Manual switch grid versus solar: Does this violate code?

[wade0000]

Hello there.

I have a unattached garage that I added solar to power. It already had an AC line coming in.

I wanted to be able to switch back and forth for the garage circuit solar versus the grid based on battery charge, demand etc.

Here is what I did: I wired a 3-prong plug into the circuit. The three prong can either get plugged into the grid or the solar inverter output.... and obviously not both.

Just curious.. would this pass code? Blue box is circuit, top receptacle is solar power, bottom receptacle is live grid AC.

P.S. - since this photo was taken, I've labeled everything very clearly.

Interested in what you think?

 

[wade0000]

??? <crickets chirping> LOL

 

[Zil]

Yes that would violate any code anywhere in the whole of the USA and Canada. As well as Mexico if anyone checked. As soon as you mess with mains supply you better know what you are doing. Stop now while you are alive.

 

[wade0000]

Curious: What is specifically unsafe about plugging in an otherwise dead circuit into either a solar or a grid receptacle?

 

[kampfitt]

Nothing wrong with that setup. As long as the 2 power sources are separate no code problems, just don't overload the cord or rec. ratings

 

[Rider]

Another forumite did something similar, it would be worth your time to read the thread.

It is easy and inexpensive to make home wiring into extension cords! Is this code compliant?

I have been using what is shown in the pictures for 10 years. After spending time online watching people install expensive critical load panels and dangerous back-feed systems I wonder why more people don't take this approach? For those interested in more details, read on. For others, I am...

diysolarforum.com

 

[Zil]

If plugging different devices into one or the other outlets, no problem. What I see is using a plug-in cord that is attached to the room circuitry. Just another point to overload and warm things up. I guess it is a step better than a cord with a double end male plugs.

 

[wade0000]

Got you! I agree. Just everything is breakered at 15A as well as the plugin cord.

Thanks!

 

[Hedges]

Everything shown would work fine, of course.
Only funny is having a power cord feed a circuit that has Romex stapled to the studs. If it only went to extension cords (personal property not improvements to real property) then fine.

If you got a UL listed box with recessed male plug, like for a generator, then a circuit running off that would be to code.
You could run an extension cord to it from a generator. Or from an outlet fed by utility. Or from inverter.

To make it look normal so it doesn't raise eyebrows, put in a generator interlock with that recessed plug.
Only other issue is if you mount PV and inverter on building - technically that should be to code.

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