Generator Transfer Switch – Considerations Before Buying
The purpose of the generator transfer switch is to start up the generator when there is a utility power failure or interruption for some reason. Once the generator has started to produce full power, in approximately 5 to 10 seconds, the transfer switch will disconnect the load from the utility supply and connect it to the generator. This ensures that the load gets it’s power source as does not stop running or is down for a short period of time maximum.
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It is basically the back up detector system. It even works in the opposite direction. Once the utility power is re-established the generator transfer switch will switch the load back to the utility source and power off the generator. Lastly, the generator transfer switch, when it is disconnected goes through a process of cooling down after which it automatically shuts off.
Types of Generator Transfer Switch
There are different types of generator transfer switches, these are :
- Momentary closed transition,
- Transition,
- Bypass isolation.
In the case of a generator transfer switch that is open transition, it is a very simple switch that is also interlocked mechanically and disconnects the load from one type of power and connects to the other.
On the other hand, the closed transition generator transfer switch helps in eliminating any power interruption however momentary it is and keeps the two sources synchronized through transference of loads using an arrangement of overlapping contacts.
The third type or the momentary closed transition generator transfer switch performs the function of switching the power in as little as one hundred milliseconds and there is also no need for utility protective relaying.
In terms of brand names, you should look for transfer switches made by Caterpillar, MGE, ASCO, Generac and Hubble. They have a solid background in the industry and product quality products
Although there are a variety of generators on the market, you need to ensure that the generator you purchase has a generator transfer switch which suits your purposes. It should be able to turn your home or office electrical current from utility power even before the generator switches on and which in turn ensures that the electrical current from generator does not reverse into the utility lines. This would obviously cause problems and would make your home unsafe.
In fact, it is illegal to connect the generator directly into electrical wiring points unless a generator transfer switch is present since that would be dangerous due to the possibility of backfeeding or interconnection which as explained is supplying the electricity from the wiring system back into the utility power.
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