Any problems installing transfer switch now and generator later?

Status
Not open for further replies.
S

sleclerc

New member
Location
NJ
First let me start by saying that I'm not an electrical contractor, I'm a GC. I had an interesting question today from a potential customer. They were going to have an addition put on their home and perform a 200 amp service panel upgrade. They would like to prepare for a future whole house generator but they don't have the budget for the generator this year. They asked if they could add the automatic transfer switch now when they do the service panel upgrade and add the generator next year when they have the budget.

Are there any problem with Generac, Kohler or Cummins ATS operating if they did this and the switch doesn't see a connected generator?

Has anyone does this before and the ATS was obsolete or incompatible with the generator purchased at a later date? Thanks.
 
Dennis Alwon said:
That would not be a problem... The ATS should stay connected until utility power drops out
Click to expand...

I would further add that the customer should coordinate the ATS choice with the future generator choice, and not change horses in mid-stream thereafter.
 
As stated, it's perfectly doable. If an exterior main disconnect will be required, a service-rated ATS can be that disconnect.
 
Dennis Alwon said:
That would not be a problem... The ATS should stay connected until utility power drops out
Click to expand...
Don't most of them only transfer after generator has started and reached stable volts/frequency?

I think the generator sort of drives the ATS and not the utility power, it may transfer back to utility with utility voltage but via switching devices in the generator - no generator you need to somehow bypass that or just use manual switching features. Generac's that I have worked on seemed to be that way anyhow.

I wouldn't buy a ATS until purchasing a generator. For one thing it may cost less when purchased with the generator. The other is if you purchased one brand ATS then got a great deal on some other generator - they may or may not easily work with one another, or even have a valid warranty if not used with one recommended by the manufacturer. If anything put in a main disconnect and feed a main lug panel at initial installation and leave room to insert ATS later on between them. Service rated ATS can be converted to non service use I believe, just remove bonding jumper. Or replace service disconnect altogether with the service rated ATS. Here on a dwelling no permit required if I don't replace the service disconnecting means, doesn't mean I will do the install any different, just one less thing to deal with.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top