Auto Recloser & Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): Backup Power Solutions for Residential & Commercial Use
Auto Recloser & Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): Backup Power Solutions for Residential & Commercial Use
Short interruptions vs full outages — why modern buildings need both auto reclosers and ATS for fast recovery and continuous power.
Why modern buildings need automated backup power
Networks, servers, refrigeration, HVAC, access control, and smart devices all fail on power dips. Even seconds of interruption cause resets and data loss. Automated devices reduce downtime dramatically.
Key takeaway
- Auto Recloser restores the same source after short faults.
- ATS switches to a different source during full outages.
- Together they deliver fast recovery + continuous supply.
What is an Auto Recloser?
Detects temporary faults, trips safely, waits a preset delay, then attempts reconnection. Locks out after repeated failures to ensure safety.
- Grids with short, frequent dips
- Homes, small offices, light commercial floors
- Solar/battery hybrids, rural or semi-urban lines
- Long blackouts (needs ATS + backup source)
- Source switching between grid/generator
What is an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)?
Monitors two sources (e.g., Grid ↔ Generator, Grid ↔ Solar+Battery) and transfers load automatically when the primary fails, preventing manual switching errors and backfeed risks.
Auto Recloser vs ATS — What’s the difference?
| Feature | Auto Recloser | ATS |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Recover from short interruptions on same source | Switch to backup power source |
| Handles long blackout | No | Yes |
| Requires backup source | No | Yes (generator, battery, or second line) |
| Typical use | Residential + light commercial | Commercial/industrial + critical loads |
| Main advantage | Fast automatic recovery | Near-zero downtime |
How Auto Recloser + ATS work together
Scenario 1 — Residential with generator
Recloser handles dips; ATS switches to generator for prolonged outages — stable 24/7 power.
Scenario 2 — Commercial floors
Recloser reduces micro-outages; ATS maintains elevators, lighting, cold-chains without interruption.
Scenario 3 — Solar/battery hybrid
Recloser retries grid; ATS transfers load to inverter/battery cleanly during grid loss.
Common real-world use cases
Residential
- Villas with generators
- Smart homes with PV + ESS
- Rural homes on weak lines
Commercial
- Supermarkets & cold storage
- Restaurants & kitchens
- Clinics, server rooms, access control
Industrial
- Pumps and process lines
- HVAC and chilled water plants
- Construction site power
Key features to look for — Auto Recloser
- Adjustable retry count and delay (e.g., 3–10 s)
- Over/under-voltage thresholds
- Short-circuit detection and safe lockout
- Remote/manual trip and status
- DIN-rail compatibility
- Optional connectivity (Wi-Fi / Zigbee / 4G)
Key features to look for — ATS
- Source monitoring (voltage, frequency, phase)
- Transfer time and stable-start delay
- Mechanical/electrical interlock
- Load capacity for whole home/floor
- Manual override and test mode
- Compatibility with generators and inverters
FAQ
Do auto reclosers replace ATS?
No. Reclosers retry the same source; ATS switches sources.
Do I need both?
If outages are both short and long, and you have a backup source — yes.
Where to install ATS?
At the main board feeding protected circuits; coordinate with generator/inverter.
Does ATS work with solar + battery?
Yes, when integrated with hybrid inverters/ESS as the secondary source.
Recommended products
Auto Recloser
Automatic retries after short faults; programmable delays and thresholds; remote monitoring options.
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
Monitors two sources and transfers load automatically; ideal for grid↔generator or grid↔ESS.
Smart RCBO (1P+N)
Leakage + overload protection with remote control; recommended downstream of ATS/recloser.
Conclusion
Auto reclosers minimize short-term interruptions, while ATS ensures continuous power through source switching. Together, they create a resilient, automated backup power solution for homes and businesses — future-ready for solar, batteries, and sensitive digital loads.