How to Connect A Diesel Generator to Your House?

Diesel generators are fuel-efficient and reliable, which can almost meet the power needs of any application. If you want to power the whole house during power shortages, it’s a good choice to choose a diesel generator set as the backup electricity supply. But how to connect a diesel generator to your house? Read on and you will find the answer.

Options to connect a diesel generator to your home  

Keep in mind that never plug your generator directly into the mains, or it will cause back feeding, damage your appliances and be life-threatening for utility workers. Generally, you can choose to connect a generator to your house by using extension cords or a transfer switch. Understanding the difference between them is helpful for you to choose the right type.

Extension cords  

Typically, extension cords are suitable for smaller diesel generators that used for short term. They require no installation and are cost-effective. If you need to power only some basic appliances such as fridges, lights, and chargers with a portable diesel generator in the event of a power cut, extension cords are an optimal option. They are perfect for short term and occasional power outages.

The downside of extension cords is that they cannot power large or hardwired appliances and are unsuitable for long-term solutions. You can’ t power hardwired items like your furnace or hot water heater because they don’t have a separate plug to connect to the extension cord. Additionally, stringing a bunch of extension cords together is time-consuming. Extension cords are also potentially hazardous to use, especially during a blackout in a heavy storm.

Transfer switches  

Transfer switches are devices that allow the safe connection or disconnection of different sources of electricity to an electric load. They can isolate your home’s electrical system from the primary grid to prevent back feeding, which can cause electrical shock and other potential hazards. Without a transfer switch, you have to manually connect your diesel generator to the equipment you want to power. You wouldn’t be able to use anything hardwired to the home circuit panel. When there is an electricity black-out, a transfer switch ensures that your home can seamlessly switch from grid to generator power. There’s no need to mess with multiple extension cords. There are several types of switches available on the market, but the main types are manual transfer switches, automatic transfer switches and breaker interlocks. Each type has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to choose the one that best fits your needs.

If you want to power the entire house, using a transfer switch is a good option. Compared to extension cords, transfer switches provide a more reliable power source and allow you to power larger, hardwired appliances. Of course, they are more expensive. Transfer switches require professional installation, it’s recommended that you hire a qualified electrician to avoid electrical hazards if you are not experienced with electrical systems. A professional can ensure the transfer switch is installed correctly and safely.

Connect the diesel generator to your home  

After installing a suitable transfer switch, install an inlet box hookup to the exterior of your home. Due to the dangerous fumes your diesel genset releases, the generator must be kept a safe distance away from the house e while still being able to plug it in. Check if your generator has enough fuel and oil to run for as long as you need. If not, top it up. Turn it on and flip the breakers one by one to power your home.

Always start your generator's engine by following the manufacturer's instructions. Never start or stop the generator with other electrical devices plugged into the same socket.

Choosing the right diesel generator for your home  

It’s important to know how to connect a diesel generator to your home safely. To choose the generator that best fits you, there are many factors you need to consider, such as the generator size, your power requirements, portable or installation and so on. If you are not sure how to choose the right one, contact us today.

Dingbo Power is one of the Chinese leading power generation companies that offer diesel generator sets of all sizes and types. We integrate the design, supply, commissioning and maintenance of diesel generator set and cater to diverse power needs. For more help choosing the perfect diesel generator for your home, contact us at dingbo@dieselgeneratortech.com.