Kohler Intelligent Transfer Switch Named a 2008 Most Innovative Product

PRLog (Press Release) - Dec 09, 2008 -
The KOHLER Model RSB Intelligent Transfer Switch combines a home’s electrical load center with an automatic transfer switch required for a standby generator into one package, allowing contractors and builders to build every home generator-ready and eliminate the need for additional installation and wiring of a second distribution panel.

“We believe that the innovative Intelligent Transfer Switch is beneficial to builders and remodelers, and we’re pleased to find that others in the industry agree with us,” said Melanie Tydrich of Kohler Power Systems, senior channel manager – residential generators.  “This award reinforces Kohler’s ongoing commitment to being a leader in innovation and technology.”

To be honored as one of the Most Innovative Products of 2008 in Professional Remodeler, the products must emphasize technological advancements, significant product improvement and increase the competition of a product line. The winning products represent the best new products to enter the remodeling industry over the last year.
Because the KOHLER Intelligent Transfer Switch eliminates the need for a second distribution panel and additional wiring for a standby residential generator, contractors can realize savings of $800 to $1,200 from reduced installation time and costs.

Builders and contractors can set themselves apart from the competition by offering their customers a generator-ready home while also simplifying the installation process and passing on the savings.

The KOHLER Intelligent Transfer Switch also features an optional load-shedding module which offers significant flexibility in that the homeowner can set up the house to have all its electrical units backed up by the generator or just selected “essential” items such as air conditioning, furnace, hot water heater and refrigerator.  The load-shedding module utilizes electrically operated circuit breakers that disconnect selected loads prior to the transfer to generator power and retransfer the loads when utility power returns. This allows essential loads to be configured in the transfer switch while still maintaining all the advantages of consolidating the home’s primary load center and transfer switch into a single box.

“Distinct from the traditional transfer switch, this product is particularly beneficial for both new construction and major remodeling projects where new wiring is necessary,” said Tydrich.  “It’s a smart product for remodelers and builders to recommend, thinking of the future needs a homeowner may have if backup power becomes a necessity.”

The KOHLER Model RSB Intelligent Transfer Switch combines the Square D® QO load center by Schneider Electric’s North American Operating Division and its smart breaker system with KOHLER transfer switch logic. Key features include: service-entrance rated transfer switch; UL 67 listed and tested to UL 1008; 150, 200, and 225 amp models available; and a 5 year limited warranty.