GE GE-200A - User Manual

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Summary

General Safety and Panel Preparation

Panel Box Safety Warning

Emphasizes qualified personnel and adherence to the National Electric Code for panel work.

Prepare Panel for Installation

Turn off main breaker and remove the electrical panel cover.

Interlock Installation Procedure

Mark and Drill Panel Cover

Mark holes for the interlock plate, drill them, and remove any burrs from the cover.

Assemble Interlock Mechanism

Install bottom and top plates using screws, thread lock, and retaining nuts for proper movement.

Install Generator Breaker and Sticker

Mount the 2-pole Generator breaker and apply the Generator Warning Sticker.

Secure Breakers with Zip Ties

Create a loop with zip ties and secure them around the top set of breakers for stability.

Final Verification and Operation

Reinstall Cover and Test Interlock

Reinstall the panel cover and verify correct interlock operation for both breakers.

Apply Operational Labels

Place Generator start-up and CAUTION labels on the panel box and meter pan.

Disclaimer and Contact Information

Product Use Disclaimer

States GenInterlock.com is not responsible for misuse or improper installation.

This document describes the GenInterlock GE-200A, a mechanical interlock device designed for use with electrical panel boxes to safely connect a generator. The primary function of this interlock is to prevent the main breaker and a generator breaker from being simultaneously in the "ON" position, thereby ensuring that the generator cannot backfeed power into the utility grid, which is a critical safety measure.

Function Description:

The GenInterlock GE-200A acts as a safety mechanism for electrical panels, specifically designed to manage the power source selection between the utility grid (main breaker) and a generator (generator breaker). It is a mechanical device that physically restricts the movement of the breakers. When the main breaker is "ON," the interlock prevents the generator breaker from being turned "ON." Conversely, when the generator breaker is "ON," the interlock prevents the main breaker from being turned "ON." This "either/or" operation is crucial for preventing dangerous backfeeding of power into the utility lines, which can pose a severe electrocution risk to utility workers and damage electrical equipment. The device ensures that only one power source can be active at any given time, adhering to National Electric Code (NEC) regulations for generator connections.

The interlock operates by a horizontal throw mechanism, moving from left (off) to right (on) for the main breaker. It is specifically designed for the top right side of the panel, accommodating two positions for the generator breaker. The installation process involves disassembling the interlock, marking and drilling holes on the panel cover, and then securing the interlock plates with screws and retaining nuts. Proper movement of the interlock must be verified after installation. A 2-pole generator breaker is then installed on the top right side, and a Generator Warning Sticker is placed on it.

Further safety measures include the use of zip ties to secure the top set of breakers in the panel, ensuring a tight fit, and the placement of a Warning label near the release tab on the zip tie at the generator breaker. After installation, the panel cover is re-installed, and the proper operation of the interlock is verified. This verification includes confirming that when the main breaker is "ON," the generator breaker "CAN NOT" be turned on, and when the generator breaker is "ON," the main breaker "CAN NOT" be turned on. If the panel cover touches any breaker, adjustments to the cover's top and bottom screws are recommended.

Important Technical Specifications:

Model: GE-200A
Main Breaker Amperage: 200 amp
Main Breaker Operation: Horizontal throw, left (off) to right (on)
Generator Breaker Location: Top right side, 2 positions
Drill Bit Size for Installation: 3/16 inch (supplied)
Components: Bottom plate (holes only), top plate (slotted), screws, retaining nuts, zip ties, Generator Warning Sticker, Generator start-up procedure label, CAUTION label.

Usage Features:

Safety Interlock: The primary feature is the mechanical interlock that prevents simultaneous operation of the main and generator breakers, ensuring compliance with electrical safety codes.
Clear Breaker Operation: The main breaker operates with a horizontal throw, making its "ON" and "OFF" positions intuitive.
Dedicated Generator Breaker Space: Designed for a 2-pole generator breaker in the top right two positions of the panel, providing a standardized and clear setup.
Visual Warnings: Includes a Generator Warning Sticker for the generator breaker and labels for generator start-up procedures and general caution on the panel box and electric meter pan, enhancing user awareness.
Robust Installation: Utilizes screws, retaining nuts, and thread lock for a secure and durable installation.
Verification Steps: The manual emphasizes verifying the interlock's proper function after installation, ensuring that the safety mechanism is working as intended.
Emergency Disconnect: The design ensures that even if the panel cover is removed, the generator breaker should "NEVER" be able to be turned on if the interlock is functioning correctly, adding an extra layer of safety.

Maintenance Features:

Initial Verification: The installation process includes explicit steps for verifying the proper movement and function of the interlock. This initial check is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability.
Warning for Malfunction: The document explicitly states that if the interlock does not function properly for any reason, the user should "DO NOT USE" the system and contact GenInterlock.com immediately for support and instructions. This highlights the importance of immediate action if a fault is detected.
Qualified Personnel Requirement: A critical maintenance and safety feature is the strong recommendation that "Only qualified personnel should be working on the panel box." It explicitly states that "An amateur should NEVER open the panel box." This emphasizes that any inspection, troubleshooting, or maintenance beyond the initial installation and verification should be performed by professionals to ensure safety and compliance with electrical codes.
Adherence to Regulations: The instruction to "Please follow all rules and regulations of the National Electric Code" implies that ongoing maintenance and operation should also comply with these standards, which often include periodic inspections of electrical systems.
Contact Information: GenInterlock.com provides contact information (email and phone number) for support, which is essential for addressing any issues or questions that may arise during the device's lifespan.

Disclaimer:

The manufacturer, GenInterlock.com, explicitly states that it is "NOT responsible for misuse or improper installation." It further clarifies that "All electrical equipment should be installed and maintained by qualified personnel" and that "Any consequences arising from improper use is the responsibility of the user." This disclaimer underscores the importance of professional installation and adherence to all instructions and safety guidelines to ensure the safe and effective operation of the interlock device.