Troubleshooting
Generator won't transfer? Start here.
If your generator runs but your power doesn't come on, or the power comes back and the generator won't shut off, the transfer switch is the first place to look.
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Symptoms
What it usually means.
Generator runs. Power stays off.
The generator got the start signal, so the switch didn't move the load. Contactor, operator, solenoid or control board.
Power's back. Generator won't stop.
The switch didn't retransfer, or the cool-down signal never cleared. Usually a control or sensing fault.
Outage hits. Generator never starts.
The switch never called for it. Check the start circuit, control wiring and controller before blaming the engine.
Clicking, buzzing, chattering.
A contactor or relay that can't hold in. Low control voltage, a failing coil or worn contacts.
Burn marks or a hot smell.
Loose or overheated terminations. Stop using the circuit and call. This one gets worse fast.
Water, rust or bugs inside.
Moisture and insects kill boards and contactors. Often the reason to replace instead of repair.
Lights flicker on generator.
Could be the generator, the load or the switch contacts. We meter it under load to find out which.
Exercises fine, never tested under load.
Most systems exercise without load. A real transfer test shows whether the switch actually works.
Before you call
Safe checks.
- Read the generator controller for an alarm or fault code and write it down.
- Make sure the generator is in Auto, not Off or Manual.
- Check that the generator's main breaker is on.
- Take a photo of the transfer switch nameplate: brand, model, amps.
Don't open the switch. It can be live from both utility and generator. Burn marks or a hot smell mean stop and call.
By brand
Symptoms by make.
Who answers
A real crew. Not a call center.
Fix My ATS is run by Dixiana Power, a generator company that buys, sells and services standby power equipment. When you send a request, the Dixiana team reads it and calls you back.
No lead auctions. No auto-replies pretending to be a person. Straight answers on what failed and what it costs to fix.