Instead of PowerShare, I installed an interlock and 50amp receptacle...

[jimbaum]

This idea really interests me and I want to ask my electrician if he can help set this up for me.
I read that you typically need a transfer switch if using a generator when switching from utility. Is one not needed when feeding off of your CT?

Also, when you say install a 50 Amp breaker, do you mean install the breaker between the CT and your main panel so that it would trip if your main drew more than 50 amps?

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[scranfil]

Thank you for sharing this set up. I'm going to go this route for whole house back up off my CT.

 

[Beetlebug62]

This idea really interests me and I want to ask my electrician if he can help set this up for me.
I read that you typically need a transfer switch if using a generator when switching from utility. Is one not needed when feeding off of your CT?

Also, when you say install a 50 Amp breaker, do you mean install the breaker between the CT and your main panel so that it would trip if your main drew more than 50 amps?

I'm no expert; but you can setup your generator with a manual transfer switch, like:

Choosing your circuits, 6, 10, etc.The kits have 3 parts, a cord, going from generator to receptacle, a receptacle. And, a transfer switch that your electrician wires to the essential circuits you choose to be powered. Typically, I see these kits for smaller generators in the 5000-7500 watt range. You can't power too much. You can wire it that way.

But, if your power source, ie generator or CT, can meet the load of your house, then you don't have to choose your circuits, you can power the whole panel, with an interlock.

Cheaper parts, cheaper install, simpler, almost the same process for the homeowner to turn on and off.

I had a 12000 watt automatic standby generator, that failed after 12yrs. My original plan was to install a PowerShare which was also 12000 watts, but there was no certified installer in my state. I could replace the standby generator, but since my CT is almost the same wattage, 9600 watts, I felt it should have little difficulty in powering my house just using an interlock and a plug from the truckbed outlets.

The electrician installs the little odd-shaped metal piece, called an interlock. You see how you have to switch off the main breaker, 200amp, at the top, to then slide the interlock up. When you do that, the 40-amp breaker on the lower right, then can be switched on. That is connected to the 50amp receptacle that goes to my CT. The main is off, but the panel is safely energized by the CT or portable generator. It's a simple device.

This is virtually the same install that an electrician would do if you asked for an interlock with a 50amp receptacle for a 10000 watt portable generator. It's nice, because it's not Tesla-specific. You can buy a 10000 watt portable generator for $1000 and power your house that way, or use your CT. Same cord and everything. You don't even have to tell him that you want to use your CT. It's nice because you shouldn't be ripped off for such a generic install.

Now, the 40amp breaker is a mistake. It should be a 50amp. The continuous load is 40amp. My electrician must have been confused, or only had a 40. I'll get him to swap a 50 in.

 

[jimbaum]

Ok, I just want something cheap, so with your explanation, I think I will get the interlock and the plug to get started to see how that goes.

I have yet to experience a major power outage (we survived the Winter TX Armageddon in 2021) since apparently we are the 'hospital grid', so knock on wood there, but nonetheless, I still want to be somewhat prepared. Owning a CT opens up a whole new set of doors, thankfully

Beetlebug62 - I appreciate you taking the time to 'splain thing to me!

 

[Crissa]

Actually, the lockout depends upon your utility box. You need to find the brand of utility box you have, and then search for an interlock for it.

That's a little disappointing, but makes sense.

-Crissa

 

[stealthynorm]

I have a soft start kit in case anyone wants one, half of retail price.

 

[kpanda17]

I have a soft start kit in case anyone wants one, half of retail price.

Def take the make and model info please

 

[carsly]

I did the same with generator inlet and manual interlock a year ago, works like a champ when needed. I can run one of my two AC's without issue, can't get the second to kick on but in the event of an emergency outage I'm okay with just the one. Both are pretty old so will wait until one kicks the can before adding the soft start with the replacement unit at the same time.

 

[stealthynorm]

I did the same with generator inlet and manual interlock a year ago, works like a champ when needed. I can run one of my two AC's without issue, can't get the second to kick on but in the event of an emergency outage I'm okay with just the one. Both are pretty old so will wait until one kicks the can before adding the soft start with the replacement unit at the same time.

I have an extra soft start kit if you need it and am selling it for $79. Let me know if you are interested.

 

[ViralTesla]

Does your a/c unit have a soft start installed?

Not sure, how would I find out? And if not is that something that can be installed?? Thanks man I appreciate your response, trying to get this all ready before we get hit by a hurricane this year!

 

[CyberGus]

Not sure, how would I find out? And if not is that something that can be installed?? Thanks man I appreciate your response, trying to get this all ready before we get hit by a hurricane this year!

Every AC compressor has a LRU rating, which is the peak amperage at startup. The limit for PowerShare is LRU 110, I believe.

Even though I was just under this limit, I self-installed this "soft start" anyway. It reduced the measured startup current to about 30A, which helps with voltage sags or possible overloading of the 11kW PowerShare limit. Theoretically, it also reduces strain on the AC unit.

I’m sure there are similar units.

Some modern A/C units may have this integrated, but then they would have a low LRU.

 

[REM]

Not sure, how would I find out? And if not is that something that can be installed?? Thanks man I appreciate your response, trying to get this all ready before we get hit by a hurricane this year!

Have you ever noticed any lights or appliances dimming or struggling momentarily when you A/C kicks in? If so, you likely don't have one installed. They are generally around $200ish and can be DIY installed if you are handy. Tons of Youtube videos out there that will get you going.

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