Automatic Transfer Switch

Power when and where you need it with an automatic transfer switch

It is hard to be in an area that often experiences blackouts, power outages, and energy fluctuations, for both households and business enterprises. Power faults can be destructive to appliances, overall productivity, and may possibly cause a fire.

If these things apply to you, you should consider using transfer switches. These devices allow you to switch from a primary power source (usually the main electric line) to a secondary power source (usually a generator). When the power problem is done, the transfer switch then allows the return back to the primary source. Companies and households must take advantage of using these devices.

Transfer switches come in three types: manual, automatic, and a combination of the two. The main difference of these types is, obviously, the need of a human element to do the transferring of the power source. Plus, the cost; automatic transfer switches are much more expensive than manual watch, given the same size and capacity.

An automatic transfer switch continuously monitors the electricity coming in to your house. If there is an interruption in the current, it will transfer the power from the utility station over to power from a generator. When the transfer switch finds a stable level of electricity has been restored through the utility lines, it will then transfer power from the generator and back to the main.

An automatic transfer switch affords the user a safer transfer from primary power source to secondary, and back. Since the transfer needs a shutdown of the main line beforehand to prevent backfeed from happening can happen, that is a disruption in electric flow because power can be sent through the line which should not be receiving any. Backfeeding can cause injury or even death to electric utility workers.

Usually, manual transfer switches have safety for this but the automatic ones do this as part of its mechanism.

Using transfer switches need careful planning. Since generators or any other secondary power source has capacity relative to their size or footprint, only select and critical units (i.e. the refrigerator, lights, air conditioning) are connected to a transfer switch. Installing transfer switches should be done in consultation with licensed electricians.

Here are some advice for people who are planning to have transfer switches.

1.An automatic transfer switch is usually designed for use with a permanently installed standby generator.

2.Purchase transfer switches which allow load shedding and can be set up to prioritize select circuits, such as lights, and heating and cooling units. This feature can also lessen the size and cost of your transfer switch you need, as well as those for the generator.

3.Many websites of manufacturers of generators give basic data and recommendations for using transfer switches. You should let our electrical contractors know of this. Transfer switches must be able to withstand the heat an other physical factors which can affect their performance.

The proper use selection and use of transfer switches can result in a cost effective and very efficient way of using electrical power for any activity you may have.