Comments and Questions about Generators |
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One Generator for Multiple Electrical ServicesBob, from Lebec, California asks: We have a 400 amp main panel with 3 meters so essentially we have 3 separate main electrical service panels that provide power to three separate sub panels- two separate structures and a water well pump. Is it possible to set this system up with a single backup generator and an automatic transfer switch (or three separate switches) that will power all three sub panels from the single generator when switched to Generator power, and then when switched back to main service power the three sub panels would be powered by the three separate Main electrical panels? Thanks, Bob Bob, Yes, this can be done. Just as the power for all three of your existing services comes from one source, the generator power would be the one source of power for all three services as well, however you will need one transfer switch for each service, so for this type of installation the generator would need to be sized for the full potential load for all three services. Priority load shedding may be accomplished by installing current monitors that will shed one of the services if the load reached a critical point for the generator. Priority load shedding will require you to decide which of the service panels are essential and which ones are non-essential. Prioritizing the electrical load may also be accomplished at each service by connecting current monitors on larger non-essential circuits. |
