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How does an Automatic Transfer Switch Work with a Generator?

——YRO ATS Solution brings you a reliable power switching experience

Unplanned outages can disrupt lives and businesses in seconds. That’s why pairing a generator with an automatic transfer switch (ATS) is more than just a precaution—it’s a necessity.

Detailed Workflow of ATS and Generator

In the article “What is an Automatic transfer switch?“, we have introduced the basic working process of generator automatic transfer, but have not elaborated on the specific procedures. Now we will carefully explain to you the standard working process of the automatic transfer switch and the backup generator operating in coordination:

Step 1: Monitor the mains power

The ATS continuously monitors the voltage and frequency of the mains power for stability through its built-in control circuit.

Step 2: Detect faults

When a mains power interruption or abnormal voltage is detected, the uninterruptible power supply immediately sends a start signal to the generator.

Step 3: Generator startup

Upon receiving the signal, the generator gradually starts up. This process is usually completed within 5–30 seconds. This is because a safety delay period is set: before switching the power source, the ATS needs to confirm two critical conditions—first, that the mains power is indeed interrupted (ruling out temporary fluctuations), and second, that the generator has reached normal operating voltage and frequency.

Step 4: Load transfer

Once the generator is running stably, the ATS disconnects the mains power line and connects the generator circuit.

Step 5: Continuous monitoring during generator operation

While the generator supplies power to critical circuits, the ATS continuously monitors both the mains power line and the generator output.

Step 6: Mains power restoration

When the mains power is stably restored, the generator automatic transfer switches the load back to the grid.

Step 7: Generator cooldown

After the ATS completes the mains power switch, the generator enters a cooldown cycle and automatically shuts down once sufficiently cooled to avoid damage caused by overheating.

Step 8: System reset

Finally, the ATS returns to real-time monitoring mode, ready to respond to the next power switching demand.

yro high quality automatic transfer switch

Why Use an ATS with Your Generator?

Integrating an ATS is not just about automation—it’s about protecting your assets. Here are key advantages:

Uninterrupted Operations: No need for manual switching during emergencies.

Safety First: Eliminates risks of backfeeding, electrocution, and equipment damage.

Compliance and Insurance: Meets many safety codes and may reduce insurance costs.

How to Choose the Right ATS for a Generator?

Not all automatic transfer switches are universal. When making a choice, please note:

  • Voltage level matching: ATS should be consistent with the generator output and load requirements.
  • Switching time: The shorter the switching time, the less interrupts can be reduced.
  • Compatibility: Check if single-phase or three-phase output is supported;
  • Enclosure and quality: Select flame-retardant enclosures, industrial-grade relays, and products with CE, UL and other certifications.

The ATS provided by YRO is precisely designed based on the above standards, featuring a compact structure, stable performance, and suitability for various installation environments.

Summary

The combination of automatic transfer switches and generators is a key link to achieve reliable power supply. It offers real-time response, excellent safety performance and uninterrupted switching during power outages, and is widely used in household, industrial and new energy scenarios.

The ATS provided by YRO feature multiple advantages including CE certification, flame-retardant enclosures, and German WEEE compliance. Whether you are a solar installer, electrical engineer, or ordinary household user, we can provide you with professional, safe, and trustworthy automatic transfer solutions.

📌 To learn more about YRO ATS, visit our official website at www.yroenergy.com or contact us via email: [email protected].

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