3 Reasons for Using a Transfer Switch with Your Generator

While automatic transfer switches are most often used with standby generators, they can also be used with portable generators that have electric starters. Another option, if a portable generator is being used for backup power, is to install a manual transfer switch.

Whether you have a standby or a portable generator, there are several reasons to incorporate a transfer switch. Here are three of the big ones:

1) A transfer switch eliminates the need for numerous extension cords – Rather than running extension cords through the house, a transfer switch allows for appliances to be powered by the home’s circuitry.

2) You can power up your hard wired items – Furnaces, air conditioners, lighting and other appliances in many cases cannot be hooked up to a generator with an extension cord. They can be powered through the home’s circuitry if a transfer switch is in place.

3) Using a transfer switch is only way to safely connect your generator directly to the circuits in the home – Transfer switches effectively separate generated power from electricity coming from the main. This prevents back-feeding, which can occur when power is returned and the excess electricity coming from the generator is transmitted back to the power lines. Back-feeding can both start fires and cause severe injury via electrocution of people working on power lines.

While having a generator will allow you many benefits during an outage, installing a transfer switch can add an extra layer of convenience as well. The safety of transfer switches is another benefit, the value of which is impossible to calculate.

A Comparison of Generac Portable and Stand-By Generators

Unfortunately, power outages are becoming more commonplace and longer in duration with effects ranging from minor inconvenience to major life events. This has put a new focus on Generac power generators due to their ability to replace normal power in the home to keep essential appliances and other electrical equipment going.

Among the different types of home generators, portable generators are considered to be the most common. This is due to their economics in terms of expense and their multiple uses including camping, RV trips, and providing power for outdoor events. The freedom provided by Generac generators allows for a wide variety of activities that combine both independence and convenience. The versatility also means that a Generac generator can be used year-round for purposes beyond powering a home in the event of an outage.

Generac generators come with a 120-volt outlet, much like those found in the typical household. This convenient feature makes it much simpler to connect appliances and other equipment into a transfer switch which then allows the direct use of electrical outlet in the home.

Compared to stand-by home generators, portable have advantages and disadvantages. Some of the previously mentioned advantages of portable generators are their versatility, economical nature and light weight. Standby generators have the advantage of being able to power an entire home with constant power due the ability to connect them with gas lines outside the home. This can be a huge benefit if an outage is long lasting. These systems can also be configured with an automatic switch to turn on the generator once an outage is detected.

Portable generators, on the other hand, may need to be moved in to place to generate power and require refueling during long outages. They can then be started manually or automatically depending on the configuration. Manual starting can be done either with an electric push button or with a pull cord similar to that of a lawn mower. Portables can be equipped with a transfer or auto-start switch which must be wired directly to the home’s existing electric system. This feature starts up the Generac generator within a few seconds of normal power going out.

The decision between a portable generator and a stand-by really depends on a long list of the needs of the person and intended uses of the generator. Generac dealers have the knowledge and experience to help you find the right generator whether it’s a portable or a stand-by.

To see which type of generator will work best for you, visit Generators For Sale or call (877) 837 2648.