Do You Need a Transfer Switch for Backup Power?

If you're thinking about backup power for your home or business in Columbus, one question comes up fast:
Do I need a transfer switch?
If you want safe, reliable backup power, especially with battery systems, then yes, you do.

What’s a Transfer Switch?

A transfer switch connects your backup power system (like solar batteries or generators) to your main electrical panel.
It safely switches your power source between the grid and your backup system.

Without it?
You risk backfeeding electricity into utility lines, which is dangerous for utility workers and illegal in most places.

Why a Transfer Switch Matters in Columbus

Power outages in Ohio aren’t rare. Severe weather and aging grid infrastructure make it more important than ever to prepare.

A professionally installed transfer switch ensures:

• Safety for your home and utility crews

• Compliance with local codes

• Automatic or manual control over your backup power

In Columbus, utility providers like AEP Ohio and local inspectors expect proper interconnection hardware for solar + battery systems. That includes an approved transfer switch.

Types of Transfer Switches

Here are the two most common:

Manual Transfer Switch

• You flip the switch yourself when the power goes out.

• Lower cost

• Works well with portable generators or basic battery setups

Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)

• Instantly switches to battery or generator power when the grid goes down.

• Essential for full-home backup systems like Sol-Ark or Tesla Powerwall

• Keeps your fridge, lights, and even HVAC running without you lifting a finger

Solar + Battery = Smarter Backup

At BC Solar, we specialize in battery-first solar designs. That means we integrate backup power from the start, not as an afterthought.

We often recommend:

• Sol-Ark hybrid inverters with built-in ATS

• Modular battery systems like EG4 or Fortress Power

• Transfer switches that comply with UL 1008 or UL 1741 for grid interconnection safety.

If you’re planning solar without a transfer switch, you’re not planning for outages.

Cost and Installation

Installing a transfer switch typically adds $500–$2,000 to a backup system, depending on:

• Type (manual vs. automatic)

• Number of circuits or full-panel connection

• Permit and inspection requirements

But it’s a one-time investment that protects your entire system and ensures everything works when it matters most.

FAQ

Can I use solar without a transfer switch?
Yes, but only for grid-tied systems with no backup. If you want backup power, a transfer switch is required.

Does BC Solar install transfer switches?
Absolutely. We design and install custom solar + battery systems across Central Ohio, including transfer switch integration.

What brands do you recommend?
We often use Sol-Ark, Generac, or Eaton, depending on your system and budget.

Do I need a permit for a transfer switch in Columbus?
Yes. We handle all permits and inspections to make sure your system is code-compliant.

Looking for peace of mind when the grid fails?

Give us a call at (614) 442-9700 or visit https://bc.solar. We’ll help you build a solar + backup system you can trust.