Tuesday, September 2, 2014

An Automatic Transfer Switch Can Help You Get the Most Out of Your Backup Generator


A backup generator can be used as a back-up electrical system that operates when power is lost. However, the only way to get the most out of your backup generator is to have an automatic transfer switch installed. The way to best explain how vital the switch can be to the operation of your backup generator, is to describe this switch as the brains. Your back-up generator is basically brain dead if no automatic transfer switch is installed. This means that it won’t know when to start. Having a professional electrician install an automatic transfer switch is important.

Works Like a Thermostat
In basic terms, an automatic transfer switch functions in a similar manner to a thermostat. A thermostat works to monitor the temperature within your home, but an automatic transfer switch works by monitoring the utility power. This means that when you experience power loss or an outage, your switch works automatically to inform your backup generator. Without this switch installed your backup generator when not know when power loss occurs. Getting optimal use out of your backup generator is only possible if this type of switch is installed for utility power monitoring.

How Does It Work?
This type of generator works to back-up your electrical system and will automatically be commanded to power on when power loss occurs. The transfer switch will sense the power outage within seconds and will send a signal that informs the backup generator. This results in the backup generator supplying power to all the circuits. However, once normal power returns the standby generator will be sent another signal from the switch allowing it to return to standby mode. This means that it will simply stay in this mode until another power loss occurs.

Key Signal
The function of the transfer switch is almost as important as the overall function of the standby generator. Your generator will only work at optimal levels if you have this type of switch installed. This means that having a standby generator without an automatic transfer switch is a bit of a waste. When you are looking for the right switch, you can consider style, size and load center capabilities. It is best to consult with your electrician to ensure that you select the best type for installation. Finding a good company is easy.  A quick Google search using something like Electrician Austin is all that is needed to find a list of great companies in your area.


Mr. Electric of Austin
512-402-5354
8868 Research Blvd #405 Austin, TX 78758


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