WHAT IS A TRANSFER SWITCH?

Transfer switch is an electrical switch that switches a load between two sources. Some transfer switches are manual, in that an operator affects the transfer by throwing a switch, while others are automatic and trigger when they sense one of the sources has lost or gained power.

What  Kind of Generators Need A Transfer Switch?

Standby generators for homes and businesses always need one. Since they are always waiting for when the power goes down, it is important to have this extra piece of equipment to keep the power flowing without downtime.

However, portable generators do not strictly need a transfer switch, but it is usually a good idea. The biggest benefit of having a transfer switch in a residential setting is that you gain the ability to power things up via your circuit breaker panel instead of having to use extension cords. This includes hardwired devices, such as your dishwasher, hot water heater, air conditioning, and ceiling fans. All you have to do is plug the portable generator into the transfer switch and you are good to go! 

Is A Transfer Switch Required?

If your generator is above 5,000 watts, you will always need a transfer switch for safety reasons and ease of use. This is important to remember, as the level of power being produced requires the use of a regulator to help keep surges and back feeding the grid from happening.

But what about legally? This is one of those questions that depends on the area in which you want to keep a backup generator. Some jurisdictions make it a requirement, while others just strongly suggest you have one. And yet others only make it mandatory for standby generators.

If you are unsure whether your local government requires a transfer switch, talk to the building code enforcement office. From there, they should be able to advise what types of generators need transfer switches and which ones do not.

Learn more on Where to buy Power generator

Risks of Not Using A Transfer Switch

There are numerous risks associated with not using a transfer switch that go beyond simple convenience. In some cases, going without a transfer switch can jeopardize the safety of your family or even workers employed by the electric company.

The main scenario where this becomes a problem is referred to as back-feeding the grid. This means that when you are using your generator without a proper transfer switch and the main power source comes on, there are then two currents feeding your home. This surge can cause problems in the line, which may put utility workers at risk. It can also cause fires in your home or business, and that’s why having a transfer switch is so important.

Now, let us be clear that we are specifically talking about standby generators that are wired to your panel in your home or office. If you are using a portable generator and just plugging in a few lamps or other items directly into the generator, this is not deemed a problem.

How Transfer Switches Work

Automatic and manual switches work in different ways.

Automatic Switch

Both firms and homeowners must first determine the circuits that they would like to power in the event of an outage. An automatic transfer switch provides an automated way of switching the power source from the main source to generator supply. Automatic switches can sense whether there has been an interruption in power supply and switch to generator power mode in under a second. Although the speed of transfer isn’t always critical in residential settings, some commercial and public sector organizations require the transfer delay to be low enough not to interrupt operations.

Manual Switch

A manual transfer switch performs a similar operation to an automatic except it requires an operator. When the operator flips the switch, it signals to the generator to begin providing energy for the separated circuit. Manual switches, as discussed, make the job of providing backup power much more straightforward, though they may not be as suitable for some time-critical applications as automatic transfer switches.

CONCLUSION

Will you pay the extra expense, or will you stick with a standard generator? To sum up everything, hopefully, you have an idea if you need a transfer switch or not for your home. It basically boils down to if you want to power on larger appliances like furnaces or air conditioners, or if you want things to be easier to get back and running during a power loss. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1 What is an inverter generator?

Inverter generators, like conventional generators, use an alternator to produce AC electricity. However, they also feature a rectifier, which converts AC electricity into DC power. Batteries are used to store DC power. Battery-operated devices are the main use for inverter generators.

Q2 What is the difference between an inverter generator and a regular generator?

Unlike typical generators, which run continuously, inverter generators electronically adjust the engine's rpm to match demand. They are more effective as a result.

Q3 What is the advantage of an inverter generator?

To offer cleaner, safer power for your delicate devices, an inverter generator is a device that inverts energy. Compared to a standard generator, it is quieter, more portable, and uses less energy, although it usually costs more.

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If you are not sure what size of generator you should purchase then I highly recommend you contact GZ Industrial supplies for an informative guide for both procurement and maintenance.