Reducing Energy Consumption and Other Earth Friendly Tips

3 Tips To Help Improve Your Electrical System With A Transfer Switch

If you want to have backup power or use a renewable energy system for electrical system, transfer switches are an ideal solution. The transfer switch will allow you to easily switch the power from the electrical grid to a generator or battery bank. When choosing an electrical transfer switch, there are a few options to consider. Here are a few tips that will help you improve your electrical system by installing an electrical transfer switch:

1. Choosing the Transfer Switch That Is Right for Your Needs

The modern transfer switches must have an on, off and on position per modern electrical codes. This is the same for the two basic types of transfer switches, which are manually and automatic operated switches. If you want to have uninterrupted power, an automatic switch is a good choice but will cost more than a manual switch. If you want to be able to switch the power source on your own, then a manual switch is a good solution and will cost less than having an automatic switch installed in your home.

2. The Requirements of Generators That Use an Automatic Transfer Switch

Automatic transfer switches have more requirements than manual switches. First, if you are going to be using the switch with a backup generator, it must have an electric ignition for the switch to work. Automatic switches are also compatible with portable generators that have an electric ignition. They can also be connected to a battery bank of renewable energy systems, such as solar panel arrays or wind turbines. Connecting a switch to a battery bank is not ideal if the renewable energy does not produce enough power to handle load on the electrical system.

3. The Applications Where You May Want to Use a Manual Transfer Switch

Manual systems are ideal for many smaller applications, such as using a portable generator or solar panel array that is too small to handle the loads of electrical systems. If you want to be able to switch the load from the electrical grid to a renewable energy system at will, then installation of a manual switch is ideal. The switch will allow you to switch from the utility company to another power source whenever you want to.

These are a few tips that will help you improve your electrical system by installing an electrical transfer switch. Contact an electrical contractor to help with the installation of a new electrical transfer switch.