Frequently Asked Questions
<< back

Safety switch versus transfer switch: What’s the difference?

In simple terms, a transfer switch is designed to operate while subjected to electrical current, while a safety switch is not. Unfortunately, safety switches are still occasionally substituted for transfer switches due to their lower cost. Please note that this practice is substandard and often leads to dangerous arcing, resulting in fire hazards and premature switch failure. Therefore, only true transfer switches with high-speed, low-resistance alloy contactors should be used for standby generator installations.