Never Sit in the Dark Waiting for Generator Startup
When load-shedding hits, someone runs to start the generator, waits for it to warm up, then manually flips the changeover switch. By the time power reaches your home, 5-10 minutes have passed. Automatic transfer switches eliminate this process entirely — detect mains failure, start the generator, transfer the load, and restore power in under 30 seconds. No human intervention required.
HomeMax Smart supplies single-phase and dual-power automatic transfer switches for homes, offices, and commercial buildings across Pakistan — with professional installation in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi.
How Automatic Transfer Switches Work
An ATS sits between your mains supply, generator, and electrical load. Here is what happens during a power outage:
1. ATS detects mains voltage dropping below safe threshold (typically below 170V)
2. ATS sends start signal to generator (if auto-start generator is connected)
3. ATS waits for generator to stabilize (adjustable 5-30 second delay)
4. ATS transfers load from mains to generator supply
5. ATS monitors mains continuously during generator operation
6. When mains returns and stabilizes, ATS transfers load back to mains
7. ATS sends stop signal to generator after cooldown period
The entire process takes 15-45 seconds depending on generator startup time. No one needs to touch a switch.
Types of ATS We Stock
Single Phase Automatic Transfer Switch
The Single Phase ATS 63A (₨18,000) handles up to 63 amps — sufficient for most Pakistani homes. Compact DIN rail mount design fits inside standard distribution boards. Detects mains failure within 1-2 seconds and transfers load automatically. Manual override switch for maintenance.
Dual Power Automatic Transfer Switch
The Dual Power ATS 100A (₨32,000) manages two power sources — mains and generator, or mains and solar inverter. Rated for 100 amps, suitable for large homes and small commercial spaces. Includes built-in voltage monitoring on both sources — only transfers when the backup source is within safe voltage range.
Heavy Duty ATS 200A
The Heavy Duty ATS 200A (₨55,000) handles high-load commercial applications. Factories, large offices, and commercial buildings with multiple ACs, elevators, and heavy machinery. Rated for 200 amps continuous operation. Industrial-grade contactors rated for 100,000+ switching cycles.
ATS — Product Comparison
| Feature | Single Phase ATS 63A | Dual Power ATS 100A | Heavy Duty ATS 200A |
|---|
| Price | Rs 18,000 | Rs 32,000 | Rs 55,000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Current | 63A | 100A | 200A |
| Phase | Single | Single | Single |
| Power Sources | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Voltage Monitoring | Yes | Yes (both sources) | Yes (both sources) |
| Transfer Time | 15-30 sec | 15-30 sec | 15-30 sec |
| Manual Override | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mounting | DIN Rail | Wall Mount | Wall Mount |
| Best For | Homes | Large homes, small offices | Commercial buildings |
Use Cases — Pakistan
Residential Backup Power
- Automatic generator startup and load transfer during load-shedding
- No need to manually start generator or flip changeover switch
- Protects sensitive appliances with voltage monitoring before transfer
- Typical home saves 10-15 minutes per outage in manual labor
Office Continuity
- Servers, computers, and networking equipment stay powered through transitions
- No downtime during power source switching — seamless transfer
- Automatic return to mains when power restores — no staff needed
- Reduced risk of data loss from unexpected shutdowns
Commercial Building Management
- Manage generator, UPS, and mains from one ATS unit
- Sequence multiple generators for staged load pickup
- Prevent generator overload by transferring only critical loads
- Log transfer events for maintenance scheduling and fuel tracking
ATS vs Manual Changeover Switch
| Feature | Manual Changeover | Automatic Transfer Switch |
|---|
| Mains Failure Detection | Manual | Automatic (1-2 sec) |
|---|---|---|
| Generator Startup | Manual | Automatic (auto-start signal) |
| Load Transfer | Manual flip | Automatic |
| Mains Return Detection | Manual | Automatic |
| Generator Shutdown | Manual | Automatic (with cooldown) |
| Transfer Time | 5-10 minutes | 15-30 seconds |
| Human Intervention Required | Yes | No |
| Price | Rs 3,000-8,000 | Rs 18,000-55,000 |
Pakistan-Specific Considerations
Load-Shedding Frequency — Pakistani cities experience 4-12 hours of load-shedding daily depending on season and location. An ATS eliminates the manual process of starting generators and flipping switches — saving time and reducing stress during frequent outages.
Generator Compatibility — Most Pakistani homes use 5kW-15kW diesel or petrol generators. Our ATS units work with any generator that has an auto-start feature or can be fitted with one. If your generator lacks auto-start, HomeMax Smart can install an auto-start module for Rs 8,000-12,000.
Voltage Stabilization — Pakistani grid voltage fluctuates between 180V-260V. ATS units with dual-source voltage monitoring ensure the generator produces stable voltage before transferring the load. This prevents damage to sensitive appliances during source switching.
Installation Requirements — ATS installation requires a qualified electrician. HomeMax Smart provides professional installation with proper cable sizing, earthing, and circuit protection. Typical installation takes 3-4 hours for residential setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ATS take to transfer power during load-shedding?
Detection takes 1-2 seconds. Generator startup takes 10-20 seconds. Total transfer time is 15-45 seconds depending on your generator. Compared to 5-10 minutes for manual switching, ATS saves significant time during each outage.
Can ATS work with my existing generator?
Yes. ATS units work with any generator. If your generator has auto-start capability, the ATS connects directly. If not, HomeMax Smart can install an auto-start module for Rs 8,000-12,000 that adds auto-start functionality to manual generators.
What happens when mains power returns?
ATS detects mains voltage stabilizing above 180V for a configurable delay period (default 60 seconds). It then transfers load back to mains and sends a stop signal to the generator. Generator runs for a cooldown period (default 3 minutes) before shutting down. Entire process is automatic.