Professional

Interlock Installation

Same Day

Installation Time

50 Amps

Powers All Outlets

Tri-Fuel

Gas/Propane/Natural Gas

Professional Interlock Installation - The Smart Backup Power Solution

An interlock kit transforms your portable generator into a safe, code-compliant whole-house backup power system. For a fraction of the cost of automatic standby generators, you get reliable backup power that can run all the lights and outlets in your home.

This isn't a DIY extension cord solution. It's a professional, permanent installation that safely connects your generator to your electrical panel, allowing you to power any circuit in your home during an outage.

How Generator Interlock Kits Work

An interlock kit is a mechanical device that ensures your main breaker and generator breaker cannot be on simultaneously. This prevents dangerous backfeeding that could injure utility workers or damage equipment.

The System Components

  • Interlock plate: Mechanical sliding plate installed on your panel cover
  • Generator inlet box: Weatherproof 30 or 50-amp connection mounted outside
  • Generator breaker: New breaker in your panel for generator input
  • Heavy wiring: 6 or 8 AWG copper from inlet to panel
  • Connection cable: 50-amp cord from generator to inlet (sold separately)

Step-by-Step Operation During Power Outage

  1. Verify outage: Check neighbors to confirm utility outage
  2. Position generator: Roll out to safe location (20+ feet from house)
  3. Start generator: Let warm up for 2-3 minutes
  4. Connect cable: Plug into generator and inlet box
  5. Turn off main breaker: Disconnects from utility
  6. Slide interlock plate: Allows generator breaker to turn on
  7. Turn on generator breaker: Powers your panel
  8. Manage circuits: Turn on breakers for needed circuits

Tri-Fuel Generators We Recommend and Supply

50-Amp Tri-Fuel Generators We Supply

We supply and recommend tri-fuel generators that operate on gasoline, propane, or natural gas:

  • Power output: 9,500-12,000 starting watts
  • 50-amp capability: Powers all lights and standard outlets
  • Electric start: Key fob remote starting
  • Runtime: 8-12 hours on gasoline, unlimited on natural gas
  • Noise level: 72-74 dB at 23 feet

Natural Gas Connection Option

We coordinate with licensed gas contractors to install quick-disconnect fittings for natural gas operation. This eliminates refueling during extended outages - your generator runs as long as the gas flows. Contact for details.

Using Your Existing Portable Generator

Already own a portable generator? We can install an interlock kit for it if it meets these requirements:

  • Minimum 30-amp output (7,500 watts)
  • L14-30 or L14-50 outlet
  • Floating neutral or bonded neutral compatible
  • Good working condition

Professional interlock installation for your existing generator. Contact for walkthrough.

What Can You Power?

With 50-Amp Generator (Recommended)

Run Simultaneously:

  • All lights in the house
  • All standard 120V outlets
  • Refrigerator and freezer
  • Furnace or boiler
  • Sump pump
  • Internet and home office
  • Microwave
  • Multiple TVs
  • Garage door openers

Load Management Required

Large Loads (One at a Time):

  • Electric water heater (turn off other loads first)
  • Electric dryer (if essential)
  • Electric range (one or two burners)
  • Window AC units
  • Space heaters

Installation Process - Same Day Service

Morning: Assessment and Parts

  • Evaluate your electrical panel
  • Confirm compatible interlock kit model
  • Determine inlet box location
  • Calculate wire run distance

Afternoon: Installation

  • Install weatherproof inlet box outside
  • Run wiring from inlet to panel (through wall/basement)
  • Install interlock plate on panel
  • Add dedicated generator breaker
  • Make all connections and torque to spec
  • Test mechanical interlock operation
  • Complete permit documentation
  • Train you on safe operation

Safety and Code Compliance

DIY generator connections are illegal and dangerous. Our professional installation ensures:

Electrical Safety

  • No backfeeding to utility lines (protects linemen)
  • Proper grounding and bonding
  • Correct wire sizing for amperage
  • NEMA-rated components throughout
  • Torqued connections to manufacturer specs

Code Compliance

  • Meets NEC Article 702 requirements
  • Michigan Electrical Code compliant
  • Local permit and inspection
  • Insurance company acceptable
  • Documented installation for home sale

Maintenance and Operation Tips

Generator Maintenance (DIY)

  • Monthly: Start and run for 15 minutes under load
  • Before each use: Check oil level
  • Seasonal: Change oil (every 50 hours)
  • Annual: Replace spark plug and air filter
  • Fuel: Use stabilizer if storing over 30 days

Operating Best Practices

  • Keep written procedure posted near panel
  • Practice switchover quarterly
  • Monitor total load - don't exceed generator capacity
  • Start large loads one at a time
  • Keep spare oil and filters on hand
  • Store extra fuel safely (follow local codes)

Service Options

Option Details Installation Operation
Interlock Only
(You have generator)
Professional installation Same day Manual
Interlock + Generator
(Complete package)
We supply generator Same day Manual
+ Natural Gas
(No refueling)
Available option Next day Manual
Standby Generator
(For comparison)
Automatic system 2 days Automatic

Perfect For These Situations

Ideal Customers

  • 3-5 outages per year
  • Outages under 24 hours typically
  • Comfortable with manual operation
  • Budget conscious
  • May move in next few years
  • Already own a generator

Common Applications

  • Sump pump backup
  • Keep food from spoiling
  • Work from home continuity
  • Medical equipment (non-critical)
  • Comfort during outages
  • RV/camping generator dual use

Not Sure Which Generator Solution?

Compare all options on our main generator page. For automatic operation and whole-house coverage, see our standby generator installation service.

Get Professional Backup Power Today

Same-day professional interlock installation

We can also supply tri-fuel generators with 50-amp output

Schedule Installation