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tableclocks · Feb 23, 2007, 06:30 PM

If I use a interlocking plate to backfeed my main(homelite 200amp)from my generator... from my garage... can I use the braker that is feeding the garage if I put it in the proper place to accommodate the interlocking plate? It's a 220 30 amp braker... so part of the question is... will the braker that feeds... allow a feed from the other direction? Yes I know to turn off the brakers that I won't need so I don't overload... thank you tkrussell.. your a big help to a lot of people on here.thank you...

tkrussell · Feb 24, 2007, 07:29 AM

Sure, standard residential breakers will allow current to flow in either direction.

Thanks for the kind words.

labman · Feb 24, 2007, 08:14 AM

I have dug into this subject quite a bit. I would like to point out that what the plates do is allow one or the other breaker to be on at once, but never both. Without one, power could flow from you generator in the garage to the breaker box, all your circuits, and back through the meter and out the transformer and through it into the high voltage lines.

With the plate in place, and the main breaker on, you can't turn the breaker you back feed on, and can't power its circuit from the main. If I ever find an affordable plate to fit my box, I plan to sacrifice my unused electric dryer circuit.

The search feature works well here. If you are wanting more information and sources for plates, a search should turn up several threads on them and other alternatives. I would be interested to know where you are getting your plate. My best source quoted me $250 for a custom plate to fit my old GE box.