![]() ![]() In this configuration, the main panel might not have a main breaker and turning off the power requires turning off the disconnect switch. Sometimes this is a fused switch located near the utility meter. The ATS includes a circuit breaker that turns off the utility service to the home.Īll homes are required to have a primary disconnect. A 100-amp main breaker requires at least a 100-amp ATS.īenefits of a Backup Generator Automatic Transfer Switch Service Entrance RatedĪ whole house transfer switch with a Service Entrance (SE) rating means that the ATS may serve as the primary disconnect for the home’s utility service. A main panel with a 200-amp main breaker requires at least a 200-amp whole house transfer switch. The main service panel the ATS supplies determines the switch’s rating. A 100-amp transfer switch cannot work with 200-amp or 150-amp panel. A 200-Amp ATS can work with any panel rated at 200 amps or less, which includes 100-Amp and 150 Amps panels. When utility power is unavailable or unacceptably low, the whole-house transfer switch automatically chooses standby generator power after the generator starts and is ready to accept the load-typically less than 20 seconds after the outage occurs.Īs a rule, the transfer switch current rating in amps must meet or exceed the main breaker rating in amps. The switch makes an intelligent choice about which electric supply to use. When an outage occurs, the ATS disconnects the incoming utility service, then connects the standby generator. Sizing Guide for Home Standby Generators Whole House Transfer SwitchesĪ whole house transfer switch installs between the utility meter and the main service panel. Some indoor installations such as a laundry room require a 3R rating when exposure to condensation or splashing water is possible.Īny type of residential automatic transfer switch may have either a NEMA 1 or NEMA 3R rating. The weatherproof transfer switch is water resistant and suitable for use in a location where it is exposed to rain or snow and is undamaged by ice. The primary function protects against accidental contact with electrical parts.Ī NEMA 3R weatherproof transfer switch allows for either indoor or outdoor installation. The case is not watertight and will not keep the elements out. It is only suitable for use and installation in dry areas, though it will protect against an accidental indirect splash. Standby Generator Buyer’s Guide: What Size Generator Do I Need? Indoor or Outdoor RatedĪ residential automatic transfer switch has a rating for indoor use only, or indoor and outdoor use.Īn ATS with a NEMA 1 rating is for indoor use only. Consider a whole house surge protector to eliminate these damaging spikes and surges. The damage is often gradual until the appliance or device fails. Surges enter your home and cause damage to appliances and electronics. Power Outages and Blackouts go hand in hand with power surges cause by lightning and voltage spikes. Determine your minimum and maximum power needs, then choose a home backup generator and residential automatic transfer switch to meet your needs and your budget. Standby Backup Generator Terms and Concepts To UnderstandĮlectrical power requirements and budget determine the size home generator with automatic transfer switch required. ![]() A service-rated load-center automatic transfer switch takes the place of the main panel and incorporates the main disconnect.The sub-panel and switch are often combined into a single unit. A generator sub-panel switch supplies a sub-panel with a limited number of circuits during an outage.A whole house transfer switch supplies the entire main breaker panel with electrical power during an outage.Three main types of Generator Automatic Transfer Switches are most common in the United States: Budget restraints and possible future needs may add to the uncertainty. There are many configurations possible and making a selection is not always straightforward. Purchasing a generator and ATS together as a combined package is less expensive than ordering them as separate components. Manufacturers often package a home generator with automatic transfer switch. The ATS and the generator work together as a system to automatically supply electricity during a power outage. A Residential Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) makes a permanent connection between a home and a standby generator in a way that protects the home, the generator, neighbors, and utility line workers. ![]()
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