PORTABLE GENERATORS FOR YOUR HOME OR SMALL BUSINESS
- SEE OUR HOW TO VIDEO ON USING A PORTABLE GENERATOR AND YOUR ELECTRIC SYSTEM.
- SDG&E FACTS ABOUT PORTABLE GENERTORS.
For anyone who has ever considered having a permanently installed back up power generator, Permanent Standby (PS) systems, for their home or small business, the costs and permitting requirements necessary to complete an installation can be prohibitive and often times impossible to install at all should all the ordinances not be met (see attachments). And while there are certainly those customers who require, and are willing and able to commit to the time and expense of having a PS system installed, and we offer those as well, there are also many who may desire an alternative solution.
By utilizing a combination Manual Transfer Switch (MTS) and a Portable Generator (PG), you own or rent this generator, the UL listed MTS allows permitting the installation by the number of critical circuits being served and the inspection focuses on the proper installation of the MTS and those circuits which have been permitted.
Unlike the more sophisticated PS systems, the prerequisite plan check submission and review by the Building/Fire Department is not required in a MTS/PG permit application. Once the electrical permit fee’s have been paid, the installation has been inspected and approved by the Electrical Inspector (we strongly recommend using a licensed electrical contractor) and the utility has been notified of the installation, this MTS/PG system represents a less expensive alternative to those customers who can get by with a reduced level of power in the event of a utility outage.
In terms of function; the major differences between a PS system and the MTS/PG system is that unlike a PS system there is not an automatic power transfer to the generator when an outage occurs, the MTS/PG system does not take it’s fuel from a PROPANE/NAT/LP gas source on the property but instead from a fuel tank on the generator itself and the MTS/PG system does not actually hardwire into the buildings electrical service but instead plugs into a outlet from the PG to a special outlet on the MTS with a large extension cord capable of providing up to 12,500 watts or 120/240 volts at 50 amps when the PG is sized properly
How Does the System Work?
What is a Transfer Switch?
A transfer switch is an electrical device that allows you to safely connect a generator to your household wiring. It is permanently installed near the service panel in your home to make using a generator as safe and easy as operating a light switch.
Why do I need one?
During a power outage, there are two ways to use a portable generator for power. The first is to run extension cords from the generator to your lights and appliances. However, this is inconvenient and does not allow you to operate some of your critical circuits like the furnace fan or well pump. The second way to use a generator is to connect it directly into your household wiring. Using only one cord, you can now power several or all of your most important household circuits, including the furnace fan and well pump. To do this, the National Electrical Code requires a transfer switch. Direct connection without a transfer switch can result in damage to your home and generator and great harm to utility workers.
How does a Transfer Switch work?
A transfer switch prevents the utility power and the generator power from powering your household circuits at the same time. When the utility power goes out, you simply plug your generator into the transfer switch, start it up, and flip the transfer switch or switches from the UTILITY position to the GENERATOR position. The most important circuits in you home are now powered by the generator.
