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The Daring Dufas[_8_] The Daring Dufas[_8_] is offline
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Default What size wiring for Central A/C compressor?

On 3/8/2013 8:30 AM, Mikepier wrote:
On Mar 8, 9:09 am, "
wrote:
On Mar 8, 8:51 am, Mikepier wrote:





Ok ,guys. Now something just came up . I know we are up to 51 posts
for this thread already, and I was not sure whether to continue this
one, or start a new one, but anyway:


My friend had an idea if he had gotten a generator one day, he can
utilize the A/C disconnect panel outside to backfeed into the main
panel. Of course he would shut off the main breaker and pull the A/C
disconnect when he did this.


I can put an outdoor twistlock outlet next to the A/C disconnect
panel, and put a short nipple between them an connect the wiring.


But I cannot do this with the existing 10 guage wire since it is the
old 10/2 stuff with a small ground on it. I would need to run an 8/3
with gnd ( 2 phases plus neutral).


I know this is not the right way to backfeed a panel, but regardless,
does it make sense now to run the 8/3 ?


If you know it's not the right way, then why are you
proposing to do it? Why take an AC circuit that is 100% legal
nd safe as it is and turn it into something to be used as a dangerous
code violation? If he wants a
generator connection, install an inlet outside and run
it to a proper interlock device installed on the main panel.
If the panel maker doesn't have one, then try:

http://www.interlockkit.com/- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


That is an excellent invention. I did not even know those interlocks
existed. A little pricey at $150, but I'll definately consider it. The
only issue is finding space in the main panel for an extra double pole
breaker for the generator, but I can use some twins here and there on
lighting circuits to to free it up.


The interlock kit trader4 showed you is the least expensive "safe" way
to do it but before that product was available I used a double throw
safety switch and sub panel or put it between the lighting panel if it
was separate from the a main panel with the heavy loads. Of course you
run a separate line outdoors to your portable genset and depending on
its capacity you will have to choose which loads to turn off/on as
needed. ^_^

http://www.homedepot.com/p/t/1001517...27-_-100151733

http://tinyurl.com/a9fqckb

TDD