How does a generator work when the power goes out?
The transfer switch (or ATS) monitors your electric utility provided 24/7 by ComEd. When the electricity is interrupted in your home, your generator senses this, and it automatically starts up. Within seconds, your generator will come up to proper speed and voltage. Then, the ATS will transfer your house over to the generator’s electrical system. All of this takes place in less than 10 seconds. Your power will be restored, and your life will be back to normal. After the electricity is restored, your generator will run for a few additional minutes—usually 1 to 20 minutes, depending upon the brand of the generator. This is called the cool-down period, after which it turns off automatically.
