generator power transfer switch

[flyhigh00]

Hi,

So I have a generator and I'm running 6 hours on utility and 6 hours on generator. My question is does anyone know if a power switch exist where I could switch between the two without unplugging power cords and then connecting to generator outlet? or Does it even exist?

I have check home depot and lowes; they only have hardwired transfer boxes. Im just looking for outlet transfer switch.

thank you

 

[exploziv]

can you generator be made to auto-start? I mean use it as automatic back-up?
the cheaper models can't do this, but some of them can be made to do it by adding a control module for this option. and some of the more expensive ones already have this feature from the factory.
If you have this option you just wire the generator in and cut the mains with a contactor and timer.

if not, there are sure options to do it, maybe other guys will come it with better replies.
i'd say you need to give more info first, like what Voltage is your mains, how many amps are you running, maybe generator model and so on.

later.edit:
did a bit of research and turns out something like this will do the job:
http://www.eaton.com/Eaton/Products...tial/GeneratorsTransferSwitches/MTS/index.htm
this would need to be switched manually. and you would also need to start the generator before switching.

http://www.eaton.com/Eaton/Products...neratorsTransferSwitches/ATS/index.htm#tabs-2
This would do it automatically when the mains is cut. But, if you don;t have any means to auto-start the generator you would have to start it manually.

Eaton is good brand with lots of experience in product design and safety, I bet you can find cheaper brands if you need that.

Later edit:
I just reread you post and saw you don;t want a hardwired model. Altrough if you would use outlet plugs rated for the amps you are pulling, could still work. Rives would be good to answer this one.

 

[vostok]

I would like to know more, as to why a grower would do this
Don't it make your weed very very expensive???

 

[Guest]

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[rives]

You could pretty easily set up a generator/utility sub-panel that allowed you to simply throw the breakers from one source to the other at the appropriate time. All of the connections would remain in place, you just switch the power to the sub's internal busses from the utility to the generator or vice-versa. You aren't going to find something off the shelf to do this, but it would be a simple adaptation to what is available.

 

[Guest]

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[flyhigh00]

Hey thanks for the help. In my area, cannabis growing still illegal. Electrical tracing is been key to cracking down around here. Even if you tapped before the meter. Within in my calculation, it is 18 cent kwh. Running 6 1k will be easily traced on house electric. Based on my calc, running a diesel generator is even cheaper than electric company given the hassle to get gas.

 

[rives]

It might work out for you, but I'd recheck the numbers. I've used a diesel generator for years for back-up power, and it is a damn expensive way to make electricity.