The ONE PLUGSM Program FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The One PlugSM Program Device

Can you tell me about the One Plug program?
One Plug is a program that includes a meter-based transfer switch that is installed between the meter enclosure and the electric meter and makes powering appliances through your portable generator quick, easy and convenient. Your portable generator is easily connected to the One Plug program device through a special cable set that is provided (a unique cable that has two connectors; one connects to the generator and the other connects to the One Plug program device). There is no need to rewire your home. You can simply turn off your appliances on your breaker panel, plug your generator into the device, start your generator and turn on appliances located in any part of the home from your breaker panel. You get all of this without the use of extension cords.

And since the One Plug program device uses your existing breaker panel, you can operate virtually any electric load/appliance in your home, up to the capacity of the One Plug program device.

What is the capacity of the One Plug program device?
The One Plug program device is rated for 7.2 kW or 7,200 watts. It works with most portable generators; however, you can not exceed 7,200 watts of capacity regardless of the size of your generator. The device will automatically shut off when you exceed 7,200 watts of capacity.

Can the One Plug program device power my entire house?
The One Plug program device allows you to access electricity throughout your entire home. However the usage can not exceed 7,200 watts, which is the capacity of the device. For example, your central A/C may not be powered using this device because the capacity is likely too great. However, you can power multiple appliances, like your refrigerator, fans, TV and even a water heater with the One Plug program device.

Why do only houses that are 3,500 square feet or less qualify for the One Plug program?
There is a technical reason for this. The One Plug program device is installed on the metercan. It is designed to work only with a 200 amp metercan. The bigger the house the bigger the size of the metercan. Houses that are 3,500 square feet or more have metercans that are larger than 200 amps, therefore the One Plug program device cannot work on homes of this size.

Can I change my metercan if my house is 3,500 square feet or larger?
No, you have the proper size metercan needed for a home your size.

Can I use the One Plug program device if I have fuses instead of circuit breakers?
No, this device will not work with fuse boxes. You will need a circuit breaker panel.

Can I use the One Plug program device if my circuit breaker panel does not have a main switch in it?
Yes, as long as you have circuit breakers that you can turn on and off, your panel will work with this device.

How does the program/device work? How do I use this?
Should the power go off, you won’t have to unplug appliances to connect them to extension cords. You won’t even need extension cords because the One Plug program device gives you a direct connection to your portable generator – outside at your meter – and the power flows through your central circuit breaker panel. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: If there’s a power outage, turn off all the switches on your circuit breaker panel.
Step 2: Connect your portable generator to the One Plug program device using the supplied 20-foot quick-connect cable (40-foot cable is optional).
Step 3: Start your generator, then select the appliances to receive power by turning on the switches on your circuit breaker panel (up to 7,200 watts, the capacity of the device). You can choose or change which appliances receive power quickly and easily just by turning circuit breaker switches on and off.

NOTE: Some switches on your circuit breaker panel will have multiple appliances assigned to them; simply unplug any appliances in that room you don’t plan to use and then turn that circuit switch to on.

How large is the One Plug program device that is attached to the meter?
6 inches by 5 inches

Who produces the One Plug program device?
The One Plug program device is produced by Global Power Products and is UL listed. Global Power Products has given FPL Energy Services exclusive rights to distribute this product within specific areas in the FPL service territory. We have worked very closely with FPL and have approval to install these devices on the FPL meters within the designated areas. All of our contractors are FPL-authorized contractors and we ensure they follow very strict guidelines.

What makes the device safe?

  • It is UL listed.
  • There is no need for extension cords.
  • A a heavy-duty, 10-gauge, outdoor-rated cable built specifically for this device that ensures maximum power transfer from the generator to your home is included.

A 20-foot cable won’t reach? Do you have a longer cable available?
Yes, a 40-foot cable is available for an additional $40.

Is there over-current protection on the One Plug program device?
Yes.

What is over-current protection?
The One Plug program device is equipped with a lockout circuit that prevents transfer to generator power if the load of the home exceeds 30 amps. The yellow status light will be illuminated if the load exceeds 30 amps.

Can I use the One Plug program device during inclement weather?
Yes. The One Plug program device is completely sealed inside the meter socket and does not represent a hazard; however, generators should not be operated during rain unless they are protected from the elements. Please consult your generator manufacturer, distributor and/or owner’s manual for instructions on the safe operation of your generator.

What maintenance is required for the One Plug program device?
There is no regular maintenance required for the One Plug program device. However, you can always tell the status of the device when it is connected by looking at the indicator lights located on the underside. Refer to your user’s manual for easy location.

How is the One Plug program device different from a transfer switch?
This program offers several advantages over traditional transfer switches: The One Plug program device is installed outside your home at the electric meter in less than 30 minutes. Installation of a transfer switch can take about two to three hours and requires re-wiring your home’s electrical system.

With the One Plug program device, you have the flexibility of selecting the appliances you want to run from your home’s breaker panel, up to the capacity of your generator. Most basic transfer switches have six to eight hard-wired circuits. This limits the number of circuits you can connect to the transfer switch.

Since the One Plug program device uses your existing breaker panel, you can run any large 120-volt or 240-volt appliance up to your generator’s capacity. Your well pump, water heater, electric range and clothes dryer are just some of the appliances that can be run on a rotation basis with this program. Many transfer switches and subpanels have only one or two 240-volt circuits rated at 10 amps or 20-amps. Heavier loads, such as hot water heaters and electric ranges, may not be accommodated by these transfer switches and subpanels.

What is a power cable?
A power cable consists of:

  • A standard connector that will attach to the One Plug program device. 
  • A four-wire, 10-gauge cable that is insulated, heavy duty, outdoor rated, water-resistant and an appropriate National Electric Manufacturing Association (NEMA) connector for your generator.

Your generator may have a 20-amp or 30-amp, 120/240-volt output that will require a 20-amp or 30-amp NEMA connector. The length of the power cord should be as close to the actual measured distance from the meter to the generator as possible in order to maintain your generator’s power quality.

Why do I need a power cable?
A power cable is required in order to connect your generator to the One Plug program device. The One Plug program includes the cable, so you do not have to purchase it separately.

 

FPL-related Inquiries

Is this approved by FPL?
Yes, the One Plug program device is approved by FPL to be located on its meters within Broward and Miami-Dade counties.

Is this FPL that’s offering the product?
FPL Energy Services is offering the product. We are a subsidiary of the parent company, FPL Group, and an affiliate of Florida Power & Light Company (the utility). The electricians who install the One Plug program device are FPL-authorized contractors as well.


Installation

How long will the installation take?
Installation takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

Is there a guarantee on the installation?
Yes. There is a two-year warranty on parts and labor.

How quickly will the device be installed after I place an order?
An authorized contractor will contact you within five days to schedule an appointment. In most cases, a contractor will be there within two weeks of your order.

Once I order the One Plug program device what happens next?

  1. Once your order is placed, your credit card will be charged for the full amount of purchase.
  2. You will receive a paid invoice in two to three days by mail. You will have three days to read the Terms & Conditions and respond back to us if you have any questions or concerns.
  3. The contractor will contact you to schedule an appointment and can usually install the One Plug program device one to three weeks from the date you place the order.
  4. The contractor will leave your installation guide and operators manual with you after the installation.

Do I have to be home when the contractor comes?
Yes, so he or she can access your main panel.

Can I order the One Plug program device from you and install it myself?
No.  FPL Energy Services offers the One Plug program as a complete solution for customers who want a quick, simple and convenient way to power their home during an outage. The One Plug program device and installation are not sold separately. We've taken care of this to make it simpler for you. Also, there are special requirements that FPL provides on installing the One Plug program device on its meters and we have professional, licensed contractors performing the installations. All contractors are authorized by FPL.


Removal, Repair or Replacement

What happens if I want the One Plug program device removed from my home?
To remove the One Plug program device, please call 1-877-ONE-PLUG (1-877-663-7584) so we can arrange for an authorized contractor to come to your home. Only contractors authorized by the electric utility or licensed electricians may have access to the device. Please do not, under any conditions, attempt to remove the device yourself as this is unsafe and may void the warranty.

If I have the One Plug program device removed and I move to another county where One Plug is not offered, will I be able to have it installed in that county?
One Plug is approved by FPL to be installed on its meters in only Maimi-Dade and Broward counties. There are no current plans to expand to additional counties. 

If you move into a county with a different utility company, you will need to contact that utility company to determine if One Plug can be installed.

What is your cancellation policy? How long does it take to get my money back?
You can cancel your purchase before the One Plug program device is installed. Just call 1-877-ONE-PLUG (1-877-663-7584) and ask to cancel the purchase. You will receive a full refund on your credit card within two to five days from the date that you called to cancel.

If you cancel after the One Plug program device is installed you will have to pay a removal and restocking fee of $350. The difference owed to you will be refunded to your credit card within two to five days from the date that you called to cancel.

What if I need to have the One Plug program device repaired or replaced?
To repair or replace the One Plug program device, please call 1-877-ONE-PLUG (1-877-663-7584) so we can arrange for an authorized contractor to come to your home. Only contractors authorized by FPL or licensed electricians may have access to the device. Please do not, under any conditions, attempt to repair or replace the device yourself as this may void the warranty.


Power

When the power comes back on does it still run from the generator or does it switch back to the utility grid?
When the power comes back on it will not switch back to the utility lines until the generator is turned off or runs out of gas.

How will I know when the power is back on?
There are three indicator lights on the One Plug program device: green, yellow and red.

  1. Green indicates utility power is back on.
  2. Yellow indicates the household load has exceeded the capacity of the device and is greater than 30 amps.
  3. Red indicates an abnormal condition exists and you should have the unit serviced immediately.

Why does the disk in the meter still turn when the generator is running?
The disk in the meter should not be turning. If the disk is moving, you have not correctly connected the cable to the meter and the generator. To plug the cable into the One Plug program device, please do the following:

  1. Locate the opening on the inside ring on the power cable connector.
  2. Align the ring opening on the cable between the two silver dots on the front of the device’s receptacle.
  3. Insert the connector. There will be a snapping sound when the connector locks in place.

Does my utility meter continue to run when using the One Plug program device with my generator?
No, your utility meter will only run when the utility is providing electric power to your home. When using the One Plug program device with your portable generator, you are automatically disconnected from the utility power supply and will not reconnect until you turn off your generator.

 

Transfer Switch

I already have a transfer switch. How does One Plug work with it?
The One Plug program device works like most transfer switches. With a transfer switch, you are using the circuit breaker panel or a subpanel to select appliances during an outage, however, the subpanel usually has the appliances preselected. With One Plug, you can power virtually any appliance in your home, up to the capacity of the device. If you already have a transfer switch installed, there is probably no reason to purchase One Plug.


Generator

Can One Plug work with any size generator?
This One Plug program device can work with any size portable generator, however, you are limited to 7,200 watts of connected capacity since the device does not support a larger load.

What is the maximum wattage that my generator can be in order to work with the One Plug program device?
Maximum wattage through the One Plug program device is 7,200 watts (7.2 kW), regardless of the output of your generator.

How do I determine what receptacle I have on my generator?
You can view the pictures of the approved receptacles on the One Plug program Web page under Generator Compatibility. If one of the two receptacles shown is the same as the receptacle on your generator, then your generator is compatible with One Plug.

How do I find out what size generator I have?
You can look on the box that your generator came in or look directly on the generator. We have provided a list under Generator Compatibility on the One Plug program Web page that provide some specific requirements.

Do I need a generator in order to use the One Plug program device?
Yes. The One Plug program device enables you to connect your portable generator directly to your home’s internal wiring system. During a power outage, your generator becomes your source of emergency backup power. The One Plug program includes a device that is designed as an alternative to expensive transfer switches and hazardous extension cords.

What happens if the generator gets overloaded?
The One Plug program device is equipped with a lockout circuit that prevents transfer to generator power if the connected load on the home exceeds 30 amps. The yellow status light will be illuminated if the load exceeds 30 amps. If this occurs, disconnect the generator and turn off all of the circuit breakers in the house. Then reconnect the generator and begin closing only the circuit breakers you need up to 30 amps.

Where should the generator be operated?
Remember, generator exhaust gases contain deadly carbon monoxide. The generator should never be operated inside; this includes basements, crawl spaces and/or attached garages. You should also be careful to keep the generator away from open windows and doors. Please consult your generator owner’s manual for complete instructions on the safe location for and operation of your generator.

What if my generator connector does not have a straight or locking 14-20 or 14-30 connector?
Some generators are fitted with connectors that are not 14-20 or 14-30. Your generator cannot be connected to the One Plug program device if it does not have the appropriate connector. Please see Generator Compatibility on the One Plug program Web page.


Device is: Damaged – Stolen – Not working

The contractor that came out said I couldn’t have the One Plug program device installed because my meter can is not in good condition; what do I need to do?
You will need to contact an electrician and have him assess the meter can and make any necessary repairs. After the metercan is repaired, the One Plug program device can be safely installed.

What happens if the One Plug program device breaks?
The One Plug program offers a two-year parts and labor warranty on the One Plug program device. If the One Plug program device breaks, simply call 1-877-ONE-PLUG (1-877-663-7584) and someone will assist you.

What if the One Plug program device is damaged by a storm?
This One Plug program device does not come with an insurance warranty, so you are responsible if it is damaged during a storm. The One Plug program device does come with a two-year labor and parts warranty.

Who is responsible if someone steals the One Plug program device?
This One Plug program device does not come with an insurance warranty, so you are responsible if someone steals it. The One Plug program device does come with a two-year labor and parts warranty.

What if the One Plug program device doesn’t work and my power is out? Will someone come out to help me?
First call FPL to report your power outage. Next, check the indicator lights on the device. If the device is still not working, call 1-877-ONE-PLUG to report your problem.

Is there any potential for damage to my appliances?
The One Plug program device is designed to function as an interconnection device and serves to connect your generator to your home. There is no risk of damage to your appliances created by the One Plug program device.


Qualification

I could not find my meter number? Can I still enroll in the One Plug program?
For your convenience and in order to make sure your meter is compatible with the One Plug program device, we need to have the meter number. Please see the Qualification Check on the One Plug program Web page.

Can I get the One Plug program device if am enrolled in FPL Energy Services’ SurgeShield program?
Yes, when you call to order One Plug please inform the representative that you have SurgeShield.

Can I get the One Plug program device if I have On Call?
Yes, when you call to order One Plug please inform the representative that you have On Call.

What if I decide I don’t want to participate in the One Plug program after the One Plug program device is installed?
Once the One Plug program device is installed, the fee is nonrefundable. You will retain ownership of the One Plug program device.

Is the program available to people who own townhomes?
In most cases, townhome meters are located together, which could cause installation and safety issues. Townhomes can be considered as a compatible installation if the location provides the ability to have adequate distance from the One Plug program device that is on the meter to the generator. Your safety is our greatest concern, so please make sure you will be able to have the generator in a safe location, away from windows and doors.

Is the program available to people who own condos?
Condominiums are not an appropriate application since the meters are located in meter rooms and do not provide adequate space for the installation or the safe use of the generator.

Why do only houses that are 3,500 square feet or less qualify for the One Plug program?
There is a technical reason for this: The One Plug device is installed on the metercan. It is designed to work only with a 200-amp metercan. The bigger the house the bigger the size of the metercan. Houses that are 3,500 square feet or more have metercans that are larger than 200 amps; therefore the One Plug device cannot work on homes of this size.

Can I change my metercan if my house is 3,500 square feet or larger?
No, you have the proper size metercan needed for a home your size.

Can I use the One Plug program device if I have fuses instead of circuit breakers?
No, this device will not work with fuse boxes. You will need a circuit breaker panel.

 

Future Plans for One Plug

Will the capacity of One Plug be increased in the future?
At this time, we do not have any higher-capacity devices we can offer. As we receive feedback from customers like you, we will consider program changes and upgrades. Most people tend to have generators that are 8 kW or less, which works well with this device. Also, since outages tend to be a temporary situation, customers have told us that they are just looking to manage a few key things like their refrigerators, freezers, fans and lights.

Will the type of receptacle the One Plug device works with include more receptacles in the future?
At this time we do not plan to offer any upgrades. Research has shown that the majority of generators tend to have one of the two receptacles we offer.

 


Payment Options

Can I pay in installments?
No. Unfortunately, we do not offer an installment payment option.

Can you place this on my FPL bill?
No. Unfortunately, this is a one-time purchase that cannot be placed on your FPL bill.

Can I pay with a check?
No. Unfortunately, we don’t currently accept checks. We only accept American Express®, Visa®, MasterCard® and Discover®.

Can I pay with a debit card?
Yes. You may pay with a Visa, MasterCard or Discover card.

Does FPL Energy Services offer a lease option for the program?
No. FPL Energy Services does not offer a lease option at this time.


Miscellaneous

Where is this product being offered?
The product is only being offered in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

When will this product be offered in other areas?
After we sell our current inventory, we will discontinue sales of One Plug. However, we will continue to support our existing One Plug customers.

The One Plug program device keeps shutting off. What do I need to do?
First, look at your indicator lights to see if the yellow light is on. If the yellow light is on, you have too many appliances on and are exceeding the capacity of the One Plug program device, which is 30 amps. First disconnect the generator and turn off all the circuit breakers in the house. Then reconnect the generator and turn on only the appliances you need, not to exceed 30 amps.

I can’t get the cable connected to the device. What do I need to do?
To plug the cable into the One Plug program device, please do the following:

  1. Locate the opening on the inside ring on the power cord connector.
  2. Align the ring opening on the cable between the two silver dots on the front of the device’s receptacle.
  3. Insert the connector. There will be a snapping sound when the connector locks in place.

My cable won’t fit into my generator. What do I need to do?
First check the receptacle on your generator. There are only two types of receptacles that work with this product. You can see pictures of these on the One Plug program Web page in the Generator Capacity section. If your generator does not have one of these two receptacles, unfortunately it is not compatible with the One Plug program device.