The Component Most Buyers Don't Know They Need
When homeowners start shopping for a standby generator, they're focused on kilowatts, fuel type, and price. The transfer switch rarely comes up — until the electrician mentions it at installation. Here's what you need to know before you buy.
What Is a Transfer Switch?
A transfer switch is an electrical device that safely switches your home's power source between utility grid power and your generator. When the utility power fails, the transfer switch disconnects your home from the grid before connecting it to the generator. When utility power returns, it switches back.
This switching process is critical for two reasons:
- Safety: Without a transfer switch, generator power can "backfeed" onto the utility lines — creating a lethal hazard for utility workers restoring power in your neighborhood. This is illegal and a serious liability.
- Equipment protection: When utility power returns, a transfer switch prevents two power sources from connecting simultaneously, which can damage your generator and appliances.
Do I Need a Transfer Switch?
Yes — always. If you're installing a standby generator, a transfer switch is not optional. It is required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) and by virtually every local jurisdiction in New York State. No reputable electrician will install a standby generator without one.
Manual vs. Automatic Transfer Switches
There are two main types:
- Manual Transfer Switch (MTS): You physically flip a switch to transfer power. Used with portable generators. Requires you to be home and act during an outage.
- Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): Monitors utility power 24/7 and automatically starts the generator and transfers power within seconds of detecting an outage — no action required. Standard with all automatic standby generators.
If you're installing an automatic standby generator (the type that turns on by itself), you'll need an ATS. This is included or paired with virtually all residential standby generator installations.
Whole-Home vs. Critical Load Transfer Switches
- Whole-home (service entrance) transfer switch: Transfers your entire electrical panel to generator power. Works with larger generators (20 kW+). Simpler wiring, maximum coverage.
- Critical load / load center transfer switch: Transfers only selected circuits (furnace, fridge, sump pump, lights) to generator power. Works with smaller generators (7–17 kW). Lower cost but requires deciding which circuits to include.
What Size Transfer Switch Do I Need?
Transfer switches are rated in amps and must match or exceed your main electrical panel's service size. Most Central NY homes have 200-amp service, so a 200-amp transfer switch is standard. Older homes may have 100-amp service — worth confirming with your electrician before purchasing.
Browse Transfer Switches
Syracuse Generators carries compatible transfer switches for residential and light commercial installations throughout Central New York. Browse our Transfer Switches collection or contact us to confirm compatibility with a generator you're considering.