Blog posts of '2026' 'October'

When there is a power cut, a large number of people go to a generator. The next thing to consider is how to safely connect the generator to the building. At Blades Power Generation, we design and provide the switches which solve this problem, and a manual changeover switch is usually the best starting point. 

Why Backfeeding Is the Risk to Avoid

Backfeeding occurs when the power produced by the generator is fed back into the electrical supply network. Repairmen working on damaged lines could then come into contact with live cables. In order to prevent this, an interlocked switch shuts off that route, so that the only thing the generator supplies is your building.

That is why we recommend switching to proper connections instead of using improvised ones.

The Benefits of a Manual Changeover Switch

A well-built changeover panel gives you several practical advantages:

·        When switching over, you make the transition from utility power to generator power in a clear and deliberate manner.

·        There is an interlock protection feature which prevents the main supply and the generator supply from being connected simultaneously.

·        The design is cost-effective for sites that have a planned maintenance schedule.

A manual changeover switch is suitable in the case where someone is available on site to operate it and when a brief delay in power supply can be tolerated; a workshop having staff on site is an example of this. An automatic transfer switch, on the other hand, picks up a failure of the main power supply and switches your load over to the generator within a few seconds without any need for manual action. That option suits sites where nobody may be there when the power drops.

We supply both types, and we pair either one with generators from our range, including new generators for sale in the UK.

Quick Answers

What size switch do I need?

The right rating depends on your generator output and your site load. Our engineers can help you specify it.

Can I add an automatic switch later?

You can choose an automatic transfer switch at the start or review your options as your needs change. We can talk you through both routes.

If you search for new generators for sale in the UK, look at the switch as closely as the engine. 

Your backup power works best when the generator and switch suit each other. Browse our manual transfer switches by amp rating, or configure a full generator system with Blades Power Generation today. Pick your rating, choose your generator and secure your supply before the next outage arrives.

 

Most people searching for backup power start with the generator. The switch comes later, and that is where many projects stall. An undersized switch overheats, and a mismatched one will not suit your supply at all. If you plan to buy anAutomatic Transfer Switch in the UK, the amp rating is your first decision. The switch must carry the full load of your site without strain.

What does an automatic transfer switch do?

An automatic transfer switch (ATS) watches your mains supply. You do not need to touch anything.

 

Our ATS panels also provide a safe link between the two supplies. That protects your equipment, and it protects engineers working on the network.

 

A 100A switch would then be the sensible starting point. We offer panels by amp rating, so you can match the figure closely.

Single-phase or three-phase?

We supply and install ATS panels for both. Your electricity supply decides which one you need, so check your meter or your distribution board first.

 

Our home and small business packages pair an 8 to 22kW single-phase generator with a 63 to 100A ATS. For commercial and industrial sites, we offer three-phase generator sets with a rated ATS. Deep Sea monitoring and maintenance bypass options are available on those systems.

Buying the generator and the switch together

Many customers ask us about used generators for sale in the UK. A used set can lower your upfront cost, and the same sizing rules apply. You still match the switch to the generator and to your site.

What makes our panels different?

Blades Power Generation designs and builds control panels, distribution boards and generator enclosures to IP65 or higher. We manufacture them in steel enclosures for demanding environments, and we build to BS EN and IEC standards. Our panels are UK-engineered.

 

We have worked in this field for over 15 years and have delivered more than 5,000 systems. We dispatch nationwide, and trade and bulk pricing is available for contractors.

 

If you are comparing used generators for sale in the UK, we can check that the set suits your site and pair it with a correctly rated ATS panel.

FAQs

What amp rating do I need?

Base it on your maximum load and your generator output. For home and small business use, our packages pair 63 to 100A switches with single-phase generators.

How fast does an ATS switch over?

Our automatic transfer switches move your load to the backup supply within seconds of detecting a mains failure.

Does Blades Power Generation sell the ATS on its own?

Yes. If you already own a generator, you can order the panel alone by amp rating.

 

When you are ready to buy an Automatic Transfer Switch in the UK, we at Blades PowerGeneration will match the panel to your phase, load and generator so it works from day one.