Wiring the Ground for a Generator and Transfer Switch

How to Connect Grounding for Generators: The portable generator does not require a separate ground rod, however any electrical wiring enclosure including the generator transfer switch is required to be grounded to the ground system of the main panel of the home electrical system.

Grounding a Generator and Transfer Switch
[ad#block]Electrical Question: I want to hook up a Generac GP6500 portable generator to my house, with a Reliance Q310A transfer switch, for use when the power goes out.

• I’ve made all the proper connections in the main panel as described in the transfer switch instructions.
• Do I need to run a separate ground wire to a grounding rod from the generator, or is the ground connection from the generator through the transfer switch which in turn goes through the main panel and out to the existing grounding rod sufficient?

This generator question came from: Dave, a Handyman from Malvern, Pennsylvania.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Dave.

How to Connect Grounding for Generators

• The portable generator does not require a separate ground rod, however any electrical wiring enclosure including the generator transfer switch is required to be grounded to the ground system of the main panel of the home electrical system.
• Make sure you are in compliance with your local building department’s requirements for home generators, and that the installation of the generator transfer switch and electrical wiring has been inspected.

More about Home Generators:

• Generator Section
• The Importance of a Generator Transfer Switch
• Home generators

• Home Generators
• This series covers a wide variety of topics all about home generators including sizing, selecting, connecting and safely operating this all important addition to your home.

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• House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers
• This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.

Home Electrical Wire

• Electrical Wire for the Home
• Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.

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Dave's Guide to Home Electrical Wiring: » You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! « Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book Great for any Home Wiring Project. Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring Perfect for Homeowners, Students, Handyman, Handy Women, and Electricians Includes: Wiring GFCI Outlets Wiring Home Electric Circuits 120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits Wiring Light Switches Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring ....and much more. Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring with my Online Video Course: Basic Home Electrical Wiring by Example

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Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

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