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    Skeeter1's Avatar
    Skeeter1 Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Apr 5, 2008, 10:28 AM
    Testing 220v outlet
    Hello!

    I have a 4 wire outlet in the garage which is used for a generator. Wire colors are Black, Red, White, and a Copper wire wrapped in paper. All the wiring is contained in a metal conduit.

    I just purchased a heater for the garage and it had a 3 wire plug. I disconnected the conduit, pulled the wires out, cut the conduit and wires (only the Black, Red, and Copper ones) to where the heater outlet will go. Installed the outlet box and receptacle, attached the 3 wires (BRC). So, I think I can now run the generator with the heater unpluged or just the heater.

    I tested it with my meter I bought and I have the following:
    B to R - no continuity
    R to G - no continuity
    B to G - no continuity
    G to the conduit and box - I have continuity

    Is the correct? I was just worried about the Ground to the conduit and box where I have continuity

    Thank you very much whoever can assess my 2nd grade electrical skills!
    R/John
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #2

    Apr 5, 2008, 01:10 PM
    Are you saying that you plug a generator into a receptacle to backfeed the house??
    Skeeter1's Avatar
    Skeeter1 Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #3

    Apr 5, 2008, 02:48 PM
    That is corret... and I kill the main so the power does not go out.
    Thanks,
    R/John
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #4

    Apr 5, 2008, 02:56 PM
    WOW! That is SO wrong it is scary.
    I don't CARE how careful you think you are being, that is a DANGEROUS and highly ILLEGAL thing to do.
    Linemen working on power lines have been injured and even killed because of illegal backfeeds such as yours. Besides the fact that you are dealing with an even more scary (and stupid) male-to-male extension cord!

    I know you probably don't care to hear it, but I would SERIOUSLY consider having a proper transfer switch or main breaker interlock kit installed.
    DO THE RIGHT THING MAN!
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