Generator inlets and interlocks in Raleigh, Cary and Apex

A generator inlet with a panel interlock lets you plug a portable generator into one weatherproof box outside, then choose which circuits to run, safely and to code. It costs far less than a standby generator.

What the work involves

The inlet is a weatherproof box on the outside wall, wired to a breaker in your panel and sized to your generator, typically 30 or 50 amps.

The interlock is a sliding plate on the panel that makes it physically impossible to have the main breaker and the generator breaker on at the same time. That stops the generator from backfeeding the utility lines, which protects line workers and your generator.

Repairs cover existing inlets that have worn out, leak, or were installed without proper protection.

How we do it

1. We match the inlet and breaker to your generator’s output and help you list the circuits you want to run, such as the fridge, furnace, well pump and some lights.
2. We install the inlet, the breaker and an interlock kit made for your panel.
3. We walk you through switching over during an outage, and the town inspects.

In one Wake Forest home we installed a 50-amp inlet and an interlock kit so the owners can run their essentials from a portable generator.

What affects the cost

• The inlet size, 30 or 50 amps, and the generator it has to match
• The distance from the panel to where the inlet goes outside
• Whether an interlock kit is available for your panel brand, or the panel needs other changes
• Repairing an existing inlet or installing a new one

Permits

An inlet and interlock change your panel, so they’re permitted and inspected through your city, town or county. We pull the permit. Each town page lists the right office.