Houston Transfer Switch Installation Services 

Keeping Your Business Running Smoothly for 30+ Years 

When it comes to reliable transfer switch installation services, look no further than Colwell Electric. Our team of licensed and insured commercial electricians is dedicated to getting the job done right, every time. We take pride in our high-quality workmanship and ensure that your transfer switch is installed efficiently and effectively. With our team on your side, you can trust that your business will have a reliable and seamless power transfer system in place, providing peace of mind during power outages or equipment maintenance.

Call (713) 940-6120 to schedule a transfer switch installation in Houston.

What Does a Transfer Switch Do?

The purpose of a transfer switch is to safely and efficiently transfer power from a primary power source to an alternative power source, such as a backup generator, during a power outage or when the primary power source is unavailable. It acts as a control mechanism that ensures a seamless transition between power sources, protecting electrical equipment from potential damage caused by power fluctuations or surges. 

The transfer switch also eliminates the need for manual intervention, automatically detecting the loss of power and initiating the switch to the backup power source. Overall, the primary purpose of a transfer switch is to provide a reliable and uninterrupted power supply to essential systems and equipment in residential, commercial, or industrial settings.

Is the Transfer Switch Necessary with a Generator?

Yes, a transfer switch is necessary when using a generator. It is an essential component that ensures safe and efficient power transfer from the generator to your electrical system. 

Here are some reasons why a transfer switch is necessary with a generator:

• Safety: A transfer switch prevents backfeeding, which is a dangerous situation where electricity flows back into the utility lines, potentially endangering utility workers or neighboring properties.
• Convenience: With a transfer switch, you can easily switch between utility power and generator power without the need for manual intervention. This eliminates the hassle of unplugging and plugging in appliances or devices during a power outage.
• Appliance protection: A transfer switch isolates your electrical system from the utility grid, protecting your appliances and devices from power surges or voltage fluctuations when the generator kicks in.
• Compliance with electrical codes: In many jurisdictions, the installation of a transfer switch is required by electrical codes for the safe and legal operation of a backup generator.
• Seamless power transfer: A transfer switch ensures a smooth transition between utility power and generator power, providing an uninterrupted power supply to essential circuits or appliances.

Connecting a generator directly to your electrical system without a transfer switch can pose significant safety risks and may not comply with building codes. Therefore, it is highly recommended to install a transfer switch to ensure the safe and proper operation of your generator.

Do Transfer Switches Go Bad?

Yes, transfer switches can go bad over time. Various factors can contribute to the failure or malfunction of a transfer switch. 

Some common issues that can cause transfer switches to go bad include:

• Loose connections: Over time, the electrical connections within the transfer switch can become loose, leading to poor electrical contact and potential failure.
• Corrosion and accumulation of dust/dirt: Moisture and environmental factors can cause corrosion on the electrical components of the transfer switch, affecting its performance. Accumulation of dust and dirt can also interfere with the proper functioning of the switch.
• Burned wire connections: If wire connections within the transfer switch are burned or if the wire insulation is melted, the transfer switch can malfunction.
• Stuck switch mechanism: Transfer switches rely on mechanical components to switch between power sources. If the switch mechanism gets stuck or fails to operate smoothly, this can result in a transfer switch failure.
• Actuator coil failure: In some cases, the actuator coil in the transfer switch can fail, leading to malfunctioning of the switch.

It is important to regularly inspect and maintain transfer switches to prevent potential failures. If you notice any signs of malfunction – such as unusual smells, smoke, or failure to switch power sources correctly –consult a qualified transfer switch technician in Houston for inspection and repair.