transfer switch

[homeowner46]

I have a question on the installation of a manual transfer switch for my house. I bought the switch on line and I am looking for an electrician to install it. It is a cutler hammer 200 amp transfer switch I had two different electricians? look at it. One wants to install it between the meter socket and main panel and run thee new wires between the panel and the transfer switch using a short piece of plastic pipe. The other electrician wants to install in after the main panel and install a sub panel. Which method sounds correct?

 

[charlie b]

It can be done either way. Much depends on whether the other source of power (perhaps you own a generator?) has the capacity to supply the entire house, or whether you have some other plan to make sure you don?t overload that alternate source. That said, I am closing this thread, in accordance with forum rules. We are not permitted to assist homeowners who are not electricians.

Feel free to invite the two electricians who have given you estimates to register with this forum and tell us the basis for their recommendations. We will gladly give them comments, and you can certainly stick around to read their comments, and use that information to help you select someone to do your installation.

 

[augie47]

There are too many variables to make that selection without a lot more detail. Technical data such as whether the switch is service rated and the AIC rating have a bearing along with the size of the load and the size of the generator. All must be taken into account.
Unless it's a sizable generator, the sub-panel would possibly be best, but that is "shooting from the hip"
I would suggest you discuss with each what makes his installation the "better one" and strongly suggest you insist the job be permitted and inspected.

(Sorry Mr. Beck, I must have posted on top of you and I too was attempting to close.)