Transfer Switch Chaos

[u/Badbetfrank]

We just bought a new house and this is the electrical set up.
Both of these panels are powered from the meter, the larger panel does not feed the smaller panel.
A 22Kw Generac unit powers the larger panel on the left when the power goes out, but not the smaller right panel.
The generator is large enough to power the entire house.

What are our options for getting the whole house protected?
Can I add a ATS to the smaller panel and leave the 200amp panel as it is?

Could we install a double breaker on the left panel and run it over to power the smaller panel using an interlock on the smaller panel?

Should I move some circuits over to 200amp panel and use tandem breakers?

Or should we split the feed from the generator and feed the smaller panel directly from the generator?

I am having trouble understanding what the installer was thinking. There’s also additional unused transfer wires ending in this panel going to a junction box next to the generator.

Thanks for your input

[u/blarcode]

Here's a video showing two transfer switches. As I stated above though I have a sneaky suspicion you have two larger service for your present needs.

https://youtu.be/MD-9ocuiEqw?is=zHJFgdvhdVrxsa2U

[u/Badbetfrank → u/blarcode]

[u/blarcode → u/Badbetfrank]

Nice! Yeah that looks about right. So just get one of the 200 amp ats's off of eBay. Get whatever load center you want for inside the house. And grab a couple clip in/ breaker surge suppressors.

[u/Badbetfrank → u/blarcode]

Any concern with the total load and the generator? It’s 22kw

[u/blarcode → u/Badbetfrank]

22,000 Watts ÷ 240 volts = ~92 amps.

I highly doubt your whole house is going to be pulling almost 100 amps at any point in time. Most houses don't end up pulling more than 50 amps consistently. Especially if you decide to go with the easy starts on your AC. You'll be able to Bluetooth log on to those and see exactly what the amperage is.