What is Transfer Switch?
A Transfer Switch is an essential electrical device used to switch a load between two power sources—typically from the main utility grid to a backup generator. It ensures that power transitions safely without risking damage to electrical systems or creating dangerous backfeeds into the grid.
In residential and commercial settings, Transfer Switches are crucial during power outages. For instance, when utility power fails, a transfer switch reroutes the electrical load to a generator. This changeover can be manual or automatic. Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS) detect a loss of power and activate the backup source without human intervention, which is ideal for critical systems like in hospitals or server rooms. Electricians install transfer switches to comply with electrical codes and to maintain operational continuity and safety during outages.
