Generator Connection Parklands | Changeover Switch, ATS Installation

About Generator Connection / Changeover Switch in Parklands

If you own a generator or are planning to purchase one, connecting it safely to your home or business electrical system is essential. Simply plugging a generator into a wall socket through an extension lead is extremely dangerous. It can back-feed electricity into the municipal grid, putting Eskom workers and neighbours at risk of electrocution. The correct method is a changeover switch or automatic transfer switch (ATS) that safely isolates your property from the grid when the generator is running.

Abacas Solution installs manual and automatic changeover switches in Parklands that connect your generator to your DB board safely and compliantly. A manual changeover switch requires you to physically flip the switch when you start your generator. An automatic transfer switch (ATS) detects the power outage, starts the generator automatically, transfers the load, and reverses the process when grid power returns. Both options completely isolate your property from the Eskom grid during generator operation, preventing dangerous back-feed.

Our registered electricians in Parklands size the changeover switch for your generator capacity, install the switch at or near the DB board, run the generator supply cable to a weatherproof inlet box outside your home, and test the complete changeover sequence. We also advise on generator placement, ventilation, and earthing requirements. For businesses, we install three-phase changeover switches and can set up load management to prioritise critical circuits.

This is one of several specialist services we offer under solar & backup power in Parklands. As part of our Parklands electrical team, we bring over 25 years of hands-on experience to every job.

Generator Connection / Changeover Switch in Parklands - Abacas Solution

When to Call for Generator Connection / Changeover Switch

Call if you have purchased a generator and need it connected safely to your home or business, if you currently use extension leads from your generator (dangerous and illegal), if you want to upgrade from a manual to an automatic changeover switch, or if you are a business needing reliable automatic backup power.

Our Generator Connection / Changeover Switch Process

1

Generator Assessment

We check your generator's capacity (kVA), output type (single or three-phase), and determine which circuits you want to power during outages.

2

Changeover Switch Selection

We recommend a manual or automatic changeover switch rated for your generator and loads, ensuring it meets SANS 10142-1 requirements.

3

Installation and Wiring

We install the changeover switch at the DB board, run supply cabling to a weatherproof generator inlet, and earth the system correctly.

4

Testing and Handover

We test the full changeover sequence with your generator running, verify isolation from the grid, and demonstrate safe operation procedures to you.

Property owners in Parklands often combine generator connection / changeover switch with solar panel installation in Parklands and inverter installation. We handle everything, so you only need one call.

Safety & Compliance

Connecting a generator without a proper changeover switch is illegal and life-threatening. Back-feeding through a standard socket energises the municipal distribution lines, which can kill utility workers, neighbours, and anyone near the lines. The changeover switch must provide complete isolation between generator and grid supplies. SANS 10142-1 requires that generator connections include a changeover switch and proper earthing. Generator exhaust contains lethal carbon monoxide, so generators must never be operated indoors or in enclosed spaces. Abacas Solution ensures all generator connections are safe, legal, and compliant.

Generator Connection / Changeover Switch Cost in Parklands

A manual changeover switch installation costs approximately R3,000 to R6,000 depending on the switch rating and cable run distance. An automatic transfer switch (ATS) costs R8,000 to R20,000 depending on the capacity and brand. Three-phase changeover switches for commercial properties range from R15,000 to R35,000. The generator inlet box and supply cable add R1,000 to R3,000 depending on the distance between the generator position and the DB board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just plug my generator into a wall socket?

Absolutely not. This is called back-feeding and is extremely dangerous. It sends electricity back into the municipal grid, which can electrocute utility workers and neighbours. A changeover switch is the only safe and legal way to connect a generator to your home. Call us on 067 071 9472 for a proper installation.

What is the difference between a manual and automatic changeover switch?

A manual changeover switch requires you to flip the switch when you start and stop your generator. An automatic transfer switch (ATS) detects the outage, starts the generator, transfers the load, and reverses everything when grid power returns, all without your intervention. ATS is more convenient but costs more.

What size changeover switch do I need in Parklands?

The changeover switch must be rated to match or exceed your generator's output capacity. For a typical 5kVA residential generator, a 40A changeover switch is appropriate. For larger generators, we size the switch accordingly. We assess your setup and recommend the correct rating.

Can I run my whole house on a generator?

It depends on your generator size. A 5kVA generator can run lights, TV, fridge, and a few appliances but not high-draw items like geysers or stoves. A 10kVA+ generator can power most household circuits. We configure the changeover switch to prioritise your most important circuits.