A simple guide on how to connect a generator to the mains at home without help
A spare source of electricity will never interfere in the house in case of emergencies. Unscheduled and indefinite or emergency shutdown of light can adversely affect electrical appliances. And if your heating system depends on electricity supply, then in winter there is a risk of cooling down the house and freezing its owner.
Buying a generator is not an option. But the correct connection will guarantee the safe use of the device and provide power during a failure.
There are two main schemes for connecting a generator to a house. Both methods are designed for self-installation without calling the wizard. Which method is simpler, lighter and fits the type of generator is up to you:
- Toggle switch method;
- Through automatic control.
Connection with changeover switch
Two types of switches are applicable here: either changeover or reversible (with 3 moves-positions). They simply switch the home network to different power sources. Both have 3 branches:
- the first is from the main power grid to the generator,
- the second - from the house to the generator,
- the third - from the generator to the instruments.
To correctly account for the electricity consumed at home, it is very useful to know. It is only necessary to adhere to the general installation scheme and take into account the different parameters of the device when choosing it.
The principle of operation of an electric generator is that it will be in operation when the main network is turned off (de-energized). If the current supply from the general electrical network is normal, then the generator cannot function. That is, one thing is active or both sources of electricity are turned off.
To connect a generator in a private house, it is better to use cables with copper wire inside. As a rule, it looks like a cord with two plugs at the edges.
Contact mounting scheme:
- upper contacts - a cable is attached from the main network;
- contacts in the middle - a private circuit at home;
- lower contacts - designed for power plant (grounding).
It is important to connect the entire circuit, and then start the generator!
How to start the generator:
- it takes a couple of minutes to warm up the generator;
- turn the switch on the shield down.
Connecting a generator with automatic start
There are stations that are equipped with automatic service. The automatic unit is connected to the generator and to the mains. When the power goes out in the house, the generator system automatically kicks in, replacing the main power source. When the power supply is restored, the station also switches itself off.
Such a unit can be purchased separately from electrical stores.
AVR connection principle:
- the AVR system is connected to the mains;
- ATS and generator connects the control cable;
- a cable comes out of it, which is attached to the contacts of the generator and already from it conducts electricity to the house.
Important! Any work on connecting generators must be carried out when the house or apartment is de-energized by you personally! This ensures that you are not accidentally struck by an electrical discharge.
Safety Rules When Using Home Power Plant
Compliance with the rules will protect against short circuits, injury, etc.:
- If the station is located in a residential area, then good ventilation is the first thing to ensure. If the generator is of high power, then it should be put outside.
- It is better to hide the station from the adverse effects of the weather, in particular, precipitation and humidity.
- When attaching contacts, do not leave bare sections of wires.
- Fuel-powered generators should not be located near high temperatures.
- Avoid contact with a running generator. Do not approach in developing clothes, because the fan inside can draw fabric, oilcloth, etc.
- Grounding is mandatory for diesel and gasoline generators.
Spilled fuel is thoroughly wiped up. Switch off the unit before refueling.
How to properly ground the generator
To ground a home power plant, you only need a small metal rod (diameter -15 mm) and the same tube (diameter - 50 mm, both products are 1.5 m long), as well as galvanized sheet iron (500 mm * 1000 mm).
Having previously understood the features of different types of soldering irons, solders, having made the necessary preparation for the soldering process and adhering to all safety measures, only then can the amateur master safely claim that he knows.
Soldering is still the main method for creating various circuits. How not to make a mistake with the choice of the right soldering iron - will help. And you can learn how to assemble such a tool at home.
Strong fasteners at both ends of the rod from the generator to the pipe in the ground ensure that, with a possible voltage, they will not be torn off by a power flow. The tube is stuck deep into the ground, which must be constantly wet, for its entire length. We leave only 7-10 cm on top.
Use electrical appliances correctly!