Transfer Switch Installation: North Shore quotes
A transfer switch is what makes a generator safe to connect to your house wiring. It disconnects the house from the utility before the generator powers it, so electricity cannot flow back onto the street lines. We connect you with independent local electricians who install automatic switches for standby units and manual switches or interlocks for portable generators.
What the job involves
- Panel review. The electrician checks the main panel, service size and which circuits you want backed up.
- Choose the switch. Standby units use an automatic transfer switch. Portable units typically use a manual switch or a listed panel interlock with an inlet box.
- Permit and install. A licensed electrician pulls the electrical permit and installs the switch and wiring.
- Inspect and test. The wiring inspector signs off and the switch is tested so you know how it works before the next storm.
Why generator safety matters
Backup power is about comfort, but how you get it is a safety decision.
Portable generators kill people every year
CPSC estimates about 85 U.S. consumers die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by gasoline-powered portable generators, and 81% of those deaths happen at homes.(CPSC: Generator safety and carbon monoxide deaths)
Distance is not optional
CPSC says to run a portable generator only outdoors, at least 20 feet from the house, with the exhaust pointed away, and to have working CO alarms.(CPSC: Generator safety and carbon monoxide deaths)
Backfeeding can electrocute line workers
Plugging a generator into a wall outlet sends power back onto utility lines. CPSC warns this can electrocute utility workers and neighbors.(CPSC: Portable generator safety alert (PDF))
Use a transfer switch
OSHA says a generator should only be connected to a building's wiring through a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician.(OSHA: Using portable generators safely (PDF), Ready.gov: Power outages (including generator safety))
Is this the right fit?
- You plan to install a standby generator
- You own a portable generator and run extension cords during outages
- Someone has suggested a "backfeed" cord. Do not use one.
- Your panel is full or old and may need work before a generator is added
- You want only certain circuits (heat, fridge, sump) on backup power
Every job is different. The pro you speak with will explain their own approach and pricing. North Shore Generator Pros does not perform, supervise, or guarantee any work.
Further reading: CPSC: Generator safety and carbon monoxide deaths · Ready.gov: Power outages (including generator safety) · OSHA: Using portable generators safely (PDF)
Generator questions
Why can't I just plug my generator into an outlet?
That is called backfeeding. CPSC calls it extremely dangerous: it can electrocute utility workers and neighbors on the same transformer and bypasses household circuit protection. OSHA says a generator should only be connected to a building's wiring through a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician.
Automatic or manual?
Automatic switches sense an outage and start a standby generator by themselves. Manual switches are used with portable generators and require you to start the generator and flip the switch.
Can I install a transfer switch myself?
In Massachusetts, electrical work like this requires a licensed electrician and a permit.
How far from the house should a portable generator be?
CPSC says at least 20 feet, outdoors only, with the exhaust pointed away from the home, and never in a garage or basement, even with the door open.
Is it legal to backfeed through a dryer outlet?
It is unsafe and violates electrical code. CPSC warns backfeeding can electrocute utility workers and neighbors. Use a transfer switch or interlock installed by a licensed electrician.
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