What Is a Generator Interlock Kit and Why You Need One
Homeowners consistently seek safe, reliable backup power for their homes. What they often don’t know is how to compare the options that best fit their needs and electrical systems. Power outages occur year-round, so it’s crucial to have the right equipment. At EZ Generator Switch, we want homeowners to be knowledgeable about backup power options, from interlock kits to generator switches. Here is all you need to know about a generator interlock system from a trusted backup power specialist.
What Is a Generator Interlock Kit?
A generator interlock kit is a mechanical device installed on your existing electrical panel that prevents the generator feed breaker and main breaker from being energized simultaneously. It’s a safety precaution that prevents your generator from backfeeding power into the primary utility grid. Your generator should only power your home and appliances. If it backfeeds, it could seriously injure utility workers or damage equipment.
How Does a Generator Interlock Kit Work?
When you lose power, you start your portable generator and plug it into a dedicated outdoor inlet. Inside your electrical panel, the interlock mechanism requires you to shut off the main breaker before turning on the generator feed breaker.
This simple but effective process does the following:
- Prevents utility power and generator power from mixing
- Allows selected circuits to receive generator power
- Keeps your home compliant with electrical safety standards
Once power is restored, the process is reversed. Turn off the generator breaker, disconnect the generator, then turn the main breaker back on; power should resume.
Generator Interlock Kit Compared to a Generator Switch
Homeowners often ask what the difference is between a generator interlock kit and a generator switch. Both options are safe when installed correctly, but serve slightly different purposes.
A generator transfer switch typically powers a limited number of preselected circuits, available in either manual (MTS) or automatic (ATS). Either transfer switch is ideal for homeowners who want to power essential devices safely. Depending on size, it could be an easy do-it-yourself project, or you can have it installed by a licensed electrician.
On the other hand, a generator interlock kit provides greater flexibility in what can be powered. You can choose which circuits to power by manually switching breakers. It makes it easy to prioritize different needs depending on the situation.
Is it Right for Your Home?
A generator interlock kit is ideal for your home if you:
- Own a portable generator
- Want an affordable backup power solution
- Prefer flexibility in powering household circuits
- Have space in your electrical panel for a generator breaker
However, installing an interlock kit is not always a DIY project. Interlock kits must be matched to your specific panel model and installed correctly to ensure safety and compliance.
Benefits of a Generator Interlock Kit
There are many benefits for homeowners who rely on portable generators during power outages.
Improved Safety
Backfeeding electricity into the grid is extremely dangerous. An interlock kit helps prevent backfeeding, protecting utility workers, your neighbors, and your home. It is also safer than running multiple extension cords from your generator to individual appliances.
Affordable Backup Power
Compared to whole-home generators, interlock kits are a budget-friendly alternative that still provide reliable power during outages. Installation by a licensed electrician may be costly, but it can add to your home’s value over time.
Flexible Power Control
You aren’t limited to a few circuits; however, you are limited to the output of the generator system. You can decide which appliances or systems matter the most. If you need multiple appliances to meet your needs, an interlock system might be a good fit.
Code Compliance
When properly installed by a licensed electrician, a generator interlock kit meets electrical code requirements. It also helps avoid unsafe, illegal generator hookups.
Compatible with EZ Generator Switch
The interlock kit can be used alongside the EZ Generator Switch to help ensure your home is powered as safely as possible. Hook up your larger primary generator to the interlock system and/or power just an essential circuit with a portable, smaller, more efficient generator or power station, such as a battery inverter.
Final Thoughts
Generator interlock kits are one of several ways homeowners can safely connect a portable generator during a power outage. Understanding how they work and comparing them to other options can help you choose the best solution for your home.
At EZ Generator Switch, our goal is to educate homeowners about safe backup power solutions and help them move forward with confidence. If you decide an EZ Generator Switch is the right fit for your home, our customer support team is here to answer any questions you may have before installing.