
Generator Transfer Switch A transfer switch is a safe way to connect your home to a portable inverter generator during a power outage.
It allows for the entire home to be powered by the connected generator. A
transfer switch should be installed only by a licensed
electrician to ensure the safety of family members, property
and utility workers. Injury or accident resulting from an
improperly installed transfer switch could possibly void your
homeoner's insurance.
A transfer switch can be either automatic, manual or a
combination of both. For the home, a manual transfer switch is
a safe and convenient option. It can be configured to isolate
the ciruits that require power while preventing the risk of
harmful utility backfeed.
Sizing requirements depend on a few key factors. For
starters, determine what size power cord will be used. If you
plan to use a 30 amp cord then select a 30 amp transfer switch.
A good way to pick your chord is to match it to the largest
outlet on your generator. If there's a 50 amp outlet, then
choose a 50 amp chord. Make sure the plugs on the chord to be
used match up with the outlet on the generator and transfer
switch. There is a possibility that the ends may require
different plugs.
Next, decide which circuits you plan to power. If you plan
to utilize a 3000 to 5000 watt inverter generator then maybe
consider a 6 circuit transfer switch. Look for a transfer switch that includes a built-in wattage
meter so you can monitor the load and to make sure that the
system is not overloaded.
The location of your electrical panel is usually where you
would install the transfer switch. If your electrical panel is
located outside the home then most likely you would place your
inverter generator near the transfer switch and plug straight
in. If your electrical panel is located within the garage,
inside the home or a basement then maybe consider running a
hard wired power inlet box to the transfer switch from a
conveniant location on the outside of the home.
Reliance Controls Transfer Switch
Model# 31406CRK - 6 Circuit
 If your power needs are minimal or you require only lights
and critical appliances to be run during an outage, then the
Reliance 6 Circuit transfer switch or similar may by an ideal
choice. It is rated for 30 amps and can support generators up
to 7,500 watts. Although it can be self installed, a license
electrician is recommended. If you do take the self install
route, the included documentation and installation walkthrough
video are very helpful and straightforward. This transfer
switch includes built in wattmeters, a 30 amp 10 ft power cord
with L14-30 and L14-20 ends, an outdoor power cord inlet box
rated at 30 amps and a 5 year warranty.
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GenTran Transfer Switch
Model & Kit# 3028K 30 Amp 8-Circuit
To accommodate larger power requirements, an 8 circuit
transfer swith like the GenTran 3028K model enables more
devices in your home or business to recieve power with the
added benefit of being expandable up to 10 ciruits if the need
arises. It supports generators rated up to 7,500 watts. As with
any transfer switch, a licensed qualified elecrician is
recommended for the installation. The kit version of the
GenTran 3028 transfer switch includes the 8 circuit prewired
transfer switch, dual watt meters for load monitoring, power
cord inlet box with 25 ft power cord and a 2 year limited
warranty.
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