Generator use with low amp hookup

[chris kirts]

Recently I was in a park with a 30 amp hookup that had a bad breaker. Even my toaster would trip it. I'd like to know if I can run my generator to supplement the shore power hookup? or does running the generator switch off the shore power so that I"m running strictly on the generator?

I have a 2003 FDTS40.

[BigSkyBob]

Chris, when you run your generator the transfer switch connects that to your coach and disconnects the shore power feed. This is a safety factor that prevents the generator from sending current down the line that could injure a lineman working on the line.

[JLMunsil]

I think shore power is the priority. You have to unplug it to get the transfer switch to shift to the generator to power the coach.

[Wil Rathke]

I believe that the transfer switch gives priority to the generator. I can leave mine pluged in and the generator will take the load. You might check the manuel for the transfer switch.

[Dave Fernandez]

AutomaticTransfer switches are designed to allow only one set of relays to be closed at a time and allow power into the coach. One set of relays will be normally closed usually from shore power and the other will be normally open. When the transfer switch senses power from the generator it will open the shore power relay and close the generator power relay to allow (Transfer) power from the generator so it will power the electrical needs of coach and stop the shore power from entering the coach. When the generator loses power the transfer switch will reset the relays to factory specs and transfer the power back to shore power. Hence the name transfer switch.

They also use automatic transfer switches in residences and commercial buildings which have generators as back up power in case of a power failure. They are more sophisticated and will start the generator when there is a power failure and run until power is restored.