Portable Generator Connection to small pump control panels

[jartgo]

I'm looking for perhaps an off the shelf panel or a wiring diagram for a panel that will allow connection of a portable generator in the event of a power outage. The pumps in question are small 1/2 to 1 HP, as you would see in a low pressure collection system. I want to provide a means to hook a portable generator and have a manual disconnect. I'm thinking I could do this with circuit breakers? Thanks!

 

[bimr]

What you need is a manual transfer switch that is rated for the same amps as your service.

http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/R-100...71587&storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053

You can use a recepticle for plugging in the generator.

You don't need a circuit breaker.

 

[jartgo]

Hey bimr,
I was hoping to avoid something that substantial due to cost...there will be about 200 of these little pumps. Just looking for an inexpensive and convenient way to power the little guys (one at a time) in the event of a community wide power outage.

Normal line power is coming from the individual homes, so I was thinking a breaker to line power and a breaker to a twist lock, which would allow manual "disconnect" from house power.

Any other ideas?

 

[bimr]

There is no method to hard wire a transfer switch for just a few dollars. Your only low cost option is to connect each pump to the power using single 6 ft long power cord and recepticle. In the event of a power outage, disconnect the power from the recepticle and plug it into the generator.

 

[Spartan5]

Are these houses on wells or a public water supply?

If they're on wells, you don't really have an issue.

Is this a Septic Tank Effluent Pump (STEP) system or grinder pumps?

If it's a STEP system, you should have adequate storage for most situations, even if on a public water supply.

 

[jartgo]

They're on public water. It's a STEP system, replacing conventional septic tanks. There is storage, but method to power the pumps in an outage is desired. I'll look at using a cord with a plug.

 

[Spartan5]

I like bimr's idea provided it's allowable from a code standpoint.

As I understand it, he is suggesting wiring the output for pump control to a receptacle (GFCI) external to the control panel. The pump, instead of being wired directly into the control panel, would instead terminate in a standard 3 prong plug. In the event of a power outage, the pump could be unplugged from the receptacle and plugged directly into the generator, bypassing the controls.

Alternatively, the entire control panel could be connected in that fashion. Instead of the panel being hardwired into the house, it could be supplied with power via a plug and receptacle.

In either situation though, I worry that the plug/receptacle would have to be secured in some fashion to prevent tampering. Want to get back at your neighbor? Unplug his pump/controls. Although with bimr's idea you'd still get a high water alarm in the event someone disconnected the pump.

Let us know what you decide and are able to get approved.