Automatic Transfer Switch Installation
A transfer switch is the essential link between your generator and home electrical system. When utility power fails, it automatically disconnects from the grid and connects to your generator — all in 10-15 seconds. When power returns, it automatically switches back.
Why Transfer Switches Are Essential
Never manually switch power again — let automation protect your home.
Automatic Transfer
Switches to generator power in seconds when utility power fails - completely automatic
Safe Operation
Prevents backfeed to utility lines, protecting utility workers and your generator
Seamless Transition
Power transfer is so fast your clocks won't even reset - most appliances never skip a beat
Code Compliant
Meets all NEC requirements for safe automatic and manual transfer switch installation
Transfer Switch Options
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
The professional solution for whole-house generators:
- Completely automatic operation
- Transfers in 10-15 seconds
- Powers whole house or selected circuits
- Required for permanent generators
- UL listed and code compliant
Recommended for Generac, Kohler, and other permanent standby generators
Manual Transfer Switch
Budget-friendly option for portable generators:
- You flip switches manually
- Safe connection for portable generator
- Select which circuits to power
- Simpler and less expensive than automatic
- Prevents dangerous backfeed
Recommended for portable generators used during emergencies
Transfer Switch Installation Process
Professional installation from planning to final inspection.
- 1
Load Calculation
Determine which circuits to protect and calculate transfer switch size needed.
- 2
Permit & Planning
Obtain electrical permit and plan installation location for switch and generator.
- 3
Installation
Install transfer switch, run wiring to generator location, connect circuits.
- 4
Testing & Inspection
Test automatic transfer operation, verify all connections, pass county inspection.
What Circuits Should You Protect?
Common circuits to include on your transfer switch:
- Refrigerator & Freezer
- Well Pump (if applicable)
- Sump Pump
- Heating System (furnace/boiler)
- Garage Door Opener
- Essential Lighting Circuits
- Internet/Router
- Security System
- Medical Equipment
- Kitchen Outlets
- Bedroom Outlets
- Air Conditioning (size permitting)
We'll help you determine the right circuits based on your generator size and priorities.
Size Matters: Choosing the Right Transfer Switch
100 Amp Transfer Switch
For smaller generators (7-13 kW) powering essential circuits only
200 Amp Transfer Switch
For whole-house generators (14-26 kW) powering most or all circuits (most common)
400 Amp Transfer Switch
For large homes with 400A service and large generators (30+ kW)
Transfer Switch Installation in Western Chicagoland
Automatic transfer switches are essential for whole-house generator systems in DuPage County, automatically switching your home from ComEd utility power to generator power within 10-15 seconds of outage detection. During winter storm outages, automatic transfer switches ensure your backup power activates even if you're away from home. We install Generac, Kohler, and Eaton transfer switches sized appropriately for your generator capacity and home electrical load. Installation includes DuPage County electrical permit, coordination with ComEd for service disconnect, proper grounding per Illinois Electrical Code, load center modifications, and final inspection. Transfer switches prevent dangerous backfeed to utility lines, protecting ComEd workers and your generator from damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size transfer switch do I need for my Chicagoland home?
Transfer switch size must match both your electrical panel amperage and generator capacity. Most Western Chicagoland homes have 200-amp main panels requiring 200-amp automatic transfer switches (most common). Older homes with 100-amp panels need 100-amp transfer switches. The switch amperage must not exceed your generator's capacity — a 22 kW Generac typically requires a 200-amp switch for whole-house coverage. We perform load calculations during your free assessment.
What drives the cost of an automatic transfer switch installation?
The main variables are transfer switch amperage (100A vs 200A vs 400A), whether it's service-entrance-rated or load-side, installation location relative to the panel and generator, whether an electrical panel upgrade is required first, permit fees by jurisdiction, and any load-management modules needed to run larger loads on a smaller generator. We quote fixed-price after a walkaround.
Can I install a transfer switch myself in DuPage County?
No. Transfer switch installation requires a licensed electrician and DuPage County electrical permit. DIY installation is illegal and dangerous — improper installation causes house fires, electrocution risk, and backfeed danger to utility workers. Illinois electrical code requires proper grounding, correct wire sizing, NEC-compliant installation, utility notification, and county inspection.
What's the difference between automatic and manual transfer switches?
Automatic transfer switches (ATS) detect utility power loss and switch to generator power automatically within 10-15 seconds — essential for whole-house standby generators. Manual transfer switches require you to physically flip switches to select generator or utility power — used with portable generators. For Western Chicagoland homes with permanent standby generators, automatic transfer switches are strongly recommended.
Do transfer switches require maintenance?
Transfer switches require minimal maintenance but should be inspected annually during generator service. Maintenance includes exercising the switch, checking electrical connections, verifying control board functions, testing automatic and manual operation, and inspecting for rust or corrosion. Transfer switch inspection is included in our annual generator maintenance service.
Can I add a transfer switch to my existing generator?
Yes. We can add automatic transfer switches to existing portable or standby generators. If you're currently using extension cords or manual switching, upgrading to automatic dramatically improves convenience and safety. Retrofit requires an electrical permit, a properly sized switch for generator output, panel modifications, a generator compatible with automatic starting, and electrical inspection. Typical retrofit takes about a day on-site.
Transfer Switch Options at a Glance
Match the switch to the generator, the panel, and the coverage you want.
Manual Transfer
For portable generators. Safe generator hookup, interlock device, 6–10 selected circuits. Permits and inspection included.
100-Amp ATS
Standard residential automatic switch for essential-circuit coverage. 10-second automatic transfer.
200-Amp ATS
Whole-house automatic transfer, load management capable, coordinated with ComEd for the disconnect. Most common home standby configuration.
Quoted fixed-price after a site walk. Panel upgrade may be required for some installations. Request a quote.
Understanding Transfer Switches for Your Generator
A transfer switch is the essential safety device that connects your generator to your home's electrical system. Without a properly installed transfer switch, you cannot safely power your home during an outage. Western Chicagoland homes with standby generators require automatic transfer switches that detect power loss and switch to generator power within 10-15 seconds.
For homeowners with portable generators, a manual transfer switch provides a safe way to connect generator power to selected circuits. This eliminates dangerous extension cords and the risk of backfeeding power to utility lines. Our manual transfer installations in Naperville, Plainfield, and surrounding areas include proper interlocks and meet all DuPage County electrical codes.
If your electrical panel is 100-amp or you have a Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel, you'll likely need a panel upgrade before transfer switch installation. We coordinate panel upgrades and transfer switch installations to minimize disruption.
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