Think of a generator inlet box as an electrical outlet for your house. When connecting a manual transfer switch to a portable generator, the power inlet box serves as the link, or gateway, that allows power to flow into your essential circuits.

 

What is a Power Inlet Box?

In applications where the electrical panel is in the basement, it wouldn't be feasible to connect the portable generator directly to the manual transfer switch (which sits next to the panel).

Instead, a power inlet box serves as the connection point to get the electricity inside the house because, remember, a portable generator must be run outside at all times to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. 

 

Installing a Generator Power Inlet Box

Your electrician installs the power inlet box on the side of your house near your main electrical panel. Inside, it is hardwired to your manual transfer switch, which restores power to your main electrical panel.

When the power goes out, you simply connect one end of a power cord to your portable generator outlet. The other end is plugged into the power inlet box. It's as simple as plugging in outdoor holiday lights.

When to Install a Power Inlet Box

Before your electrician starts drilling a hole on the side of your house, make sure you truly need a power inlet box.

If your main electrical panel is installed in your garage, you don't need one. You simply need at least a 25-foot power cord and a manual transfer switch with an outlet. Then, connect the generator directly into the transfer switch through the garage. Just make sure that your generator is far enough away from the house to avoid inhaling any fumes.

The same goes for your basement. If you have a nearby window, you can drop the power cord through the window and connect it directly into the transfer switch.

If you decide to install a power inlet box after all, you have a couple of options. First, make sure the inlet box amperage matches that of the power cord and transfer switch. Second, get one that can be painted because you'll want it to blend in with the exterior of the house.

 

Connect Your Power

A generator inlet box is a convenient connection point when you can't run a power cord directly to the transfer switch. If you have questions about choosing a power inlet box, please call us at 800-800-3317.