Causes of a Burned Transfer Switch
A transfer switch is an emergency power system component. One popular variety is called an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS). The seamless transition between public utility power and your backup power source disappears if the ATS burns out. Protecting your ATS from harm is an aspect of properly caring for your backup generator system. Homeowners relying on uninterrupted electrical power may suffer consequences should the ATS fail. Prevent unexpected surprises. Knowledge of why a transfer switch burns out alerts you to when testing of the unit is required. Before the next power outage strikes, make sure your ATS is up to par. Does this Spark an idea?
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Poor Maintenance
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Neglect or a lack of maintenance of the backup generator may cause a burned ATS.
Lack of Use
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Transfer switches can seize when left in one position for extended periods of time (from a month to a year).
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Internal Failures
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Overlooking frequent internal transfer switch failures that result in load neutralizing or premature power transfers can eventually damage the ATS device.
No Pole Breaker
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The absence of a double pole breaker can cause the main wiring of an ATS to overheat.
No Blade Area Surge Protection
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Arcing during disconnection and connection within the switch, while unprotected by a blade-side surge protective device (SPD), can cause the ATS to burnout.
Logic Control Failure
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ATS devices are subject to failures in programming or logic controls. This variable may result in an ATS burnout.
Lightning Storms
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The absence of a SPD on the power utility line side may damage an ATS during lightning storms, power grid issues and capacitor bank switching.
Aging Backup Generator
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With older or poorly maintained backup generator systems, the absence of a SPD at the generator load side of the automatic transfer switch can cause damage to the ATS.
Relevant Warnings
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Manually attempting to operate an ATS is very dangerous. Severe injury or swift death may occur. Do not attempt to manually operate or troubleshoot an ATS if you lack the training, knowledge or professional support.
If a breaker within the ATS is unexpectedly tripped, determine the cause prior to resetting it.
Automatic transfer switches can fail to signal the generator to start for a number of not readily visible reasons. Rely on a qualified electrician to maintain the ATS in order to ensure uninterrupted electrical power during a public utility outage.
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