The transfer switch is a safety mechanism that ensures the smooth transition of power from utility power to generator power when outages occur. It prevents hazardous power backfeeding in the utility lines, protects utility workers, and saves your property.

A transfer switch acts as a controlled switch by separating the industrial electrical system from the utility grid when the generator is used as the power source. In this blog, let’s discuss the functionalities of the transfer switch and why it is important. 

Table of contents 

  • Functionalities of transfer switch 
  • Why transfer switch is important for your industrial generator 
  • Types of transfer switch 
  • Pricing and installation of a Transfer switch 

Functionalities of transfer switch

Stops back feeding 

The transfer switch’s primary role is to stop the flow of electricity backward from a generator to the utility lines. If it happens, it will affect the utility workers, affect machinery, and repair all power lines.  

Power distribution 

A transfer switch effectively performs selective power distribution by allowing you to choose the circuits to be powered by a generator. This functionality helps you prioritize which machines you want to run during the power outage.

Safety switching 

The transfer switch ensures the utility grid is completely disconnected from the power source before activating the generator. This prevents damage to appliances and also stops potential electrical surges. 

Manual Operation or Automatic operation 

A transfer switch is available in manual and automatic versions. In Standby generators the transfer switch is automatically turned on during the power outage, whereas in portable generators, you need to manually flip the switch to transfer the power sources when power is lost. 

Why transfer switch is important for your industrial generator 

Safety:

The transfer switch is extremely important in an industry that uses generators; it saves the lives of utility workers and also the appliances connected to the generator. It prevents backfeeds and avoids the risk of electrical shock to utility workers.  

Easy to use:

You can power a wide range of appliances and circuits in your industry using the transfer switch during power outages. It avoids the manual work of plugging in extension cords to each appliance. 

Code of Compliance

Most of the electrical codes have mandated the use of the transfer switch when you connect the generator to your industrial electrical system. 

Types of transfer switch 

The common types of transfer switches are available in automatic and manual variants. 

Automatic Transfer switch 

  • The automatic switch automatically transfers power from the main source to the generator when there is a power outage. 
  • The Soft loading transfer switch and Bypass isolation transfer switch also follow an automatic transfer switch or ATS  mechanism where soft loading can adjust the power load required for each appliance, whereas the bypass switch helps to power appliances when the ATS requires maintenance or testing. 

Manual Transfer Switch 

  • A manual transfer switch requires manual intervention to switch the power. You need to flip the small lever whenever there is a power outage to switch the load. 
  • Manual transfer switch are commonly used in portable generators. 

Pricing and installation of a Transfer switch 

Pricing:

  • Manual transfer switches are less expensive than automatic switches. 
  • The automatic transfer switches for industrial generators range from $2000 to $20,000 and more based on the generator model. 
  • The manual transfer switches for industrial generators range from $400 to $1,300 and more based on the generator model. 

Installation

  • In order to install the transfer switch for your industrial generator, it is recommended to contact an experienced electrician. 
  • Do not risk life by doing it yourself. 

If you want expert help to install a transfer switch to your generator, contact us today!

At CS diesel generators, we provide a range of automatic and manual transfer switches for all types of industrial generators. We take care of the permit work and send a professional electrician to your place to perform the installation. We provide expert guidance to choose the right transfer switch for your industrial generator and offer hassle-free installation.

To choose the right transfer switch for your generator, reach us today!