Manual
switches have been largely replaced with automatic ones, first and foremost
because of greater convenience. A transfer switch is, regardless of type, an
electrical machine that is used to switch the load from one source to another.
It ensures continuity when the main source has failed or is affected by a power
outage. One may choose to make the transfer between power sources either
manually or automatically.
Many
regard the manual changeover switch type as old fashioned. This is made
to work with manual generator power supplies and does not act as fast as the
automatic alternative. As for the safety part, it is just as safe as the other.
In any case, a backup power switch will be useful in any household.
A manual transfer switch must be operated by the owner in the
situation of a blackout. This means a certain downtime and it's up to you
whether you can handle that or not. If there is no risk and no profit loss
involved, then you can keep this system and rely on it. You will be able to
energize the critical circuits when there is no utility power. Not just home,
but also commercial spaces can use the manual switch.
Energy
source duplication is efficiently prevented and no extension cord is needed.
Both installation and use are simple. Competitive switch vendors on the market
will make sure the installation is affordable, the warranty is advantageous and
the technical support is available 24/7, to reduce downtime to a minimum.
You
may set your transfer switch to serve the whole house or only a few critical
circuits. The overall load will be decisive here. Manufacturers will inform you
on the different types, as well as on installation procedures and the various
switch sizes. Remember that the manual switch will have to be operated also
when the utility supply power is back on.
