Protect Your Providence Home with Transfer Switches

Wiring Generator Transfer Switch

As a resident of Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island, you know that Mother Nature can be unpredictable. From hurricanes to blizzards, power outages are a common occurrence. And when the electricity goes out, it can be a major inconvenience for you and your family. Not only does it disrupt your everyday routine, but it can also pose safety risks if you are left without power for an extended period of time. That’s why having a backup plan for your home’s electricity is crucial, and one of the most effective ways to do that is by installing a generator transfer switch.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. They specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making them the go-to electrician for many homes and businesses in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area. In this article, we will dive into the world of generator transfer switches and how they can keep your home safe and powered during power outages.

What is a Generator Transfer Switch?

A generator transfer switch is a device that allows you to safely connect your home’s generator to your electrical system during a power outage. It works by isolating your home from the power grid, preventing any backfeeding of electricity, and ensuring that only the generator’s power is used to power your home’s essential circuits. Without a transfer switch, attempting to power your home with a generator can be dangerous as it can send electricity back into the grid, putting utility workers and your home at risk.

Why Do You Need a Generator Transfer Switch?

While portable generators may seem like a cheaper and easier alternative to a permanent standby generator, they come with their own set of risks and drawbacks. Without a transfer switch, you would have to manually plug appliances and devices into the generator, which can be time-consuming and dangerous. Furthermore, portable generators can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, so it is essential to keep them at least 20 feet away from your home.

On the other hand, a generator transfer switch eliminates these risks and makes the process of powering your home during an outage much more manageable. It also ensures that only essential circuits are powered, meaning you have control over what appliances and devices receive electricity, saving you from overloading the generator. Additionally, with a standby generator and transfer switch, you can rest easy knowing that your home will automatically switch to generator power in the event of a power outage, so you don’t have to manually intervene.

Types of Generator Transfer Switches

There are two types of generator transfer switches: manual and automatic. A manual transfer switch requires you to physically disconnect your home from the grid and connect it to your generator, while an automatic transfer switch will do this automatically when a power outage occurs. While manual switches are more affordable, they require manual intervention, making them less convenient during power outages. Automatic switches, on the other hand, provide a seamless transition to generator power without any effort from the homeowner.

Another decision to make when choosing a generator transfer switch is whether to opt for a whole-house switch or a selective switch. A whole-house switch powers all circuits in your home, while a selective switch allows you to choose specific circuits to power during an outage. Selective switches are more cost-effective and are suitable for homeowners who want to prioritize critical circuits such as lights, refrigerator, and heating system.

Generator Transfer Switch Installation

Installing a generator transfer switch requires the expertise of a licensed electrician. B&K Electric has a team of highly skilled and experienced electricians who can install a generator transfer switch to ensure that it is done safely and correctly. They will also guide you in choosing the right type of switch for your home and help determine which circuits are essential during an outage.

Overall

Having a backup plan for your home’s electricity is crucial. A generator transfer switch is an essential component of that plan, providing a safe and reliable solution for powering your home during a power outage. With the help of B&K Electric, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home will be safe and powered during any electricity-related emergencies.

Topics:

generator transfer switch,

standby generator,

backup plan