Let's break down why your electrician might have wired the second heat pump directly from the meter combo and how you can get it onto generator power.

Likely Reasons for Wiring Directly from the Meter Combo



Lack of Space in the Load Center/Subpanel

This is the most probable reason. Heat pumps, especially larger ones, require a dedicated 2-pole breaker, often 30-60 amps. Your main panel may have simply been full. Also the sub panel.

Load Calculation Limits

Your electrician had to perform a "load calculation" to ensure your electrical service (200 amp) could handle all the appliances and equipment in your home, including the original heat pump. Adding another large heat pump could have pushed the load calculation close to or over the 200 amp limit. If your original heat pump was already close to the limit, he or she may have decided not to add the 2nd heat pump to the panel to stay under the safe limit.

Easier Installation (Less Likely)

Running wires directly from the meter combo might have been physically easier if the heat pump was located close to it. However, this is less likely than the other reasons, as it's generally better practice to have all circuits run through a panel for proper overcurrent protection.

Why Running Directly from the Meter Combo is Problematic for Generator Backup



No Generator Power

Obviously, since it's not connected to a panel that's backed up by your generator, the heat pump won't function during an outage.

Complicates System

It's less clean and more difficult to manage. All your circuits should really run from panels so you know they are safe and you can control them.

How to Get the Heat Pump on Generator Power

Here are a few options, and each has potential pros and cons:1.

Add a Subpanel Dedicated to the Heat Pump(s)



How it works

Install a small subpanel (e.g., 60-100 amps) specifically for the second heat pump and potentially the first if that helps with load calculations. This subpanel would be fed from a breaker in your main panel. You then move the heat pump's wiring from the meter combo to this new subpanel. Then your generator's transfer switch would need to be reconfigured to make sure the generator can power it.

Pros

Clean, dedicated, easier to manage the heat pump's load.

Cons

Requires new panel, reconfiguring of generator transfer switch, and more wiring.2.

Replace Main Load Center with Larger Panel



How it works

The original panel may be too small or too full to add the heat pump. Replacing the main panel with a larger panel with more breaker spaces allows for the heat pump to be tied into the main panel and be powered by the generator. The sub panel and critical load breakers would be added to the new panel as well.

Pros

The generator can handle the full panel load.

Cons

More expensive due to labor.

Important Considerations



Load Calculation is Crucial



Before doing ANYTHING, have a qualified electrician perform a load calculation for your home. They need to factor in everything: existing appliances, lighting, outlets, and both heat pumps. This calculation will determine if your 200 amp service is sufficient and whether your generator can handle the additional load. Overloading your service or generator is dangerous and can cause fires. Generator Capacity

Make sure your generator is large enough to handle the added load of the second heat pump. Heat pumps have a high starting current, which can strain a generator. Also consider the size of the AC unit.

Professional Electrician

This project must be done by a licensed and experienced electrician. Electrical work is dangerous and must comply with local codes.

Permits

In most areas, you'll need a permit for electrical work involving panels and new circuits. Your electrician will handle this.

Steps to Take


Consult with a Qualified Electrician

Get at least two or three quotes and explanations of the options.2.

Load Calculation

Make sure they perform a load calculation.3.

Generator Capacity

Check the size of your generator and compare it to the load calculation.4.

Choose the Best Option

Based on the load calculation, generator capacity, and your budget, choose the best solution.5.

Permits and Installation

Have the electrician obtain the necessary permits and perform the work according to code.

In Summary: The electrician likely wired the second heat pump directly from the meter combo due to space limitations or load calculation concerns. The best way to get it on generator power is to add a dedicated subpanel or replace the main panel, but always* start with a load calculation and ensure your generator is capable of handling the additional load. A qualified electrician is essential for this project. Flag for review