Barndominiums are becoming increasingly popular in rural America for their durability, customizable interiors, and affordable construction. But with this off-the-grid charm comes the reality of unpredictable power outages—whether due to storms, grid failures, or local utility work. For homeowners who rely on consistent power to run well pumps, refrigeration, heating, and other essentials, a generator is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Whether you’re still in the planning phase or already living in your barndominium, preparing for a power outage is critical. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is how your generator connects to your home’s electrical system—specifically, whether to install a manual or automatic transfer switch (ATS). This blog will guide you through the pros, cons, and practical applications of both options.
Why Backup Power Is Crucial for Barndominiums
Most barndominiums are located in rural or semi-rural areas where grid infrastructure may be less robust. A prolonged outage could mean:
- No access to well water without a functioning pump
- No way to heat or cool your home
- Spoiled food in freezers and refrigerators
- Limited communication (especially if you rely on satellite internet or cell boosters)
- No power for work-from-home equipment or security systems
Installing a standby generator paired with a transfer switch is one of the smartest ways to protect your investment and lifestyle.
What Is a Transfer Switch?
A transfer switch is a device that changes the source of your home’s electrical power from the utility grid to your backup generator. It ensures a safe, legal, and code-compliant way to connect a generator without risking electrical backfeed—a dangerous situation that could harm utility workers or damage your appliances.
There are two main types of transfer switches:
- Manual Transfer Switches (MTS)
- Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)
Let’s break each of these down in detail.
Manual Transfer Switches: Affordable and Hands-On
How It Works:
A manual transfer switch requires you to be present during a power outage. You’ll need to:
- Start your generator.
- Flip the switch from the utility position to the generator position.
- Manually manage which circuits are powered.
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Manual switches and portable generators are usually more budget-friendly upfront.
- Simple Installation: Often easier and cheaper to install than automatic systems.
- Control: You can choose which circuits to energize depending on your generator’s capacity.
Cons:
- Not Ideal for Frequent Outages: Having to start and switch everything manually gets tedious if outages are common.
- Needs Human Presence: If you’re away when the power fails, your barndominium stays in the dark.
- Limited Automation: You can’t monitor or control it remotely unless paired with a smart system (usually not standard).
Best For:
- Weekend or seasonal barndominiums
- Homeowners on a budget
- Those comfortable with a bit of hands-on effort during an outage
Automatic Transfer Switches: Set It and Forget It
How It Works:
An automatic transfer switch detects a power loss instantly. Within seconds, it automatically starts the standby generator and switches your home’s power source. Once utility power is restored, the ATS reverses the process without requiring your intervention.
Pros:
- Hands-Free Operation: You don’t have to be home for your generator to kick in.
- Speed and Reliability: Critical systems like security cameras, medical equipment, or heating can resume immediately.
- Ideal for Whole-Home Coverage: Works seamlessly with large standby generators.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: More expensive both in equipment and installation.
- Complexity: Installation often requires permits, inspections, and a certified electrician.
- Fixed Setup: Not as flexible as manual switches if you want to control individual circuits during outages.
Best For:
- Full-time residences in remote areas
- Homeowners who travel or work away from home
- People relying on medical or high-priority systems
Choosing Between Portable and Standby Generators
Before choosing your transfer switch, consider the type of generator you’ll be using:
Portable Generators + Manual Transfer Switch:
- Affordable and mobile
- Great for powering a few circuits (like your fridge, lights, and well pump)
- Typically fueled by gasoline or propane
- Requires manual startup and shutdown
Standby Generators + Automatic Transfer Switch:
- Permanently installed
- Can power your entire barndominium
- Runs on propane or natural gas
- Starts automatically during outages
- Requires minimal maintenance
Safety and Code Compliance
Never connect a generator directly to your home’s electrical panel without a transfer switch. Doing so can cause:
- Electrical backfeed into the utility lines, endangering linemen
- Damage to your generator or appliances
- Violation of local electrical codes, which could void your homeowner’s insurance
Both manual and automatic transfer switches must be installed by a licensed electrician and inspected according to local codes.
Hybrid Approaches: Best of Both Worlds?
Some homeowners install both systems—for instance:
- Manual switch with a portable generator as a backup to a solar setup
- Automatic transfer for major systems, and a manual switch for outbuildings or detached workshops
This hybrid approach can offer redundancy and flexibility, especially for large barndominiums with multiple structures or outbuildings.
Installation Considerations
Here are a few things to think about when planning your generator hookup:
- Fuel source: Do you have reliable access to propane, diesel, or natural gas?
- Load needs: Will you be powering a few circuits or your entire home?
- Location: Generators must be installed with proper clearance and ventilation.
- Noise: Consider noise levels if you’re near neighbors or want a quiet homestead.
Also, ask your electrician about integrating with smart home systems. Many newer ATS models come with apps that let you monitor generator performance and fuel levels remotely—especially helpful if you travel often.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose an automatic or manual transfer switch comes down to lifestyle, budget, and how critical uninterrupted power is to your barndominium. If you’re living full-time in a remote location, an automatic system provides unmatched peace of mind. On the other hand, if you’re only visiting on weekends or using your barndominium as a second home, a manual setup may be more than sufficient.
The key is planning ahead. Build backup power into your design before you need it—because once the lights go out, it’s already too late.
Thinking about installing a generator hookup for your barndominium? Talk to a licensed electrician and explore all your options. Don’t forget to consider weather patterns, fuel availability, and long-term living plans.