What is a managed load?
A managed load is a selected appliance or circuit whose operation is coordinated by the backup system’s controls. For example, a design may delay a selected load rather than let it compete with other equipment for the available generator capacity.
The actual controls determine which loads can pause and resume. Decide which household equipment matters most, then have the generator, transfer arrangement and controls assessed together.
What determines priorities?
Priorities come from the actual loads, the household’s needs and the compatible controls available for the project. Not every appliance is supported in the same way.
The proposal should say which loads are involved instead of assuming every device will behave the same during an outage.
Does whole-home power mean everything runs together?
Whole-home connection does not mean every appliance can run simultaneously. The generator still has a defined capacity, and the configured controls may delay or disconnect selected loads.
Have the provider identify the supported loads, the managed equipment and any limits on simultaneous use. That makes broader-coverage language meaningful for the household.
What should a proposal explain?
A useful proposal should explain which loads are controlled, how they behave during outages and what happens if the homeowner’s needs change later.
That clarity helps the homeowner compare systems without confusing marketing language with actual operating behavior.