[CQ-Contest] Generators....Don't kill Your Lineman!

[dave at egh.com]

Hi,

	A very good point was made by J. (concerning the danger that the 
lineman can be in if a generator is hooked to a house wiring system in an
incorrect manner).

	I have employed a solution which is a cost compromise between the 
expense of properly (i.e., safely and legally) switching the generator 
in to my home's wiring, and having unsightly extension cords running 
through my home.  I have run several lines of romex (in the walls just
like the rest of the wiring) to areas I wanted to run off the generator.
(One runs to my refrigerator, another to the water pump, etc.)  Each of
these lines has its own receptacle, and the other end goes out the garage
and ends in a plug.  When the plugs are put into the generator, the new
receptacles become live.  All I have to do then is remove the refrigerator
plug from its regular receptacle and plug it into the new one.  Thus the 
generator wiring is not connected in any way to the house wiring, and no
wires clutter up the floor.  The cost of materials is reasonably small, 
and the cost of labor is free if you have electrical experience.  (If not,
perhaps you can find a friend who is willing to barter.)  One thing to
remember, use interior walls if possible unless your house is uninsulated.
This makes the job of snaking the wires quick and easy.

73, Dave Clemons K1VUT



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