Automatic and Manual Generator Transfer Switches

First off: what exactly is a generator transfer switch? Well, in easy terms it's a device that's lets you change a home's power source from your usual utility lines to a portable generator and once the power outage has passed, back to the main line again. That's why it's actually illegal to transfer power between different powers sources that has a main utility line without a generator transfer switch because of the inherent danger it can pose the utilities' company workers.

Electric transfer switches for home generators have typically 3 settings options. When the pweor supply is switched from LINE to GEN it still passes thorugh the OFF psostion. That way arcing - short circuits in other words - will be prevented. If your house needs more power than the rating of your genset allows - additional subpanel may be installed. Subsequently that additonal distribution channel needs to be wired to the transfer switch.

Reliance Loadside Generator Transfer Switch

The safe, code-approved way to provide emergency power to your home or business during a power outage. The proper connection between a portable generator and selected circuits in a load center allows the user to efficiently and easily operate appliances such as a furnace, refrigerator, sump pump, TV, well pump, lights and more. Power can be manually transferred for each appliance independently at users choice without danger of backfeeding the electrical utility.
The ZTG transfer switch is designed for residential and light commercial standby generator applications, incorporating a double-throw, mechanically interlocked contactor mechanism. ZTG MX150 microprocessor panels – Undervoltage sensing – time delay engine start

Generac HTS Transfer Switches

Generac transfer switch is designed for simple monitoring, operation and maintenance, and ensures superior performance. U.S.A. 277/480 Volt, 3-phase, NEMA 1. Part of an integrated system and operates only with Generac commercial generators with the H100 controller (70-150kW). All switch components are front adjustable and removable for programming and servicing

There are 3 different types of transfer switches available.

Manual Mode:

These models don't offer monitoring voltage levels and require that a person to switch the power sources by hand after the generator is started. Once the main line is working again the power has to be switched back by hand as well.

Automatic Switches:

These transfer switches will monitor the level of power and the transfer between the sources. They can also power up the generator automatically. They will keep monitoring the voltage and should they determine that the main line has become stable again it will switch the power back from the portable generator to the main power line.

Combination Transfer Switches:

There are electrical transfer switches that offer both automatic and manual controls to switch power between a main utility line and a portable generator. This combination typically maintains processes that have been designated as critical on an automatic transfer switch. All other electrical transfers are accomplished with a manual switch.These switches offer both manual and automatic controls to switch power if necessary.You can designate certain areas or functions that need to be powered in case of an outage – and other , non essential, function will have to be switched on manually.

Popular transfer switch model for indoor and outdoor use:

Reliance Controls 30508B Pro/Tran 8-Circuit 30 Amp Generator Transfer Switch
  • * Power can be manually transferred for each appliance independently at user's choice without danger of back feeding the electrical utility.
  • * Internal wiring compartment allows for optional hardwiring to remote power inlet boxes. Dual wattmeter monitor load in generator
  • * Reliance Generator Transfer Switch – Single Circuit for Outdoors Ideal for control of farm buildings, irrigation systems, community wells, telecommunication substations, traffic signals.
  • * Weather-resistant cabinet is zinc-plated steel with powder-coat finish, gasket lined and lockable (padlock not included). Built-in power inlet can accommodate a generator cord with door closed and locked.
GenTran 301660 30 Amp 6-Circuit Transfer Switch 6 circuits
  • 30 amps, for generators up to 7500 watts. All wires, conduit, fittings and wire connectors included. Copper bus.
  • Expandable to 16 circuits using standard interchangeable type breakers.
  • Reconfigure the circuit breakers to accommodate your needs.
  • Can be surface or flush mounted indoors.
  • Accommodates hardwiring to generator or installed with a plug-in cord connection.