Generator Interlock Installation


Generator Interlock and Inlet Installation in Hickory, NC

This time of year, a lot of my calls around Hickory are for generator inlets and interlocks. When the power goes out, people want a safe way to run their house off a portable generator without running extension cords through windows. An inlet and interlock is the simplest way I know to do that.

Inlet and interlock installs start around $1,087 when the inlet goes within 10 feet of your panel and your panel takes a common interlock kit.

How a Generator Interlock Works

I mount a power inlet on the outside of your house and wire it to a breaker in your electrical panel. You plug your generator into the inlet with a cord, and your panel feeds the circuits you choose.

The interlock is a metal plate on your panel that makes it impossible to have your main breaker and your generator breaker on at the same time. That matters for two reasons:

  • It protects line workers. Without it, generator power can feed back out onto the utility lines and hurt the people working to restore your power.
  • It protects your generator and your home when utility power comes back on.

Plugging a generator into a regular outlet with a double-ended cord is dangerous and against code. An interlock is the safe, legal way to do it.

What's Included

  • Power inlet box mounted outside
  • A 15-foot generator cord
  • The generator breaker
  • The interlock kit
  • Permit and inspection
  • Training on how to use it, so you know exactly what to do when the power goes out

Generator Interlock Cost in Hickory

Most installs run around $1,087 when the inlet is within 10 feet of the panel and your panel takes a common interlock kit. The price goes up from there if:

  • Your panel needs a specialty interlock
  • The inlet has to go farther from the panel
  • I have to consolidate breakers to make room for the generator breaker

I'll look at your panel and tell you the price before I start.

Zinsco and Federal Pacific Panels

If you have a Zinsco or Federal Pacific panel, it has to be replaced before I can install an interlock. See my panel replacement page for what that involves.

Need a Generator Too?

I'm a certified DuroMax installer and reseller. I offer a portable generator package, about $5,000 for a 13,000-watt DuroMax with the inlet and interlock installed. If you'd rather have a standby generator that comes on by itself, see my generator installation page. I also install manual transfer switches.

Generator Interlock Questions

How much does a generator interlock cost?

Around $1,087 when the inlet is within 10 feet of the panel and your panel takes a common interlock kit. Specialty interlocks, longer runs or consolidating breakers cost more.

Is the cord included?

Yes. A 15-foot generator cord comes with the install.

Do you pull a permit?

Yes. Every install is permitted and inspected.

Can you put an interlock on any panel?

Most panels, yes. Zinsco and Federal Pacific panels have to be replaced first.

Will you show me how to use it?

Yes. I walk you through it before I leave, so you're ready the next time the power goes out.

Get Ready Before the Next Outage

Call (828) 610-1894 or send me a message. I serve Hickory and the rest of the Catawba Valley.

Related: generator installation · generator maintenance · panel replacement · surge protection