Posted: 1/31/2009 10:14:18 PM EDT
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I have a Briggs and Stratton 5500/8250 generator.
I have no idea what kind of transfer switch (amps, watts rating etc) I need. Nor do I know where to buy one. Any suggestions? |
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Automatic or manual?
Something like this should work, but if you're asking that question you really really want someone qualified to install it. That means pay an electrician. He'll probably have a better idea what you want too. |
Depends what you want to do. Cheapest is a whole house transfer , maybe $150. http://www.nextag.com/RELIANCE-CONTROLS-60-100-573855953/prices-html
Or if you want to pull out individual circuits you want to power, then that'll be in the $300 neighborhood http://www.nextag.com/GenTran-30-Amp-4-544116439/prices-html 
Assuming you want to run 220ac, each leg of that 5500watts going to pull 22 amps. If you are only running 120 Volts, then you'll be pulling about 46 amps. Peak...multiply that to 68 amps for 120ac, and 33 amps for a split leg 220ac setup. 100amp box would cover it. Add in some twist lock plugs, #4 cabling to the gen ( bigger the better to minimize ohm losses ) ... figure another hundred or two. In any case, get a Kill-A-Watt meter and actually *measure* what your appliances use. http://www.nextag.com/kill_-_a_-_watt/shop-html  This is just from a random search on ask jeeves. Likely better prices out there.
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Make sure you get it installed and tested by a CERTIFIED person, Electrian or Service Tech, whichever will cover you for insurance.
(And an electrian say "Sure my installation is good enough" needs to be checked. (ex Electrian) here) Becuse insureance might not pay if it burns your house. For the larger Gens they are not covered by Warranty if not tested by Gen Service Tech for operation after installation. Also you need a Salior Proof way for transfer to insure no chance of getting Main line and Gen powering house at same time This wont be a long time about 1/3 of a cycle till somethings opens/fireballs Thats why you need it checked Argon Gen Service Tech |