Standby generator transfer switch capacity

By Dave Rongey Summary: Electrical Generator Question: Hooking up a standby generator with automatic transfer switch. I have 200amp service, can you use a 100amp automatic transfer switch, if you don't want to hook all breakers in your house? I have a Guardian 13KW generator with a inside switch. © By: Dave Rongey

Electrical Troubleshooting: Standby generator transfer switch capacity

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Generator Question:
Hooking up a standby generator with automatic transfer switch.

I have 200amp service, can you use a 100amp automatic transfer switch, if you don't want to hook all breakers in your house?

I have a Guardian 13KW generator with a inside switch.
Name James.

Hi James - Great Electrical Repair Question!
The Transfer Switch is rated at 100 amps, that is its capacity, and it will be limited by the 13KW size of your generator.

In a case such as this the transfer switch works best when a separate panel is installed which is designated for the electrical circuits that you want to have on generator power when the power fails.

These circuits that you have designated for generator power need to be re-routed out of the existing panel and placed into the added generator panel. This way the transfer switch will provide separation from the primary electrical utility company and safely provide power to the designated generator power circuits panel.

If the generator becomes overloaded during operation it should have a circuit breaker that will protect it. The capacity of the transfer switch is one thing, but the load limitation is always the rating of the generator.

Without knowing the exact brand and model of your transfer switch and generator I could not give further information except to say that your generator limitation is 13000 watts of power so the total load of the generator power circuits can not exceed this amount.

I'm not sure where you purchased the equipment from but I'm sure they will provide ample information for you as well.
I hope this helps you.