An automatic transfer switch consists of an electrical power control device that reroutes electricity under certain power conditions. It enables the safe switching of power from one source to another. Consequently, this ensures a safe and reliable transfer of power while minimizing the risks of fire, damage, or back feeding of power to the utility lines.

An ATS ensures continuity of power to the load. However, the time between loss of power in the utility line and the time the load is connected to the alternative power source remains critical in some applications. For example, a power loss for a few seconds is unacceptable in some hospitals or with emergency equipment. In some of these installations, an intermediate power supply is utilized. These include the battery-based inverter or UPS power to fill the gap between the loss of power and connection to the generator power.

Advanced ATS devices may have the ability to detect the voltage dips characteristic of power failures and automatically start the generator before the utility power goes off completely.

Consumers need to ensure that the ATS will have adequate capacity to handle the generator power. Things to consider include the voltage rating, continuous current rating, and type of load. In addition, consider the mode of transfer, desired transfer time delay, ATS style, and more.

The four main categories of ATS devices are defined by the following transition modes.

Open-transition: The open transaction mode of operation disconnects the primary power before connecting the power from the secondary source. This break-before-make operation means a short duration when there is no connection to either of the power sources.

Fast closed-transition: The ATS is based on the make-before-break switching operation. It parallels the two supplies for about 100 milliseconds after which it disconnects one of the sources. This operation ensures that the load is never disconnected from power.

Soft closed-transition: The soft closed-transition transfer synchronizes generator power with the utility line and then transfers the load from the utility to the generator. When transferring the load back to the utility, follow a similar process.  In this case, the generator output slowly decreases until completely off.

Sub-cycle transfer: These are based on semiconductor switches and are the fastest automatic transfer switches. Upon detecting a power failure, the ATS transfers the load to the other source within the first one-quarter of the electrical cycle. This ensures no power interruption to the load. Sub-cycle ATS devices are the most complex and expensive compared to those using mechanical switches.

Since consumers may not have all the necessary technical knowledge to choose the correct application, it can be a good idea to hire a qualified electrical contractor to select the correct sizing and installation.

We’re excited to announce that we now offer Printed LED Panel Lights for custom backlit signs, trade show and exhibition displays, product advertisements and branding, mobile displays, logos, and so much more! Our user-friendly panel building tool lets you configure a panel in four easy steps. Simply choose your ideal panel size, upload or select an image, edit your image, and choose a frame. You’ll be able to see your panel as a finished product with all chosen options. Compatible accessories will be listed before you reach the checkout page.

There are many aspects of our Printed LED Panel Lights that make them unique. Check out the information below to see why they’re so special.

We offer three types of panels: wall-mount, stand-alone, and 12-volt. These LED panel lights are available in a variety of sizes and are designed specifically for their intended applications.

Stand-alone panels come with a plug and a wire enclosure box. They can be used almost anywhere for any purpose from backlit signs for product showcasing and branding to window signage and custom logo displays on desks and shelves. These panels are available in 2′ x 2′, 2′ x 4′, and 1′ x 4′ sizes.

Summer months are beautiful in Los Angeles. The weather is never too hot and tends to be mild, but there are days when things do heat up and things get a little uncomfortable. Your first reaction may be to go for that air conditioner thermostat and crank it down a few notches as you attempt to cool down your home. But, here is a scenario for you; everybody else has the same idea. That means the electrical grid is getting a real workout and it may even lead to sporadic outages. There is a better option, per your electrician. Los Angeles residents don’t have to run to the thermostat, instead look into a ceiling fan installation. The Electric Connection has been helping southern California residents for years and you can rely on them to help you as well.

Ceiling fans are energy efficient and effective. You don’t have to spike your electric bill because there is a heat wave. Fans installed in your living room, dining room and even in your bedroom can go a long way to keeping you comfortable when the temps are soaring outside. Installation is fairly easy, but should always be handled by an electrician.

Fans stir the air, creating a nice breeze. Combined with an air conditioner, you can easily maintain your comfort without touching the thermostat. The fan blades pull the warm air up and away from where you are sitting or laying. What’s even better, the fans are also beneficial in the cooler months as well. They push the warm air down to where you are.

Because there is some electrical work involved, a Los Angeles electrical professional should do the install. In many cases, electrical wires will need to be brought to the place in the ceiling you have decided you want the fan placed. To make sure your ceiling fan installation is completely safely, give The Electric Connection a call today.

Acquiring a new home in Baltimore is an extremely exciting event for any homeowner. But it can be a time for stress, too. There’s a lot going on—keeping tabs on it all can become a bit overwhelming and, at times, outright frustrating. Because of this, our Baltimore electricians wanted to provide a quick, easy checklist for what you should be checking for in the wiring in your new Baltimore home. 

In the world of Kolb Electric, superior service is the name of the game. We’ve built our reputation of quality and dependability by providing just that! And when it comes to wiring and the electrical needs for your new home, there’s no one better in Maryland.

Keeping NEC codes in mind, unique layouts, etc; wiring can get a little bit complex and confusing. So we’re keeping this one simple, stating the primary and most important goals and methods of wiring a new home.

That got a little confusing, we know. But honestly, there are just loads of factors that come into play with your new wiring. This is why certified and licensed experts are so important! But when you work with the experts at Kolb, our Baltimore electricians can ensure you’re getting everything you want and need out of your new home wiring. Contact us today to learn more!