In the state of Florida many homeowners with install back-up generators to provide power during time of intense storms and hurricanes. As many people will install back-up generators many neglect installing a transfer switch. A transfer switch make connecting the generator to the home much more easier as well as safer. Burley Electrical Services will like to explain how the transfer switch works to help to provide safe and stable power to the home during a time of need.
How Does a Transfer Switch Work?
A transfer switch is an additional electrical device that is installed next to the home’s electrical panel. The transfer switch directly connects to the circuit in the electrical panel that you wish the generator to provide power to. The transfer switch help make it much easier and safer to transmit power to the home and the desired areas. Without the transfer switch essentially you will need to run extension cords from the generator to each areas you want power. Manual transfer switches require someone to be on-site to turn the generator on and off as needed. Automatic transfer switches (ATS) automatically transfer the power to the generator in the event of a power outage.
How to Hook Up a Portable Generator to a House
When you wish to connect a generator to the home directly the National Electric Code requires a transfer switch to be installed. Stand alone generator don’t however they can be a bit more dangerous. Another function of the transfer switch is to help improve safety. One of two situation can occur that can be potentially dangerous. If using a stand alone generator if lightening sticks a power line and surge through the home the power from the lightening and generator combine can cause a fire. Another scenario is when power is restore often a mild power surge occurs. Again with generator running it can cause damages to the circuits lines, appliances, and or the generator. The transfer switch can detect additional power coming and switches of the flow from the generator to prevent fires and other damages.
Manual VS Automatic Transfer Switches
Transfer switches also make supplying power to the home mush more easier and make the generator more useful. However, there are different types or model of transfer switches the homeowner can invest in. The two basic types of transfer switches are manual and automatic or also known as universal transfer switch. A manual transfer switch still connects directly into the circuit panel and the desire circuits. But the homeowner will have manually turn on and off the circuits when the power is lost. Manual are far less expensive but are less convenient. Most manual models can connect up to 16 circuits or less depending on the model. An automatic transfer switch will immediately turn on the flow of power from the generator when the power is lost. Some automatic transfer switches are also programmable meaning you can have energy flow to certain circuit at certain time. This helps to conserve power from the generator and get more power longer.
Electrical Inspections, Fixture Installations & More in Imperial Point, Pompano Beach, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Parkland, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Their are many aspects to back-up generators however, the transfer switch is essential when connecting to the generator to the home. Transfer switch can help provide more efficient and stable power and well as improve safety. If your considering installing a generator or have a generator and want to accompany it with a transfer switch contact Burley Electrical Services for today.
