Why Your Generator Needs a Transfer Switch — And How It Works

Power outages in Stanwood, Marysville, and across North Snohomish County are more than just an inconvenience — they can disrupt daily life, cause food spoilage, and even damage sensitive electronics. If you’ve installed or are planning to install a standby generator, one essential component you can’t skip is the transfer switch.

Here’s what a generator transfer switch does, why it matters, and how Ample Electrical ensures it’s installed safely and correctly.

What Is a Transfer Switch?

A transfer switch is the device that safely switches your home’s power source from the utility grid to your backup generator when the power goes out. It prevents backfeeding — the dangerous flow of electricity from your generator back into the power lines — which can injure utility workers and damage equipment.

There are two main types:

• Manual Transfer Switch: You flip the switch yourself when the power goes out.

• Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): Detects a power loss and switches over automatically, often within seconds.

Why a Transfer Switch Is Non-Negotiable

Even if you already have a generator, you should never plug it directly into your home’s electrical system without a transfer switch. Doing so is dangerous, often illegal, and likely voids both your generator warranty and home insurance.

Benefits of a properly installed transfer switch:

• Keeps your family and utility workers safe

• Protects your appliances from power surges

• Simplifies usage during emergencies

• Ensures code compliance and permits are met

Whole-Home vs. Essential Circuit Backup

Not all homeowners need a full-home backup system. Some choose to power only essential circuits, like:

• Refrigerators

• Heating/cooling systems

• Lights

• Well pumps

• Internet routers

We help you choose between powering your whole house or selecting specific circuits based on your lifestyle, budget, and generator capacity.

How Transfer Switch Installation Works

When you call Ample Electrical, here’s what we do:

1. Assess your electrical panel and backup power needs

2. Recommend the right type of switch (manual or automatic)

3. Secure necessary permits if required

4. Install the switch safely and connect it to your generator

5. Test the system to ensure seamless operation

All work is performed by a licensed Master Electrician, using clean, code-compliant methods to ensure your system is both reliable and safe.

Serving Stanwood & Surrounding Areas

We install transfer switches in:

• Stanwood

• Marysville

• Arlington

• Camano Island

• Greater North Snohomish County

Whether you’re preparing for winter storms, wildfire season, or just want peace of mind year-round, we’ll make sure your generator is set up to power your home safely and efficiently.

Book Your Transfer Switch Installation Today

Don’t wait until the next storm hits. Call Ample Electrical at (360) 404-0928 or book your service online to schedule your generator and transfer switch setup. Power outages may be unpredictable — but your backup plan doesn’t have to be.