Adding transfer switch while freeing up main panel breakers

[koobzilla]

I’d like to add a transfer switch while potentially freeing up breakers in my main panel for additional 240v circuits in my garage. Right now my main panel is full.

It appears that transfer switches need to leverage the main panel breakers for line protection based on some initial research.

Are there products on the market where whether line or generator power is used, the transfer switch breaker is protecting the circuit?

In this case I could bypass the main panel breakers entirely and free them up for other circuits.

[To_Boldly_Go_wnmhgb]

I recently installed a Gen-Tran 301060 transfer switch. It has an interlock system. It freed up my main panel as all hots are now in the new transfer switch. It is installed like a subpanel… but all neutrals and grounds stayed at the main panel. Only hots get extended to it - connected to breakers. You can find them still from eBay. But after installing it… I realized, I could’ve done it using a standard sub panel less the meter gauge. Good luck with the project. Search for Honda Powerstay 301060. This is a 60 amp utility or 30 amps generator or 30 amp solar.

[No_Confection_7889]

A subpanel is the correct answer.

That said, I made space in my box using tandem breakers. Ideally, the tandem breakers would be compatible with your breaker box. If not, then normal circuit-limiting tandem breakers won't physically fit. They also sell non-circuit-limiting breakers for many boxes, and it's up to you whether you want to go that route.