How to Hook Up a Backfeed Condition

Backfeeding can be done if wired properly..

Proper generator use allows power to be restored to critical appliances and home lighting, preventing food spoilage and maintaining general safety. Setting up a backfeed condition is an undesirable condition for those that use backup power generators, if wired improperly. Incorrect backfeeding is a scenario that potentially energizes power lines that service technicians expect to be off, creating a dangerous situation.

Things You'll Need

• Generator instruction manual
• Heavy duty male-to-male extension cords

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Instructions

1. Turn off the main power supply at the electrical panel.

2. Consult the instruction manual of the generator to find how many amps of continuous power your generator provides under full load. Call an electrician to help if this information is unavailable.

3. Switch off the main breakers, located near the top of the breaker box. These are larger-value breakers with a bridge bar connecting them together. Again, if you are unsure, have an electrician inspect the layout of the panel.

4. Find a suitable location for the generator. The unit should be shielded from the elements, while allowing full evacuation of the unit's exhaust while in use. Alternately, install a venting system if the structure is enclosed and attached to the main structure.

5. Determine the total amperage you intend to power with the generator. Remember that every 110-volt outlet in the home draws 15 amps of power. Most outlets have two receptacles, making each a total of 30 amps. If you intend to power 220-volt appliances, the generator must have a 240-volt plug, in the form of a pair of 120 volt lines.

6. Double-check that anything that draws electrical power is off in the house. Plug one extension cord into the outlet you have chosen to backfeed into the house. This is usually an outdoor or basement outlet.

7. Turn on the generator. Wait a few minutes for the unit to come to full power. Turn on the single breaker (15/20 amp) switches only.

8. Grab a small light or outlet tester. Go throughout the home, testing each outlet for functionality. Write which ones work and designate this "Circuit A." The ones that are not functional are now "Circuit B."

9. Turn off the generator. Unplug the extension cord used to backfeed. Plug another extension cord from the generator to an outlet on "Circuit B" that remained nonfunctional on the first pass.

10. Plug the first extension cord back in. You now have two cords from the two outlets on the generator backfeeding the home.

Tips & Warnings

• When the generator is running, wait at least five seconds between each breaker activation.

• Always shut off the generator first, prior to removing extension plugs from the unit.

References

• TC Scooters: Backfeed Your Home With a Portable Generator
• Flathead Electric: Standby Generator Information