Wiring generators

notes
notes Solar Expert Posts: 52 ✭✭
in Off Grid Solar & Battery Systems #1
i am off grid, no solar just running propane generators. Usage is recreational cabin only. Current set up , 5kw Onan split phase into 60 amp service panel. All 115 volt loads. We reduced our loads substantially over the past few years. We can now operate on our Honda EU2000 propane generator. Would like to keep Onan as back up. Is this possible. Add a generator interlock on 2-2 pole breakers for main power. For the Honda, jumper 2 pole breaker to bring power to L1 and L2 in service panel with Onan? Do I also need to switch neutrals with a interlock? 
Thanks for all the info over the years. Learned a lot on this site to one day add solar.
4-Canadian Solar CS330 in series/TraceSW4024/Midnite Classic 250 with Whiz Bang jr/8 L16-370ah 4S2P/ Propane Honda EU2000/Propane Champion3800/electric refrig/Wood heat/Propane tankless water heater/ Grundfos SQE well pump. adding 6 REC Twin Peak 350 watt panels
Off grid in Upper peninsula Michigan
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Comments

  • Ralph Day
    Ralph Day Solar Expert Posts: 1,022 ✭✭✭✭
    #2
    A generator panel works well for this.  I have one to accept split phase 10kw or 120v 2.8kw generators.  Cheap too.
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  • Estragon
    Estragon Registered Users Posts: 4,496 ✭✭✭✭✭
    #3
    IIRC the neutral is not switched on my interlock/portable backfeed panel, which is used to switch between 4kw onan diesel and honda eu2000.

    With no 240v loads, you may want to wire the generator for single 120v output feeding both sides.
    Off-grid.  
    Main daytime system ~4kw panels into 2xMNClassic150 370ah 48v bank 2xOutback 3548 inverter 120v + 240v autotransformer
    Night system ~1kw panels into 1xMNClassic150 700ah 12v bank morningstar 300w inverter
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