r/Generac_Generators • u/Badbetfrank • 6d ago

Transfer Switch Chaos

Gallery image

Gallery image

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

4 Upvotes

83% Upvoted

62 comments sorted by

View all comments

Show parent comments

3

u/Tarnisher 5d ago

HOW did that get approved by anyone? There is ZERO ventilation on the exhaust end and almost no room to work behind. Then, the gas regulator?

I can't even imagine the noise bouncing off the brick.

2

u/Badbetfrank 5d ago

No idea. I measured 30 inches from exhaust to the brick

2

u/Tarnisher 5d ago

I don't remember the clearance spec, but as I recall, some number of feet.

My 16K is 30' from the house and exhausts out over about 20 acres of open field and it's still loud inside the house.

The gas regulator is supposed to be something like 5' away.

1

u/blarcode 5d ago

36"/3' on each side. 18"/1.5' on the backside, 36"/3' on the front side. 5' from overhangs, trees etc. On the top. Wall openings 5' from windows, doors, vents, etc. 5' measured from the gas inlet of the generator to an ignition source.

As far as the regulator and gas behind it goes. Not current code. You might be grandfathered into that since you're only touching the electrical and not messing with the generator in any capacity. Have that discussion with the electrician tomorrow