OPTION 1: Home Standby Generator ▼

• Automatic Power Restoration:

  • Your home standby generator kicks on automatically within seconds of an outage—no manual start required. You'll barely notice the power went out while your neighbors are scrambling for flashlights.

• Whole Home Protection:

  • Unlike portable generators, home standby standby systems power your entire home. Keep your heating and cooling running, preserve food in your refrigerator, maintain medical equipment, stay connected to the outside world, and more.

• Built for Minnesota Weather:

  • Home standby generators are engineered to withstand harsh conditions, including the brutal winters we experience on the Iron Range. Rain, snow, ice, or extreme cold—your generator keeps running when you need it most.

• Increased Home Value:

  • A professionally installed standby generator is a valuable home improvement that appeals to buyers. It's an investment in both comfort and property value.

• 24/7 Monitoring & Support:

  • Modern home standby systems include Mobile Link technology, allowing you to monitor your generator's status from your smartphone. You'll receive alerts about maintenance needs and system status—even when you're away from home.

• Runs on Natural Gas or Propane:

  • No need to store gasoline or refuel during an outage. Home standby generators connect directly to your existing natural gas or propane line for unlimited runtime.

• Peace of Mind:

  • Power outages are common in our area, especially during severe storms. With a home standby generator, you'll never worry about losing power again. Protect your family, your home, and your comfort.

OPTION 2: Manual Transfer Switch ▼

• Affordable Backup Power Solution:

  • Manual transfer switches cost a fraction of a whole-home standby generator system. If you already own a portable generator, adding a transfer switch is the most economical way to upgrade your backup power setup.

• Safe and Code- Compliant:

  • Running extension cords creates fire hazards, tripping risks, and potential carbon monoxide dangers. A professionally installed transfer switch eliminates these risks and meets Minnesota electrical codes. No more cords snaking through doorways or windows left open in winter.

• Power What Matters Most:

  • Choose which circuits to power during an outage—furnace, refrigerator, well pump, sump pump, lights, and outlets. You control your essential systems without overloading your portable generator.

• Prevent Backfeeding:

  • A transfer switch isolates your home from the utility grid, protecting line workers from dangerous backfeed and preventing damage to your generator and appliances when power is restored.

• Easy to Operate:

  • When the power goes out, simply start your portable generator, connect it to the outdoor inlet box, and flip the switches inside. When utility power returns, switch back and disconnect. Simple, safe, and effective.

• Works with Your Existing Generator

  • Already have a portable generator? Perfect. We'll size and install a transfer switch that matches your generator's capacity, maximizing your investment.

• Future-Proof Your Home

  • A manual transfer switch is a smart first step. If you decide to upgrade to a standby generator later, you've already invested in professional electrical infrastructure.

What Is A Manual Transfer Switch?

A manual transfer switch is a device installed next to your electrical panel that allows you to safely connect a portable generator to your home's electrical system. Instead of running dangerous extension cords through windows and doors, you can power selected circuits directly—just like the professionals do.

As a licensed master electrician, I'll assess your home's electrical needs, recommend the right transfer switch size, install the system to code, and show you exactly how to operate it safely. Installation includes:

• Transfer switch panel mounted near your main electrical panel

• Outdoor generator inlet box for safe, weather-resistant connection

• Circuit selection based on your priorities and generator capacity

• Complete permitting and inspection for code compliance

• Hands-on training so you're confident operating the system

Manual Transfer Switch vs. Standby Generator

Manual Transfer Switch:

• Lower upfront cost

• Requires you to start and connect generator manually

• Powers selected circuits only

• Works with portable generators you may already own

• First step done if you choose to switch to standby generator down the line

Home Standby Generator:

Higher upfront investment

• Automatic operation—no manual start needed

• Powers whole home or all essential circuits

• Permanent installation with continuous fuel supply

Both are excellent options. The right choice depends on your budget, backup power needs, and lifestyle.

Professional Installation by a Licensed Master Electrician:

Benson Automation and Electric provides expert installation, ensuring your generator is properly sized, safely connected, and fully compliant with Minnesota electrical codes. We handle everything from permitting to final inspection.

Get a FREE Quote Today

Don't wait until the next storm to protect your home. Whether you're looking for an economical manual transfer switch or a fully automatic home standby system, Benson Automation and Electric has the expertise to keep your power on.

Call Benson Automation and Electric today for your FREE quote. Don't wait until the next storm—prepare now.

📞 Licensed in Minnesota | Master Electrician | 24/7 Emergency Service

• info@bensonautomation.com

• 218-789-1235