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Residential Electrical Equipment 101

November 25, 2024

GenerLinks – What are they, and how do they work?

With storm season upon us and a new metering system on the horizon, we’ve received questions from members about GenerLinks. So, let’s take a closer look at what they do and how they work.

What are they?

A GenerLink is a socket-mounted device that provides a safe way to connect a portable generator to your home. They are an alternative to traditional transfer switches or panel interlocks that require hiring an electrician. Lane Electric installs GenerLinks at no charge after the member procures them.

How it works

A service technician installs a GenerLink between your home’s electric meter and socket. It provides an air gap that prevents dangerous backfeeding of electricity onto power lines, which can severely injure, or even kill, a lineworker.

Once installed, you can plug your generator into the GenerLink and select which circuits and appliances to run.

Benefits

A GenerLink provides:

  • Flexibility: Select which appliances to run from your home’s breaker panel. You can run large 120 or 240-volt appliances up to 9,600 Watts. Also, compatibility is dependent on the member’s electric service type and the generator.
  • Surge protection: Some GenerLink devices have built-in surge protection.
  • Compatibility: Not all generators are compatible with a GenerLink. Compatibility depends on the generator’s plug type, wattage, and voltage.

Do I need one?

If you would like to safely use a portable generator to power your home during an outage you should have a GenerLink installed.

How do I get one?

Reach out to Lane Electric before procuring a Generlink so that we can check compatibility. Then, you can reach out to Global Power Products to learn more and secure one.

Questions? Reach out to Lane Electric at 541-484-1151

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my GenerLink work with Lane Electric’s new meters?

  • Yes! There will be no issues connecting to the new meters.

After an outage, how do I know if my power is back on?

  • Generlinks have a built-in indicator light that shows the presence of utility power. You can also check the old-fashioned way by turning off the generator and flipping on a light switch.