When a power outage hits, having a portable generator provides a sense of security. But a crucial question quickly follows: what is the safest and most effective way to connect it to your home? Many homeowners find themselves weighing expensive, complex transfer switches against risky, non-compliant connection methods. Fortunately, there’s a third option that delivers the best of both worlds: safety and affordability. Interlockkit™ offers an engineered solution that allows you to power your home legally and reliably, without the steep cost.
Debunking the High Cost of Backup Power
A common misconception is that a proper backup power system must cost a fortune. While traditional transfer switches can run into thousands of dollars for parts and installation, they also typically limit you to powering only a handful of pre-selected circuits. This leaves you making tough choices about what stays on and what goes off during an emergency.
Interlockkit™ presents a more practical and cost-effective path. For a fraction of the cost—often allowing a homeowner to get their entire system ready for under $2,000.00—an interlock kit allows you to use your existing electrical panel. This means you can safely power any circuit in your home, providing the flexibility to run your furnace, well pump, refrigerator, or home office as needed. It’s a simple, elegant solution that maximizes the utility of the generator you already own.
Why Safety and Code Compliance are Non-Negotiable
In the rush to restore power, some may consider shortcuts. However, improper generator connections are incredibly dangerous. The primary risk is “back-feeding”—sending electricity from your generator back out through the utility lines. This can create a lethal hazard for utility workers attempting to restore power down the line.
This is why meeting National Electrical Code (NEC) standards is critical. The concept for Interlockkit™ was born from this exact need for safety after Hurricane Isabel in 2003. The goal was to engineer a device that made a safe connection physically impossible to bypass. An interlock kit works by creating a mechanical barrier that prevents the main utility breaker and the generator back-feed breaker from being turned on simultaneously. It’s a simple but foolproof system: power can only come from one source at a time.
To guarantee this level of safety, all Interlockkit™ products are UL-listed and regularly tested by Eurofins – MET Laboratories to ensure they comply with UL 67 standards for panelboards. This certification is a key differentiator from many low-cost competitors whose products may be made from flimsy materials and lack the necessary safety approvals, putting your home and safety at risk.
The Interlockkit™ Difference: Quality Craftsmanship and Unmatched Variety
Not all interlock kits are created equal. Interlockkit™ prides itself on superior build quality. Each kit is laser-cut from durable stainless steel in Richmond, Virginia, ensuring a precise fit and long-lasting performance.
Furthermore, Interlockkit™ offers an unparalleled selection of over 250 different kits, including the versatile Interlock Kit K-1010 for popular Siemens, ITE, and Murray panels. This vast inventory covers panels new and old, and the company even offers custom-built options to guarantee a perfect match for your specific setup. This commitment to variety ensures you get a product designed for your panel, not a generic part that might not fit correctly.
Customer Support at the Core
Navigating the world of electrical panels can be intimidating, but Interlockkit™ makes the process easy. Their customer-centric approach is the cornerstone of their brand. If you’re unsure which kit you need, you can simply text or email a photo of your panel, and their expert team will identify the correct model for you in minutes. With detailed instructions, installation videos, and a team ready to help, you are supported from purchase to installation and beyond.
This dedication to service means they stand behind every product. If a customer orders the wrong kit or their needs change, the company is happy to facilitate exchanges or refunds, ensuring every homeowner has the right equipment to “power through the storm—safely and affordably.”
