When the grid goes dark, the last thing any homeowner wants is a tangle of extension cords and guesswork. A professionally wired generator transfer switch keeps essential circuits energized without risking back-feed or code violations. CountBricks has helped thousands of San Diego–area homeowners integrate standby and portable generators safely, and our AI estimating platform delivers real-time material lists, labor hours, and pricing before work even begins.
A transfer switch is an electrical device that redirects a home’s selected circuits from utility power to generator power. It eliminates the need to plug appliances into individual cords and prevents electricity from traveling back through the service lines, protecting utility workers and your equipment.
• Safe isolation between utility and generator sources
• Automatic or manual switching depending on the homeowner’s budget and comfort level
• Seamless power to critical loads like refrigerators, HVAC blowers, medical devices, and Wi-Fi routers
• Compliance with NEC requirements and local San Diego building codes
Our keyword research for “wiring generator transfer switch” shows most users are homeowners or small contractors seeking step-by-step guidance, cost clarity, and local code insights. CountBricks meets that intent by combining on-site expertise with AI-generated estimates, giving clients transparent numbers and timelines in minutes.
A budget-friendly panel with a mechanical switch that the homeowner flips when the generator is running.
• Senses utility failure and commands the standby generator to start
• Transfers selected circuits automatically, then returns to utility power once service is restored
• Ideal for whole-home or partial-home backup systems
An economical solution that adds a sliding mechanism to the main breaker panel. While legal in many jurisdictions, San Diego inspectors often prefer a dedicated transfer switch for clarity and safety. CountBricks advisors guide you to the best option based on square footage, generator size, and future expansion.
1. Speak your project into the CountBricks app or call our estimator directly.
2. Our AI engine converts conversation to a detailed scope, identifies tasks such as conduit runs, breaker sizing, and ATS amperage.
3. Real-time material pricing and labor rates update automatically from local suppliers.
4. You receive a shareable proposal and timeline within minutes, complete with optional upgrades like Wi-Fi monitoring or surge protection.
• No surprises—material substitution and labor fluctuations are updated daily
• Side-by-side comparison of manual vs. automatic switch packages
• Secure e-signature and deposit payment without back-and-forth paperwork
1. Site Assessment: A CountBricks technician confirms generator location, clearance, and bonding requirements.
2. Load Calculation: Our software maps your panel, flags critical circuits, and sizes the switch (30–200 amps).
3. Permit Submission: We generate permit PDFs directly from the takeoff and submit to the San Diego Development Services portal.
4. Rough-In: Conduit, weatherproof fittings, and cabling are installed. We use color-coded conductors to simplify inspections.
5. Switch Mounting & Wiring: The ATS or manual switch is secured near the service panel, and conductors are landed on labeled lugs.
6. Testing & Commissioning: We simulate power loss, verify transfer times, and program exercise schedules for standby units.
7. Final Walk-Through: Homeowner receives a tutorial on safe operation and maintenance reminders via the CountBricks mobile dashboard.
• Manual 30-amp switch (labor + materials): $1,100 – $1,800
• 100-amp ATS for standby generator: $2,800 – $4,500
• Whole-home 200-amp service upgrade with ATS: $6,500 – $9,000
Real-time pricing may vary. Generate an exact figure at CountBricks.com/services.
• Neutral/Ground Separation: Shared neutrals improperly landed on ground bars create shock risk.
• Bonding Jumpers: Missing bonding straps between metallic raceways and enclosures lead to failed inspections.
• Clearance & Labeling: NEC 110.26 working space and switch labeling must be maintained.
• Schedule inspections early in the week to reduce re-check delays
• Have torque specs and a calibrated torque screwdriver on site
• Photograph each conductor termination for your digital project record
Solar arrays, battery storage, and electric vehicles all interact with service panels differently. CountBricks engineers can integrate these technologies by installing service-rated ATS equipment and smart load-shedding modules, ensuring your transfer switch remains compliant as your home evolves.
Generate your personalized “wiring generator transfer switch” estimate in under five minutes at CountBricks.com/consultation or speak directly with a residential power specialist today. CountBricks brings clarity, speed, and craftsmanship to every backup power project.
When seasonal outages started spoiling food and interrupting Zoom calls, a Mission Hills homeowner turned to CountBricks for help. Our estimator captured the full conversation—generator size, preferred circuits, and future solar plans—via a five-minute phone call. The AI engine produced three package options:
• Essential Loads: 60-amp manual switch running fridge, modem, and lighting for $1,450
• Comfort Plus: 100-amp automatic switch with HVAC blower for $3,600
• Whole-Home Ready: 200-amp service upgrade plus ATS for $7,850
The client chose Comfort Plus. Within 48 hours permits were approved, thanks to CountBricks’ pre-filled documents. Installation took one day, and our technician used color-coded THHN and labeled each circuit, impressing the city inspector. During the first outage the ATS transferred in 11 seconds, and the homeowner received a push notification through the CountBricks dashboard confirming seamless operation.
• Early load calculations avoid oversizing generators and save thousands
• Digital torque tracking speeds inspections by proving every lug meets spec
• Real-time material pricing protected the client from copper price spikes between estimate and install
CountBricks can retrofit Wi-Fi monitoring modules, battery storage, or smart load centers to any installed transfer switch. Schedule an upgrade review at CountBricks.com/portfolio and stay a step ahead of future energy needs.
1. Capture your project goals via our voice-first estimator.
2. Review a detailed, line-item proposal—no spreadsheets required.
3. Select a schedule that fits your lifestyle; our crews work evenings and weekends at no extra charge.
CountBricks is redefining residential construction one intelligent estimate at a time. Get started today.
