Home generator hook-up

Q: How can I hook up an electrical generator to my house wiring? I enjoyed your article on back-up home generators, and I’d like a set-up that doesn’t require the use of extension cords. Are there off-the-shelf connector options or do we need an electrician to do the work?

A: There are two ways to handle the home generator issue. As you mentioned, you can simply use extension cords for appliances that can be plugged in, or you can interconnect a generator with your electrical panel and existing wiring. This second option is certainly more convenient and useful, but there is a catch. The electrical safety code requires that any interconnection include switching hardware that allows either the generator to be supplying energy to your home or the grid, never both at the same time. This is a safety feature that ensures electricity from your generator doesn't get fed back in to the grid causing danger to line workers. Some larger back-up generator packages come with this kind of interconnection hardware, though installation by an electrician is certainly required. Generators of this sort put out both 120 volts for outlets and wiring, plus 240 volts to handle larger appliances.