HVAC Transfer Switch Installation

The Benefits of HVAC Transfer Switch Installation

Each day begins with an alarm from an electronic device to wake up and prepare for the day. Lights come on, grooming commences, and breakfast is prepared, using a host of electronic appliances. Communication, navigation, and work depend on yet more gadgets. Where would we be without these tools that make our lives comfortable and productive?

However, increasingly, Texans are experiencing days and even weeks without electricity, often due to extreme weather. For this reason, homeowners are exploring the purchase and installation of generators as a backup plan for periods without power. A generator makes a home safer and more comfortable following extreme weather events.

A generator avoids losing frozen or refrigerated food supplies and provides light during insecure times. A whole-house generator can keep a home cool or warm when the temperature is the most extreme.

Homeowners who consider this option must investigate the generator marketplace and make several decisions, including fuel type and size.

• Whole-house generators are installed permanently at a sufficient distance to prevent exhaust from entering the home; this requires design and planning. Usually, the generator is connected to the home’s natural gas or propane supply, and cables are permanently connected to the home’s electric service panel, requiring various professionals.
• Portable generators are smaller versions, that are safely stored until needed along with sufficient fuel to begin generating electricity. This generator will be positioned away from the home to keep exhaust from entering the home. Cables connect the generator to the service panel, empowering designated circuits or the entire wiring network. When the power outage is over, the portable generator will be secured and stored until needed again.

Whether a whole-house or portable version, each generator will require the installation of a transfer switch. Why?

Each home is connected directly to the utility power grid; the connection is made at the main circuit panel. Generators are also generally connected directly to the same panel. When the power fails, and a generator starts generating electricity, it is designed to empower the home’s wiring system. However, should the generator re-energize the power grid, it presents a danger to other people.

Repair crews are expecting downed power lines to be without power; should they inadvertently contact a hot wire, it can be deadly. The generator can also empower the wiring system of a neighbor’s damaged home, creating a fire hazard or electrocution danger. For these reasons and more, a transfer switch is required for every generator.

Transfer switches are installed between the power grid and the electrical service panel, but the switch is different for whole-house and portable generators.

• A whole-house generator needs an automatic transfer switch. Within seconds of a power outage, the transfer switch automatically disconnects the home’s circuitry from the utility’s power grid and connects the generator’s cable to the home’s wiring network. The generator will automatically respond and within seconds, power will be restored in the home. When repair crews successfully restore the power grid, the transfer switch recognizes the change, disconnects the generator cable, and reconnects the panel to the power grid.
• Portable generators require a manual transfer switch since the portable generator does not begin automatically. The manual switch acts in the same way as automatic switches, disconnecting the home from the power grid and connecting the cable between the generator and the home’s circuits. However, this switch must be engaged and disengaged manually.

Power outages are most often caused by either very hot or very cold weather events. During these events, a generator is necessary to restore power to your HVAC system, keeping your home safe and comfortable.

Do You Have Questions About HVAC Transfer Switch Installation?

Northwind Air Conditioning and Heat can help answer your HVAC Transfer Switch Installation questions for your whole home generator. Contact us and get the help you need.