Deciding what stays on
List what you want to keep running before comparing equipment. Refrigeration, lighting, communications, pumps and larger appliances have different power and starting requirements. We review the chosen loads and intended use before discussing an essential-circuit arrangement or broader backup installation. The system should follow those needs rather than house size alone.
Transfer switches and interlocks
Backup equipment needs a suitable transfer arrangement when connected to building wiring. Automatic and manual arrangements have different operating requirements, and the selected equipment must work with the proposed installation. We explain the electrical scope, permits and inspection responsibilities. Never feed a building panel through an ordinary outlet; that can energize utility lines and endanger other people.
Compare batteries and generators
Batteries and generators have different capacity, runtime, maintenance and installation requirements. Consider outage duration, the loads you need and how energy or fuel will be replenished. We review the electrical connections, transfer equipment, backed-up distribution and circuits within the proposed scope. Fuel, siting or other specialist work needs clear responsibility.
Background reference: Cummins: Transfer Switch Application Manual.
Common questions
Automatic transfer switch or a manual interlock?
Automatic transfer can start a compatible standby system and transfer selected loads without someone operating a manual changeover. Generator startup and transfer still interrupt power. Equipment that cannot tolerate an interruption needs a separate assessment, potentially including a UPS or other specifically designed support. A manual arrangement requires someone to operate it. We review the loads, equipment compatibility and operating needs before proposing the transfer arrangement.
Can I just plug a generator into an outlet?
No. Back-feeding a panel through an outlet energises the utility line outside your house and can kill a lineworker or a neighbor. It also puts unfused current through the outlet's wiring. A proper transfer switch or interlock isolates you from the grid before your generator connects, which is the entire point of the device.
Do you supply the generator or just wire it?
We handle the electrical side: the transfer equipment, the backed-up subpanel, the circuits and the permit. Tell us what unit you are considering, or what you want to keep running, and we will tell you what the electrical work involves and whether the unit suits the list.
Technical planning notes & references
BEFORE WE QUOTE THE WORK
Decide what needs to stay on
Choose loads before equipment
Refrigeration, lighting, communications and larger mechanical loads have different demands. Starting loads and runtime matter alongside output. Whole-building backup and a limited essential-load arrangement can produce very different proposals.
Coordinate sources safely
An appropriate transfer arrangement prevents unintended connection between sources. Equipment location, fuel, ventilation, clearances and maintenance access need manufacturer and authority coordination. Batteries and generators have different requirements; the final design must suit the selected equipment.