bigger (13,500) Westinghouse version that specifically calls out not exposing to rain or snow. I was initially bummed to learn that but decided to locate it inside an old unused concrete storm shelter a few steps out our back door. That will protect from the elements as well as deaden the sound while it is running.
My manual says do not run in the rain. Which is what I've always believed. I wonder if it happened to be raining when he wanted to do the video.
Scott, great video - I follow your channel for many reasons. Right now I’m looking to install an interlock for my generator set up. I have an Eaton SP 200 amp but can’t seem to find a kit that fits it? It’s 1”-3/8” between the main and where I would put the DP 30 Amp breaker. any ideas? thanks in advance. Also I invested in quality gas containers with sealing handles, not the plastics sort.
“Well labeled circuits…” *laughs in old house* Today I learned the circuit labeled “furnace” does not control power to the the furnace in my house. Who knew? I’m just glad I checked for voltage before working on it!
Amperes not amperage * Power failure, not outage * 1 amp. More than 1 = amps. Plural. * Great video. I purchased Wago lever nuts from your store in The Amazon.
3.4.23 Scott, great video and thanks for making it. I have the Westinghouse dual fuel 9500df running watts and 12500 peak watts. It has the 50amp plug and a 30amp plug. I have installed a 50amp box.
This is my question: If you are running electronics inside the house what would the THD (total harmonic distortion) be and is it going to cause any damage?
I’m no pro but I think for most electronics you would want THD under 5% and Westinghouse claims 3%, so if that holds true should be good.
Start the generator first, then add the loads. Read the generator manual.
Have same set up with 50 amp hook up.
I've been looking online at the same Westinghouse generator that you have it's large enough to run my home the only problem is all of the bad reviews on that generator. Some customers have stated that right out of the box their generator would not start and some had said that when it did start it ran for a few minutes and shut off and would not restart. And some have said customer service is a nightmare when trying to return their Westinghouse generator. So I'm a little weary about spending a lot of money on junk.
I have the Westinghouse as well if you were standing here I would kiss you I went through a thousand different videos trying to find out whether or not I could power my house even though the 30 amp breaker would have to be on only one side and it would appear based off what you've done in the first part of this video that I can so now thank you I am going to go wire up my stuff I guess first I'm going to figure out how to wire up a 50 amp though
In a perfect world you'd want a dedicated standby generator that is hardwired, all you gotta do is wait for the generator to fire up after it detects an outage, then either flip the transfer switch, or they make automated systems where you do nothing but wait for the generator to fire up and all is well....those systems are expensive, but if you have a lot of outages it might be the best method, and more trouble free and you don't have to lug around a generator. Something else to consider, if anyone in your house is on any sort of electrical medical equipment, you'd certainly want an extremely quick power restoration, and probably don't want to be dragging out a generator, running a cord, etc.
I live in southern Idaho, we don't get very many outages, and the ones we do get are typically just enough to have to reset the clocks....very rare to have an outage more than an hour...so it really doesn't pay to have a $20k+ generator sitting around...would be nice sometimes, but not often enough to justify that kind of cost.
Quick tip! You should not start or stop a generator if it is under load, meaning if it is running anything.
Thanks for calling that out and thanks for the feedback.
My push button start 3.5KW 120v Pure Sign Wave Inverter Gas Generator WILL cold start under full load; and shut down under full load.... Done it dozens of times. My Solar Battery driven 3.5KW PSW Inverter will too. Can switch from Grid to Solar Inverter fast enough my big PC's never skip a beat. Make sure you but a Pure Sign Wave Inverter Generator. I don't even touch my Main Panel.
@dwmcever It is not the generator that can be harmed it is electric motors and appliances that can be harmed. You always should cut power to the house using the generator's main breaker (unless you have a transfer switch) and then stop the generator. Likewise, start the generator with the breaker off and then, once it is up to speed, send power to the house.
Our generator sits just outside the garage door. The ground cable the electrician wired in is only about 1ft. That has to be connected, along with a plug, for my generator to work. I don't know anything about this so I have a step-by-step on:
1. How to turn generator on
2. How to turn generator off
It's a pain and alot of work. My recommendation is to pay the extra $1500 to have it hard wired so you never have to touch it. Just set & forget. We also were told we had to buy something to cover the generator because it, or anything plugged in (power cable), shouldn't get wet. I notice that yours was wet. Can you confirm if the generator and plugs needs to be completely covered?
I purchased a duromax 12000 W generator and a 50 amp inlet box and breaker I tested it out it it runs the whole house
But for how long?
Is it still working?
I put glow in the dark dots on my circuits for the generator loads
Hi Scott, is it important to purchase an INVERTER generator vs. a regular generator??
Nice! what do you do when it’s raining outside and your power goes out.
The one thing on using a large wattage/amp generator is the size of the engine to drive it. If running gasoline, and at high load, that's a *lot* of gasoline. Assumption is not only you have no power, but neither does anybody else closeby. Gas stations nearby cant pump and what kind of container are you going to put all that gasoline in? A 5 gallon container isn't going to get you much run time, especially under load... If you have natural gas, maybe look for a dual fuel generator. Hauling gasoline in the back of you car stinks - back and forth to wherever you find a working gas station. Or, go small, like a 2000-2500 watt inverter type. and conserve or alternate what you choose to run and when. I had a 5500 watt open frame generator and at 60-70% load, 7 gal of gas ran about 7-8 hours. Be thoughtful in what you spend your money on... I survived no AC as a kid just fine.
Okay, so you have a gasoline powered generator. How much gasoline do you have on hand to run the generator? In a power outage, it's possible that you won't be able to get gasoline because it takes electricity to run a gasoline station. You stated that you have a gas furnace, shouldn't you be using a tri fuel generator so you can utilize your natural gas supply?
Yes, I should have bought a tri-fuel generator yesterday, but I needed one quick and Lowes only had the dual-fuel.
Americans depending on SHY NA generators LOL , I worked at a major MFG and we would get shipments DIRECTLY from >>> ONE
This video's premise is powering your house in case of natural disaster.
That said, given the lessons we learned from Hurricane Katrina and the various riots from that, you should also discuss how to *secure* your critical, valuable, life-supporting generator. Consider tethering it to a pole or your car with a chain or heavy rope so it does not get stolen by the desperate and unprepared.
Heavy rope? Seriously?
You do NOT need to have the generator 20ft from the house. That is overkill and likely detrimental to the power delivery due to a too long genset cord.