Ignoramus1946 wrote:
HorneTD asked for pictures of my service entrance equipment to give
him a better idea of what is involved in installing a transfer
switch. The pictures have an explanation where the generator will go
(see ServiceEntrance), and the link to the generator page. There are
also pictures of the inside and the main panel.

http://igor.chudov.com/tmp/TransferSwitch/

The question of the day is, what method would be best. I can install:

1) outdoor WH transfer switch between the meter and the main panel
A transfer switch could be mounted right next to your meter. Install
looks pretty easy. Only issue I see is the feed wires to your panel.
Just how far is it to your breaker panel? You may have to pull new wires
if your local inspectors won't allow splices.

2) indoor WH transfer switch between the meter and the main panel
It's ashamed that you have all those branch circuits coming out the top
of your breaker box. If you didn't or they could be moved locating the
switch right above your inside box would be the easiest and cheapest.
Just shorten the conduit, stick in the switch, and add three short
pieces of 2/0 wire and you are done. Good location logistically to. You
start the genset, go to main panel and chose which breakers to leave on
and throw the transfer.

3) Replace existing panel with the panel with built-in transfer switch
such as http://www.nooutage.com/ttv2005c.htm
Good choice if your utility will allow it.

4) buy a main switch lockout and use that to feed the house from the
generator. It is probably not legal, but very cheap. I would rather
do better than that.
You know better than that, or you wouldn't be here looking for answers.

5) Buy a pre-wired manual transfer switch
Less flexible since you will have hard wire in your load choices.

6) Make a subpanel with a transfer switch between main panel and subpanel.

Same as 5 ???

I would like to know what method is best. I am willing to spend money,
but I want to get the best bang for the buck. Also I would like to
pick a relatively easy route that can be done DIY.
DIY ? talk to your local inspectors, if you ask they usually love to
give advice, just don't mention #4!!!


Pictures of the generator are at

http://igor.chudov.com/tmp/onan/Diesel/

i

Dave
Whose slab is ready for the Genset, gotta find a crane company - bye