If you are wondering how a whole house generator works, you have come to the right place. There are some things you need to know about this type of unit before you buy one. You’ll find out if you need a transfer switch, how to size your unit, and more.
Generac Guardian
The Generac Guardian whole house generator offers power for the entire house when utility power goes out. This generator has an OHVI engine that provides best-in-class power quality. It is also designed to be quiet.
This home backup generator works on LP (propane) gas from your home tank. In addition, it is engineered to work with your home’s circuit breaker panel.
The Generac Guardian series is available to fit every need. You can get the power you need for your home at a price you can afford. And, you can count on Generac for excellent customer support.
These backup generators are engineered in the United States. They use G-Force technology for a smoother, quieter, and more reliable operation. As a result, they require less routine maintenance than other competitive engines.
Generac’s Guardian series features all-weather aluminum enclosures. This ensures your home’s safety. Plus, it is backed by a nationwide dealer network.
Home backup generators offer the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family is safe. When the power goes out, your generator runs automatically to provide backup power until your utility company returns.
Generac Symphony II transfer switch
The Generac Symphony II transfer switch is a powerhouse. It’s designed to monitor your home’s electrical circuits and manage high-wattage appliances. With a few clicks of your mouse, you can connect your generator to a single source and safely redirect power to your entire home.
Powered by a purpose-built, pressure-lubricated engine, this unit boasts a maximum of 3600 RPM. It also boasts a 50-amp Voltage Module that’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor locations.
The Symphony II transfer switch is a smart way to save you time and money on installation. It comes with extra spaces for up to 12 branch circuits. Plus, you get a locking plug to secure your generator cord.
Aside from its slick features, the Symphony II transfer switch makes the grade when it comes to saving you from a power outage. This includes a delay circuit that prevents your generator from starting instantly when a power drop occurs. And, you can even keep your electronics running by connecting them to a separate battery.
Automatic transfer switch (ATS)
Automatic transfer switches are key pieces of equipment in a backup generator system. They enable smooth power transitions and eliminate risks associated with outages.
Automatic transfer switches are generally microprocessor-based. They monitor the voltage and frequency of the primary and backup power sources. If they sense that the mains has failed, the ATS will switch the load circuit to the backup source. Then, it re-transfers the electrical load when the power returns.
These switches can be manual or automatic. Typically, the former is used to isolate the backup generator from the electric utility. However, they can also be designed to command the backup generator to start.
Transfer switches can be sold as pre-wired units, eliminating the need for spooled wire. In addition, they typically include circuit breaker wiring to connect to the main panel.
An automatic transfer switch can be used to provide backup power for businesses and homes. It can be used to power appliances, such as air conditioners, lighting, refrigerators, and heating systems.
Proper sizing of your whole house generator
When choosing a whole house generator, it is important to ensure that you get the correct size. The wrong size can lead to unnecessary power loss, as well as damage to appliances. It can also be inefficient, and can make it hard to run important equipment, such as a central air conditioner.
To find out what your wattage needs are, you first need to calculate the total number of appliances in your home. This number will determine the proper size of your generator. A wattage calculator will help you do this.
Next, you will need to write down all the wattage requirements of the appliances in your home. You can find this information on the manufacturer’s manual or by consulting an electrician. Often, the wattage requirements of these devices are in the range of volt-amps.
You can then add the total wattage to the kilowatts needed for your home use. Make sure to multiply this number by 1.25 to account for any safety margins.