In Montana, winter storms can hit quickly, leaving residents without power for extended periods of time. Having a generator in your home is the best way to ensure your home continues to have the necessary backup power during these winter storms or any time when there is an extended power outage. Not only can you be sure that you will have power in an emergency situation, but you can also increase the value of your home and save on insurance prices if you have a generator at your home.
While having a generator in our home can be a huge benefit, most times, you will not need to use the generator or have it turned on. That is where a generator transfer switch comes in handy. This small piece of equipment will make your generator easy to use and safe for everyone in the house, no matter what you use the generator for.
About Generator Transfer Switches
What is a generator transfer switch?
A generator transfer switch is an electrical device that transfers power from the main circuit breaker on your service panel to your generator so the generator can power the appliances in your home.
How does a generator transfer switch work?
There are two types of generator transfer switches. The first is an automatic transfer switch, which transfers power from the home service panel to the back feed breaker or the generator panel automatically when the service panel loses power. The second is a manual transfer switch, which a homeowner must manually flip when power is lost in the home to transfer the power source from the service panel to the generator power.
What is a generator transfer switch used for?
A generator transfer switch may be one extra piece of equipment, but it is important to have to avoid going without power for any period of time. This is especially true for homes that may always require power, such as those that house medical equipment for the residents or refrigerators that the homeowners need to be constantly running for any number of reasons.
An automatic generator transfer switch will ensure that power is flowing without any downtime. While portable generators do not strictly need a transfer switch, it is usually a good idea. Having a power transfer switch means that you gain the ability to power items in your home through your circuit breaker panel, instead of having to use an extension cord.
In addition to convenience, if your generator is more than 5,000 watts, you need a transfer switch for safety, as well as ease of use.
What are the risks of not having a generator transfer switch?
While one of the main reasons that people have generator transfer switches is for convenience, having a generator transfer switch is also safer for the equipment and the people living in the home. The main issue is back feeding the grid; if the power comes back on while you are using a generator without a transfer switch, there are two currents feeding your home. This surge can cause problems in the line, which could result in unsafe scenarios for power utility workers, as well as fires in the residence.
How do I get a generator transfer switch?
If you are ready to install a generator transfer switch, it is best to contact a professional electrician to complete the job. As the switch must be installed on your electrical panel box, incorrectly installing the switch could lead to power currents or risk of fire.
Have questions about your generator? Contact Central MT!
To learn more about installing a generator transfer switch, or to book an appointment, contact the team at Central Heating. Our experienced staff has all the knowledge needed to make sure your generator is working properly and in great condition. Give us a call!
