Importance of Interlocks for Portable Generators

Posted by Michael on November 4th, 2017

We know as how important generator is for us in case of natural disaster. Every year, a lot of natural disasters and calamities take place in various parts of the world. There may be a hurricane, flood, earthquake and many other situations which left you out of the power supply. In that case, generators are important medium for transferring electrical power in your electrical components. The first and basic thing that you need to run any portable generator is adequate storage and supply of its fuel. 

Another important thing for proper allocation and supply of electricity in household item is to check its interlocking system. Interlock is the mechanism that connects or coordinate the function of different components. As we do not need to use it on a regular basis. We rarely used at once or twice in a year. So, it's very important to check the supply system of a generator. Now just have a deep look at as why interlocking is very  important. 

If you plug-in your portable generator directly into an electrical outlet, then the whole flow of electricity will be from this machine to home’s wiring. This will increase the voltage in transformer and distribution system. There will be a higher risk of fatal shock hazards to anyone, who comes in contact with a sagging line. 

Wrong or broken interlocking can also lead to damage of this equipment. It could burn out if the power is restored. All the linemen use a grounded system with it and after that, they start working with a power line. But if this machine is back feeding on that ground, then it can damage it. 

So, here we need interlock installation. Interlock acts as the manual transfer switch so that both the utility breaker and generator breaker can not be turned on at the same time. You don’t require to run an extension cord in the home. So, it will eliminate the fear and tripping hazards. 

However, it’s advisable not to connect this equipment directly to your main electrical panel or into a regular household outlet. This could put you and life of  your family in danger. You should have the installation work finished by a certified and licensed electrician. 

You should always operate it outside of your home as it exhale carbon-di-oxide. So, you should keep it outside of your home. 

It is a good and important device, but you should also learn to maintain it properly. You should not ignore any issue or problem in its working. Many homeowners depend upon it for reliable power backup as it is very easy to operate them. But you should go through by reading guide before using a generator. 

Conclusion: 

That was all about it. Interlocking system is very important for you. It's also made your generator safe and in working condition. At the same time, it also assure you against shock hazards. You should also never overload it as overloading can seriously damage valuable appliance and electronics. 

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