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A dedicated backup generator is a must-have for any house or business to handle power outages. However, the process of switching from the primary supply to the backup generator is often a cumbersome process that takes much time and sweat. To tackle this problem, many houses and offices have installed an automatic transfer switch to automate this entire process. 

An automatic transfer switch is an electrical device that switches between primary and emergency power sources in the event of an outage. It does this without any human intervention and ensures a continuous power supply. With one of these, you never need to move a finger when the power goes out. 

Installing an automatic transfer switch can prove very helpful in emergency situations for - 

1. Protecting Equipment - Power surges or sudden outages can often damage appliances and electronics. An automatic transfer switch avoids this and thus greatly lowers money spent on repairs.

2.  Safety - By removing the need to switch supplies manually, oftentimes in darkness, an automatic transfer switch drastically improves safety and reduces the risk of injury or fire.

3.  Eco Friendliness - One of the most persistent problems with renewable energy, such as rooftop solar panels, is the constant interruption of power. Since solar panels don’t work at night, when it’s cloudy or during a storm, they often become a hassle since one has to keep switching the power supply. But with an automatic transfer switch, rooftop solar suddenly becomes much more feasible, as the switch seamlessly transfers supplies. This allows you to generate power even from small periods of sunshine and is a big part of any home-based renewable energy system. 

4.  Continuity - Since an automatic transfer switch works instantly and seamlessly, there is no interruption of power to the device in an outage. This enables continuity of operations. For example, someone working on their computer won’t lose all their work in a sudden outage. 

5. Convenience - Most of all, an automatic transfer switch is simply convenient and lowers the hassle and disruption to you when the power goes out. You no longer have to go down to the basement in darkness to fiddle with switches. 

An automatic transfer switch is a crucial part of any backup generator system. At Blades Power Generation, we provide not just switches, but cater to all your power generation and power backup needs for your residential and commercial properties. So if you need to buy a new generator in the UK, you’ll find those too here.

Nothing runs without electricity these days. You can imagine the inconvenience and disruption when the grid fails; so investing in an emergency power source and forestalling these issues is a wise idea. Keep reading ahead to find out more about where to get the best emergency power source in the UK and what to look for when buying.

Emergency power sources come in wide varieties. Some common types include - generators, solar panels, battery backup systems and many others. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Moreover, you will need to carefully weigh these before choosing. 

You will also need to find an emergency power source that will be useful for your specific preferences. However, there are some universal metrics that you should be aware of and consider when making your decision - 

1. Capacity - This is the amount of power the best emergency power source in the UK is capable of generating. You should ensure this is sufficient to handle the load, especially for businesses. 

2. Operation Time - Depending on the region and reliability of the grid, you may require an emergency power source for half an hour or for a whole day. Make sure you get one which runs for a decent amount of time without overheating or running out of power. 

3. Noise - Generators can be quite noisy, so you should test the loudness before purchasing them. You can also put the generator in a basement or attic to minimise disturbance from noise. 

4. Maintenance - Every system requires periodic maintenance, and emergency power sources are no exception. Ensure that suitable spare parts and trained personnel are available for maintenance in your area. 

5. Cost - The final consideration is how much the system costs, which includes not just upfront costs but also running and maintenance costs. Make sure it’s all in your budget, but also remember that sometimes, spending more on a quality system now can save a lot of money on maintenance and fuel over the long term. Also, second-hand systems can be cheaper, so you can also look for used generators for sale in the UK. 

An emergency power source is a must in all homes, businesses and factories to make sure there are no major disruptions. Blades Power Generation has a large selection of different generators, switches, systems and other components. Click here to check it out, and make sure you’re never left in the dark again!

It’s a fact of life that virtually all of us take electricity for granted. When we switch a light on we don’t think about what powers it: we just expect the light to come on. In fact, if it doesn’t come on it would be something of a shock, and yet power outages can and do happen. Consider the storms recently in Scotland and the North of England which have brought down power lines and left some people without any power for days. Climate change seems to indicate that this will be happening more often.

This is why more and more people today are buying a generator for their home so that they can have power without necessarily having to rely on the local utility. Buying a standby generator obviously involves a cost. This will be dictated to some extent by the amount of power that you need for your home. The bigger the generator the more power it can produce, and the more it will cost to purchase.

However, you don’t necessarily have to invest in a new generator because there is a second-hand market in these in just the same way as cars. At Blades Power Generation we have used generators for sale, which obviously cost less than brand new.

These used generators work just as well as a new one, and of course we have checked them over before offering them for sale. There are a number of reasons why these are available, but one that happens often is that a business that uses generators will expand and need more capacity. Hence that business has to invest in a bigger generator and will trade in the old one with us in part exchange.

You Will Need A Transfer Switch

When you buy a standby generator, you will need a transfer switch in order to switch from mains power to the generator when the mains goes down, and back again when it comes on. There are two choices – a manual changeover switch or an automatic one.

When you have a manual changeover switch you have to go outside to fire up your generator and then manually switch over when it is up and running. You also have to switch back when the mains power comes on again. This is OK if you are at home when it happens, but if you happen to be away for the weekend or whatever, you could lose all the food in your freezer! An automatic changeover switch will save you all these sorts of issues.

Generators for the home have become increasingly popular in recent years as people seek to ensure that their homes have a reliable source of electricity in the event of a power outage. These generators are particularly useful in areas that are prone to severe weather conditions such as Northern Scotland, or where power outages are common. One of the most important components of a home generator system is the automatic changeover switch, which allows for seamless switching between the main power supply and the generator.

Automatic changeover switches are designed to ensure that the generator is activated automatically when there is a power outage. This means that homeowners don't need to worry about manually starting the generator and can rest assured that their homes will have electricity even when the mains power supply is disrupted. Automatic changeover switches are typically installed by an electrician and are connected to the home's electrical panel. When the switch detects a power outage, it automatically switches the power supply to the generator.

One of the advantages of using an automatic changeover switch is that it ensures a seamless transition between the mains power supply and the generator. This means that there is no interruption to power supply, and homeowners can continue to use their electrical appliances without any interruption. It also ensures that the generator is not overloaded, which could lead to damage and potential safety hazards.

Another important aspect of home generators is the use of new generators, which are designed to be more efficient and reliable than older models. New generatorsuse advanced technology to produce electricity more efficiently, which means that they use less fuel and produce fewer emissions. They are also designed to be quieter, which is an important consideration for homeowners who want to use their generators without disturbing their neighbours.

More Reliable

New generators are also more reliable than older models. They are equipped with advanced safety features that protect against damage from overloading or overheating, and they are designed to be easy to maintain. This means that homeowners can be confident that their generators will work when they need them, without the need for frequent repairs or maintenance.

When selecting a generator for their home, homeowners should consider a range of factors, including the size of their home, the power requirements of their appliances, and their budget. They should also consider the type of fuel that the generator uses, as this can affect both the cost and the efficiency of the system. Some generators run on diesel, while others use natural gas or propane. Each type of fuel has its own advantages and disadvantages, so homeowners should carefully consider their options before making a decision.

In conclusion, generators for the home are an important investment for homeowners who want to ensure that their homes have a reliable source of electricity in the event of a power outage. 

Today as lives are powered by electronic appliances, it has become necessary to have an alternative source of electricity at all times. Moreover, to mitigate disruptions caused by power cuts, a backup power source is essential for smooth functioning and to keep productivity at its highest. The most common alternative power sources are generators or battery backup.

A manual transfer switch or MTS is used in diesel generators to switch between the primary power source and a generator in the event of power outages. Here, you must manually turn a handle or an alternative lever to switch on the generator. 

Advantages of an MTS:

If you are looking for a reliable backup power source within a budget, your search ends with a manual changeover switch. Here are eight benefits of using an MTS for your home and business:

1. Manual changeover switch has a longer life span.
2. They are convenient and best for use at homes or other spaces that do not require super-fast power transfer load shedding.
3. MTSs are inexpensive and suitable for all budgets.
4. The manual changeover switch is resistant to high voltage and has high mechanical endurance. They are not easily affected by frequency variations and are a reliable option with security.
5. They are easy to install as no programming is needed.
6. Manual changeover switches are easy to maintain.
7. They are smaller in size and have a single-pole erection. Hence, there is no need to use unnecessary fixing sets for connections. 
8. MTSs also help save energy by reducing the loss of power.

Disadvantages of an MTS:

Like all other equipment, a manual changeover switch also has some limitations, such as:

1. Someone must switch on an MTS manually.
2. The changeover time required is longer, especially if the generator is away from the building.

Although there are some drawbacks of an MTS, the advantages outweigh its limitations. 

In the end:

Be it a residential or commercial space, a 24/7 power supply is necessary. Since you cannot control power cuts, you can ensure a constant source of electricity for your facility by investing in a manual transfer switch. We offer state-of-the-art power backup to our large clientele ranging from homeowners or businesses. If you are tight on the budget and looking for inexpensive options, buy used UK generators from Blades Power Generation and light up your homes forever. 

Do you also hate power cuts? They are sure annoying, especially when 24/7 connectivity has become the way of life. ATS or automation transfer switch can come to your rescue during  load shedding. But what is an ATS? 

ATS is a switch that automatically transfers power from a standby system to the main source during power outages. These switches are connected between the primary and backup power sources. Hence, they act as an intermediary between the equipment and the power supplies, acting as an electrical relay. It can switch & control between the two power sources within a few seconds.

An ATS can also start up more long-term backup power systems, such as local diesel generators, to run electric equipment until utility power is restored. These switches are simple and reliable equipment that ensures an uninterrupted power supply. There are three types of ATS, namely, contactor ATS, compact ATS and circuit breaker ATS. 

Additionally, an automatic transfer switch includes built-in sensors that identify the power outage and fluctuations within the frequency of the main power supply & voltage. It also helps start a standby generator automatically whenever there is a power outage from the main supply. Although these switches are expensive and high-maintenance, the ample advantages make them a worthy investment. 

Where is an ATS used?

 The uses of an ATS are as follows:

1. ATS is used in essential public facilities to ensure unhindered operations, such as schools, malls, hospitals, restaurants, warehouses, factories, medical buildings, etc.
2. It is used to protect telecommunication & data networks, industrial processes & critical installations like financial transaction centres & healthcare facilities.
3. Other electricity switching applications, like three-source, generator-to-generator, and utility-to-utility systems, also use ATS.
4. Finally, ATS is used to transfer power from two sources, such as the primary and backup sources. 

The use of an ATS is not limited to commercial spaces. You can also use an automatic transfer switch at residential properties. 

Wrapping up:

Whether you are starting a cafe or opening a new factory, a constant power supply is a must. However, there could be periods of prolonged power cuts, and it is always better to be prepared than sorry. Blades Power Generation provides the best emergency power source in the UK. Several homeowners and organisations rely on us for emergency power during blackouts. Now it is your turn! Get in touch with us to learn more. 

Whether you are running a business or a home, power is something that we all depend on. Even a few minutes without power can cause immense problems in some situations. New generators for sale in the UK are a good choice if you would rather avoid power outages. However, before you buy, there are certain things you need to consider about a generator.

The Key Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Generator

1. Load BankTesting: A load bank unit is designed to accurately replicate the operating load your generator will reach during operation. A large boiler matches the generator's output and ensures that the generator does not wear out to the point where one day, it is no longer able to supply power to the building and is consequently shut down.

2. Age, operating hours, and usage: The first thing to check is the generator's operating hours, age, and history. You need to check how many hours the generator has been in use and how much fuel it consumes. Usually, generators are like cars and have an odometer. A generator used as a standby or backup power source is usually better maintained and has much less wear and tear than a generator used as a primary power source. Only those with technical expertise know the full features and specifications of generators. Therefore, you should seek advice from a professional before buying new generators for sale in the UK.

3. Fuel tank capacity and litres per operating hour: You want a generator that is economical in consumption but also one that holds a reasonable amount of fuel. Some generators adjust their engine speed (RPM) to the load demand to increase fuel efficiency. Both fuel efficiency and fuel tank size affect running time. You'll find the generator's running time under the respective unit's technical data.

4. The manufacturer's reputation: If you want to buy a new generator, you should find out about the manufacturer's history and reputation. Manufacturers with poor reviews or low reputations should be avoided. It's better to invest and be assured that you have chosen a trustworthy manufacturer with a good reputation for producing reliable equipment.

5. Visual inspection: If not you, trained personnel should inspect all mechanical components of a generator for wear or fatigue, including whether any parts are cracked or corroded corrosion build-up. Any parts found to be questionable should always be replaced. The bearings and bushings should also be returned as they are challenging to test for wear and tear – so it's best to replace them regardless of their function or condition.

Now that you know what factors you must consider before investing in a new generator, visit Blades Power Generation to receive relentless generator service; we have the best emergency power source in the UK. With our vast range of products, you will never run out of power, literally!

The manual transfer switch simply connects the home circuit to the generator. In the event of a power outage, the operator should turn on the backup power supply so that the backup power supply turns on all loads connected to the circuit. This switch can be easily used indoors and outdoors. You can manually connect the number of circuits based on the generator power. 

A Lifesaver in Disguise

Manual transfer switching (MTS) is a lifesaver when you need a safe and very fast power supply. Therefore, choosing the right size manual toggle switch can be difficult, especially when the supply capacity required for the building is unknown.

Selecting a manual transfer switch mainly depends on various parameters, such as an amplifier, circuit, and power supply. Take a look: 

Amp

The use of this switch mainly depends on the size of the generator and the properties you have, so a small or large manual transfer switch is used. Larger switches draw more amperes, and smaller switches draw fewer amperes. 

For example, a large company with large stores with multiple systems will need a larger manual transfer switch due to the use of larger generators.

Circuit

Some business owners may choose to power more circuits than their competitors during a power outage. Regardless of the cause or duration of the power outage, there is a need to power a variety of systems critical to daily operations. So manual switches handle a lot of dedicated switching.

Wattage

The wattage required for a generator to operate safely depends primarily on the electrical capacity of the building and the number of circuits it runs. If you need to control more circuits, you need maximum wattage

Watt meter

Many manual switchers have built-in power meters that track what is being powered. Without a power meter, the system can be overloaded and damage your device or generator.

Things to Remember

Do not connect the generator directly to a household outlet. It is called back feeding. It may cause an electric shock or a house fire. Proper installation of these switches can therefore eliminate these risks. 

Take away 

Several options are available for automatic changeover switches, but using manual switches has many advantages. They ensure better security, easier powering of wired devices such as air conditioners, and connectivity across service panels. 

Visit Blades Power Generation for a variety of manual transfer switches and build your understanding of the product based on your needs and budget.

It was William Shakespeare who wrote the words “Now is our winter of discontent” in his ‘Richard III’. However, in this instance he was referring to times being good, because those words were followed by “Made glorious summer by this sun of York”. It was a reference to the accession to the throne of Edward of the House of York. So, things were much better.

Unfortunately, in the UK at the moment, it seems we are only at the beginning of our winter of discontent, with all the strikes that are going on, the price of electricity, and the likelihood that we might not even have any. Heck, they’ve been without electricity on Shetland for four days now as I write this.

However, some of the residents of Shetland will be fine and have no issues. Why? Because they have their own power generator, so when the lights go out, they can keep theirs on. This is why so many people are beginning to sit up and take notice and are making enquiries about buying their own generator.

We have always taken electricity for granted for the last 100+ years, but it seems that that is no longer the case. And we don’t want to be sitting in a dark house freezing to death just because there is no power.

If you are one of those people thinking of doing something about it, why not consider the fact that you can buy used generators in the UK? Yes, at Blades Power Generation you can do exactly that: buy used generators in the UK. We have always got used generators for sale because people trade them in when they buy a new one. It’s exactly the same as buying a used car, which is what many people also do.

Why do some people buy a new generator? Well, many businesses that use them will expand, and when they do that, they may need a bigger generator to cope with their needs. That means that there is a second-hand market in generators. OK, they may have a few scratches or a dent in the bodywork, but so what? They still work!

If you do buy a used generator, you will need a changeover switch. The cheapest sort is a manual changeover switch as opposed to automatic. If you use a manual changeover switch you will need to fire up the generator yourself before you can switch over to it, but it is a lot less expensive than an automatic switch.

Do you remember the summer, when the days were non-stop sunshine, and it didn’t rain? It suddenly seems like a very distant memory, doesn’t it? Here we are, in the depths of winter, although as yet it hasn’t got really cold in some parts of the country. However, in the last few days, some places in Scotland have been around minus 15C. That’s no fun whatsoever if it happens that you also have a power cut.

Unfortunately, the possibility of power cuts is also on the cards. What with the shortage of gas and the horrendous increase in the cost of electricity, those bills are going to get ever bigger. If you think that is only temporary and the price may come down, think of this: when was the last time you saw prices of anything going down? Never mind electricity. Once they go up, they stay up.

This is why more and more people are thinking of investing in their own generator as the best emergency power source in the UK. And not just as an emergency power source, but as an alternative. Let’s face it: it is going to be a lot cheaper to run your own generator rather than pay inflated electricity bills. So rather than using a generator as the best emergency power source in the UK, a lot of people are considering saying goodbye to those bills by using one all the time. And why not?

Similar To Using Your Own Car

It is similar to having your own transport. Rather than using the trains (if you are lucky enough to find one running!), it is cheaper and far more convenient to drive your own car. And once you have your own car, you don’t need trains or buses. Goodbye, Mr Lynch.

If you invest in a generator, you will need a transfer switch. You have a choice of a manual or automatic transfer switch, but although a bit more expensive, an automatic switch is the way to go. If you have a manual one, you have to go out into the garden and fire up the generator yourself (no fun if it’s pouring with rain) before you can manually switch over to the generator from the mains.

An automatic transfer switch does it all for you. Fires up the generator as soon as the power goes down, and then when it’s up and running switches over to it. The lights will be back on in seconds – and you won’t spoil your dinner cooking in the oven.