Generator Systems – Standby vs. Portable

Portable Generator Interlock Kit

An interlock kit is a device designed to ensure safe and proper operation when using a portable generator to supply power to your home’s electrical panel. It provides a way to connect your portable generator to your electrical system without the need for a separate transfer switch.

Here’s how an interlock kit works and why it can be beneficial:

1. Safety and Code Compliance:
   • Safety is of utmost importance when using a generator to power your home. An interlock kit is designed to prevent backfeeding, which is a dangerous situation where electricity from your generator flows back into the utility lines, posing a risk to utility workers and neighboring properties. This is a significant concern with portable generators if not connected properly.
   • Interlock kits are designed to meet electrical code requirements for safe generator use and installation. They ensure that the generator can only be connected to your home’s electrical panel in a way that isolates it from the utility lines.
2. Cost-Effective Solution:
   • Compared to whole home standby generators, which require professional installation and can be expensive, an interlock kit provides a more budget-friendly option for partial home power during outages.
   • Installing an interlock kit is generally more straightforward than setting up a transfer switch, making it an attractive choice for DIY enthusiasts who are comfortable with electrical work.
3. Selective Circuit Power:
   • An interlock kit allows you to select specific circuits in your home that you want to power during an outage. These circuits are typically essential items like lights, refrigerator, sump pump, furnace, and a few outlets.
   • By powering only essential circuits, you can optimize the generator’s capacity and ensure that critical appliances are functional during power interruptions.
4. Ease of Installation:
   • Interlock kits are designed to work with your existing electrical panel, and the installation process involves mounting the interlock hardware and rearranging the circuit breakers to establish the necessary interlocking pattern.
   • While it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local electrical codes, the overall installation process is generally more straightforward compared to installing a whole home standby generator.
5. Portability:
   • As an interlock kit works with portable generators, you have the advantage of portability. You can use the same generator for various purposes, whether it’s for backup power at home, camping trips, or other outdoor activities.

However, it’s important to consider that an interlock kit has its limitations. It provides partial home power and requires manual intervention to connect the generator during an outage. This means you’ll need to be present and actively engage the generator to restore power to the selected circuits. Whole home standby generators, on the other hand, offer seamless and automatic power restoration without the need for manual intervention.

In summary, an interlock kit can be a cost-effective and safe solution to provide essential power during outages, especially for those who prioritize budget-friendliness and are comfortable managing partial home power during emergencies.

Whole Home Standby Generators

A standby generator system, also known as a whole home standby generator, is a backup power solution designed to provide uninterrupted electricity to your entire home during a power outage. Unlike portable generators that require manual setup and operation, a standby generator system is permanently installed outside your home and automatically starts when it detects a loss of utility power. Here’s how a standby generator system works and its key features:

1. Automatic Operation:

• The primary advantage of a standby generator is its automatic operation. It is connected directly to your home’s electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch (ATS). When the system detects a disruption in utility power, the ATS triggers the standby generator to start automatically.
• Within seconds of the power outage, the standby generator takes over and begins supplying electricity to your home. Once utility power is restored, the ATS switches the electrical load back to the utility grid and shuts down the generator.

2. Whole Home Power:

• Standby generator systems are designed to provide power to your entire home, including all essential and non-essential circuits. This means you can continue to run all your household appliances, lights, HVAC systems, and other electrical devices during an outage.
• Since standby generators are capable of powering the entire home, they provide a high level of comfort and convenience during extended power interruptions.

3. Fuel Source Options:

• Standby generators are available in various fuel options, such as natural gas, liquid propane (LP), or diesel. The choice of fuel depends on availability in your area, budget, and specific requirements.
• Natural gas and LP generators are popular choices for residential installations as they are typically connected directly to the existing gas line or propane tank, ensuring a continuous fuel supply.

4. Weather-Resistant Enclosure:

• Standby generators are housed in weather-resistant enclosures, usually made of steel or aluminum, to protect them from the elements. This allows the generator to remain operational during harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, or high winds.

5. Quieter Operation:

• Standby generators are designed to operate more quietly than many portable generators. The enclosure and sound-dampening features help reduce noise levels, making them less disruptive to your household and neighbors.

6. Professional Installation and Maintenance:

• Standby generators require professional installation by licensed electricians. The installation process includes proper sizing, connection to the electrical panel, and ensuring compliance with local electrical codes and regulations.
• Regular maintenance by certified technicians is also essential to ensure the standby generator remains in optimal working condition and ready to perform when needed.

Overall, a standby generator system provides a reliable and convenient backup power solution for homeowners who want continuous and automatic electricity supply during power outages. While they may have a higher upfront cost compared to portable generators or interlock kits, standby generators offer a hassle-free and comprehensive backup power solution for your entire home.