A residential generator typically has three basic components. These include:
1. Generator – This is the source of power for essential parts of your home such as heating, cooling, refrigeration and lighting. The size and output is determined by your backup needs.
2. Transfer Switch – Senses when power is interrupted and signals the generator to begin power generation. Senses when power is restored and transfers power generation back to the utility source and signals the generator to shut down and cool off.
3. Service Entrance Breaker – Provides protection to your transfer switch, internal breakers and circuits and generator due to electrical strikes and power surges.
How Does It Work?
1. The Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) continuously monitors incoming voltage from the utility line.
2. When utility power is interrupted, the transfer switch automatically senses the problem and signals the generator to start.
3. The transfer switch then safely closes off the utility line and simultaneously opens a new power line from the generator.
4. Within seconds, your home standby system begins to supply electricity to the essential circuits you have chosen.
5. When utility voltage returns at a steady state, the system transfers the electrical load back to the utility line. The generator engine continues to run for a cool-down period of several minutes while the entire system stands ready for the next power outage.
Call today to see how we can help meet your backup needs!