Help understanding electrical panel

Homeowner77 · Dec 29, 2020

I’m not looking to do any repairs. Just looking at better understanding on how my home wiring is set up. Home was built in 94’. I’m not electrical savvy, I know some things but what would be the reason to mount a main power switch(breaker)from one side of the house yet mount the sub panel on the opposite side of the house?

Megawatt · Dec 30, 2020

Homeowner77 said:
I’m not looking to do any repairs. Just looking at better understanding on how my home wiring is set up. Home was built in 94’. I’m not electrical savvy, I know some things but what would be the reason to mount a main power switch(breaker)from one side of the house yet mount the sub panel on the opposite side of the house?

There’s nothing wrong with it, maybe the builder wanted the electricians to install a panel in front of the house so it can cover the front and the main panel to cover the back part of the house. It actually gives you options if you need anything added.

Megawatt · Dec 30, 2020

Homeowner77 said:
I’m not looking to do any repairs. Just looking at better understanding on how my home wiring is set up. Home was built in 94’. I’m not electrical savvy, I know some things but what would be the reason to mount a main power switch(breaker)from one side of the house yet mount the sub panel on the opposite side of the house?

Is that 2 meters you have ?

Lister1987 · Dec 30, 2020

Megawatt said:
Is that 2 meters you have ?

One is labelled up PV so maybe a solar-to-grid option to 'sell back' any excess PV generation?

Homeowner77 · Jan 1, 2021

Lister1987 said:
One is labelled up PV so maybe a solar-to-grid option to 'sell back' any excess PV generation?

Yes we have solar panels. While I did mention not doing any work. I was contemplating installing a separate switch for my generator so that I can plug into my existing panel and turn off main switch in a case of power outages.

Megawatt · Jan 1, 2021

Homeowner77 said:
Yes we have solar panels. While I did mention not doing any work. I was contemplating installing a separate switch for my generator so that I can plug into my existing panel and turn off main switch in a case of power outages.

My friend it sounds like you have it under control and I hope I helped you with your questions. Happy new year

Lister1987 · Jan 1, 2021

Homeowner77 said:
Yes we have solar panels. While I did mention not doing any work. I was contemplating installing a separate switch for my generator so that I can plug into my existing panel and turn off main switch in a case of power outages.

Go for a purpose built changeover switch as opposed to something requiring user input.

pc1966 · Jan 2, 2021

As above, definitely get a purpose-built generator transfer switch, and if you can get one of the automatic types.

The fancier ones will also start your generator and manage the power transfer to and off generator for you with short delays to make sure it is safe/necessary to change, and allowing a short cool-down period after returning to the utility power before stopping the generator to give its engine a longer life.