What transfer equipment does
Transfer equipment safely selects the utility source or generator source for the circuits it serves. Manual transfer switches and panel interlocks require an owner to operate equipment as instructed. An automatic transfer switch can move between sources with compatible generator controls. The exact equipment must be selected for the generator, electrical service, panel, load plan, and local approval.
Never connect generator power by plugging into a household wall outlet. CPSC and ESFI warn that improper backfeeding can energize utility wiring and endanger line workers and others. This guide is not wiring instruction; transfer-equipment work must be planned and installed by a qualified electrician.
Common equipment types
| Equipment | Operation | Questions to resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Manual transfer switch | Selects approved circuits manually between utility and generator. | Circuit coverage, current rating, generator connection, and operating steps. |
| Automatic transfer switch (ATS) | Transfers sources automatically with compatible generator controls. | Service rating, amperage, selected vs. whole-panel scope, and included control/load-management equipment. |
| Panel interlock kit | Provides a manual panel-specific breaker interlock where the equipment is listed/approved for the exact panel and allowed locally. | Panel compatibility, breaker/inlet ratings, professional installation, permits, and user load management. |
| Generator inlet and cord connection | Provides the connection point for portable-generator equipment as part of an approved transfer arrangement. | Outdoor rating, grounding/neutral instructions, conductor size, and safe source isolation. |
“Transfer switch” is often used broadly in retail listings. Ask for the exact component model, the circuits it serves, and whether it is manual or automatic.
Published cost references
HomeGuide’s cost guide, published December 30, 2025, lists a planning range of $600–$2,500 for automatic transfer-switch installation. The same guide gives an installed $400–$850 reference for a generator interlock. Those are broad published estimates, not current local bids; device rating, panel compatibility, wiring route, labor, permits, and existing equipment change the work.
Do not interpret these as directly comparable equipment prices. An ATS could be a large service-rated device, an interlock is panel-specific and manual, and an inlet/wiring job may be quoted separately or bundled. The quote should show which parts and work are included.
Exact model examples show why bundle scope matters
- Generac G0073270: its model-family specification sheet says a 200 A service-rated transfer switch is included in bundled models. The G0073270 product page does not establish that a switch is included with the displayed starting MSRP.
- KOHLER 26RCA/26RCAL: the official specification sheet says the 26RCAL package includes a 200 A service-entrance-rated RXT ATS; 26RCA is also listed as a separate generator-set configuration.
- Champion 201222: the manufacturer describes this system as including a 200 A aXis ATS. Its published warranty terms distinguish generator coverage from ATS coverage.
These are examples from different packages, not a price comparison. Review the Generac, KOHLER, and Champion source-linked model pages before comparing dealer proposals.
Questions for the electrical contractor
- What is the exact transfer switch/interlock/inlet model and current rating?
- Does the equipment serve selected circuits, the whole panel, or service entrance—and what is not backed up?
- Is the proposed device compatible and approved for this exact panel, generator, and service?
- Which loads can operate together, and what must be turned off or sequenced manually?
- Are wiring, trenching, panel changes, grounding/neutral configuration, permits, inspections, and labels included?
- Who commissions the system, demonstrates safe operation, and handles future service?
Ask a licensed electrician to explain the proposed design. See our manual-switch/interlock comparison and installation cost breakdown for related planning context.