TK Tips

Transfer Switch is Key!

For over 35 years I have installed generator systems and can tell you that the best way to use a portable generator is with a Power Transfer Switch. These indoor surface mounted transfer switches are designed for fast installation in residential applications. The 18-inch flexible conduit whip attaches to the load center and all wires are clearly marked. Select the circuits needed in an emergency and connect them to the Transfer Switch wire leads.

Transfer Switches feature a rugged powder-coated steel cabinet with resettable branch rated circuit breakers and non-defeatable (break-before-make) double-throw switches. Some models feature a wattmeter with accuracy of ± 3% throughout the entire range.

I then run a heavy 30 amp line to the inlet box near the outdoor location where your portable generator will be located when in use. This power inlet box is rain-tight and has a twist lock male adapter that your portable generator cord plugs into. So all you have to do when power goes out is:

  • Shut off your main breaker.
  • Pull out your portable generator.
  • Fill with fuel and plug in 30amp cord from generator to power inlet plug.
  • Start generator using the electric starter or pull cord..
  • Turn Transfer Switch Circuits you want to use from house power to generator power on at a time so you don’t overload the generator.
  • Sip tea and enjoy power.
  • When utility power returns, turn off Transfer switch circuits.
  • Shut down and unplug generator.
  • Turn on your main breaker. You are once again on the grid.

Remember you should hire a qualified Licensed Electrician to install these power systems. They must be installed to the National Electrical Code (NEC) as well as all state and local ordinances.

Well, I hope this article helps all of you with generator safety. If you have any other questions about Generators or electrical related issues feel free to email me tklydenelectric@hotmail.com and I will be happy to answer them.

If you live in MA I also will make house visits and free quotations for installations of these systems.

Thank you for reading.

How Often Should a Preventive Maintenance Review be Done on an Electrical Panel?

TK Tips When was the last time you had your electrical panel serviced? Service Tip! – You should have your homes panel inspected on a yearly basis for loose connections.  Keep panel doors and box covers closed.  Dust and moisture are two of the biggest enemies of electrical devices. Does your panel look like this? How…

Read More about How Often Should a Preventive Maintenance Review be Done on an Electrical Panel?

Knob and Tube Wiring vs. Insurance Companies

TK Tips Knob – and – tube wiring was the accepted method of electrical wiring for buildings constructed in North America from 1880 until 1950. This system of wiring is considered obsolete and a safety hazard. How Knob and Tube Works Knob and Tube wiring consists of insulated copper conductors passing through lumber framing drilled…

Read More about Knob and Tube Wiring vs. Insurance Companies

Ice Storm and Blizzard Outage!

TK Tips Ice storms and blizzards can snap power lines just as easily as any hurricane. Heavy ice can accumulate causing overweight branches to come crashing down on power lines even days after a storm, spawning prolonged power outages during the darkest days of the year.2008 New England Ice Storm You don’t have to look…

Read More about Ice Storm and Blizzard Outage!

Stores without Generators

TK Tips During a blizzard blackout, you can’t just jump into your car and rent a backup generator. Heck you can’t find a generator for weeks. After 4 days without road access I was finally able to drive to Home “Sold Out” Depot. I said to the clerk “ I need a Generator ” he…

Read More about Stores without Generators

Sizzling Idea

TK Tips If you purchase a portable generator, make sure you purchase a Manual Transfer Switch too. Why? Most furnaces don’t have electrical outlets. You can’t plug your generator into your furnace, electric oven, hot water tank, or light fixtures. Also, wiring your generator wrong can injure or even kill someone we love or a…

Read More about Sizzling Idea

Deep Freeze Warning

TK Tips If you’re traveling or work away from home often (like a vacation home in the mountains or a office in the city), buy a simple Temperature Alarm that will call you if the power goes out or THP201P_500the inside temperature drops significantly. We were rightfully concerned about the water pipes freezing. Water expands…

Read More about Deep Freeze Warning

Generator Safety

TK Tips Downed utility lines, power company blackouts, heavy snowfall or Summer thunderstorms could all lead to temporary power outages – some lasting for days, or even weeks. December 2008 we who were residing in the Northeast experienced a devastating Ice Storm right before celebrating the Christmas Holiday. Freezing rain downed trees and power lines…

Read More about Generator Safety

Extension Cords Can Pack a Punch.

TK Tips If plugging in extension cords inspect each cord for any damage like cuts, cracks or broken grounds (don’t use non grounded cords). Ungrounded damaged cords can lead to electrocution and even death. Large appliances require a heavy duty 20-amp outdoor extension cord plugged directly into the 20-amp outlet on your portable generator. Running…

Read More about Extension Cords Can Pack a Punch.

16 Ways To Lower Your Heating And Electric Bills

TK Tips By: Timothy K. Lyden Jr. Cost of heating oil, natural gas and fuel in general keep steadily rising, but there are many things you can do to cut your costs this winter. As a homeowner I’m continuously trying to save on home heating and electric bills. It seems that the cost each year…

Read More about 16 Ways To Lower Your Heating And Electric Bills

Plugging Leaks

TK Tips The low cost of saving. The small things can take some time but one by one you can tackle them. First, have you ever notice the cold breeze across the living room floor? That’s the small leaks or gaps around the doors, windows and electrical outlets on outside walls. To find the leaks…

Read More about Plugging Leaks

Thinking Big

TK Tips The much larger cost fixes. What else can you do now or in the future? Replace appliances, heating units, light fixtures and bulbs with high-efficiency replacements. Unfortunately, it costs money to save money. But it’s good to keep in the back of your mind that many experts recommend buying high-efficiency windows and appliances…

Read More about Thinking Big

Request Free Quote

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Best Electrician Worcester, MA

Check for Local Outages