Maybe I misunderstood the directions I was given. I was told to turn off
ALL breakers, then the main. Connect the cable to the generator, then
the wall socket. Crank the generator and let it warm up then turn on
only the breakers needed but keeping in mind not to overload the
capacity of the generator. I didn't see the risk of shock while the
main is off and the generator is off. I don't profess to be an
electrician by a long shot. I was thinking that a double or triple pole
master cutoff switch before the meter would make it impossible to
backfeed the utility pole. Is this wrong? I was told that the main
breaker may not have sufficient gap to ensure the electricity won't
"jump" the gap in the main breaker, but a safety cutoff switch has
several inches of clearance between the two.

Tom, I like the idea you have about the Square D box, but it does
seem like a lot of work. I see Square D sells a 200 amp breaker box
with the interlock switch already in it. Would this replace the box I
have now? I almost bought one recently, but didn't know enough about
it. My neighbor has a big master cutoff switch box outside next to the
meter. It's to cutoff power before it gets into the house to the main
breaker. That's where I got the idea. I really don't want a transfer
switch/box but I'm still weighing the pros/cons. I just think it's so
much easier and so much more flexiblity.


--
rh455
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