Typically, the transfer switch is located between the utility meter and the loads to be served. It should be within 25 feet or less of the generating unit for convenience and safety. If the location of critical loads are scattered among several outbuildings, the central meter pole may be the best location for both the transfer switch and the generator.
The size of the transfer switch is determined by the loads to be served. If a central meter pole location is used, the transfer switch rating must be equal to the size of the main service (typically 100, 200 or 400 amperes). If the standby system is designed to supply an individual building, or even a single circuit, the transfer switch will be sized to the total ampere rating of the connected loads.
If an engine-driven generator with automatic start-up is used, the transfer switch is normally built into the automatic controls of the system. In this case, the transfer switch must be large enough to handle all electrical loads, size the switch to match the rating of conductors which supply regular power to the building(s) or farmstead.
Adding a standby generator to the electrical system of a home, farm or business requires a suitable transfer safety switch to disconnect the electric loads from the power suppliers utility grid. This is a requirement of the National Electrical Code (NEC Article 702-6).
Contact our Operations department here, or call 1-800-533-8658, for ways to connect your standby generator safely.