For a sudden power outage, you would probably need a backup source like a generator but before buying a generator you need to reckon some of the important points like buying a transfer switch. This transfer switch ensures your safety and is essential for your generator. Probably compulsory if, your generator has more power like 5000 watts of power. A portable generator needs a transfer switch for sure, and if you want to use it for home appliances then for security and safety you must install the transfer switch.
Moreover, you don’t want to run after some extensions but you want something simpler to connect and for that Transfer, the switch is installed. For buying the best transfer switch for the portable generator you must need to consider your requirement for the generator and according to that, you need to make a choice.
In this article, you will get a lot of information regarding the transfer switch and which one is best for you. Some of the points have been highlighted in the buying guide to make it simpler for you. Overall, this will guide you to get yourself the best transfer switch.
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Top 5 Transfer Switches For Portable Generator
Connecticut electric is a portable switch for the generator that is designed with a transfer kit that is used in the emergency generator which can give up to 30 amp of output. Anyone can understand the instructions as they are easy to follow up, the unit is extra-ordinarily simple to install and makes it more affordable than an expensive running portable generator.
The voltage consumption of the generator is 240 volts, this is the best transfer switch for the portable generator, the kit is made with 2 pole circuits hence making it versatile and flexible as you can remove the 2 single-pole circuits by removing the tie bar. Only in the case if the 2 pole circuits are not needed.
Talking about its design such technology has been used that it can comprise any generator which is to be used indoor or outdoor, the power transfer switch can be used in the accordance with the requisites. Additionally, it also has NEMA 3R that is installed to provide complete protection from the rain.
The switch is also very compatible with all load centers like Challenger, Siemens, square D. The power restoration is done swiftly as the double throw rocker switches and eliminates the possibility of power back. It ensures all the consumers the features and its standards to be highly complacent.
| BRAND | Connecticut Electric |
| SWITCH STYLE | Rocker Switch |
| TERMINAL | SPST |
| ITEM DIMENSIONS LXWXH | 11.5 x 20.5 x 14.5 inches |
| CIRCUIT TYPE | 1- way |
| ACTUATOR TYPE | Push Button |
Pros.
Cons.
Customer’s Reviews- :
- Easy to install the setup.
- Affordable price and modest price switches.
- Waterproof and can run longer.
This transfer kit is the best as this is ideal for that circuitry that needs a multi-wiring system. The installation is quite fast for residential as well as commercial appliances. Like a lot of installation requires an electrician and is not easy to handle but the process of the installation here is flexible and does not require any professional.
The switches are specially designed in taking consideration for heavy generators that require more power, now a day’s generator power is essential and for heavy generator, an ideal switch that can support heavy wattages are required. Here in this switch, it can take up to 7500 running wattage. Which is itself a very high number for any switch.
Additionally, the transfer switch has a flexible conduit whip that attaches itself to the loader. This makes the switch reliable for every generator. The maximum number of single-pole circuits is 10 and the maximum number of double-pole circuits is 5.
The design has been done featuring its rugged space, the cabinets are made up of steel and are powder coated. It also contains a total of six combinations of knockout and is fully proofed from electricity. All the safety measures have been considered beforehand.
| BRAND | Reliance Controls |
| SWITCH STYLE | Toggle Switch |
| TERMINAL | SPST |
| ITEM DIMENSIONS LXWXH | 7 x 4.5 x 13.75 inches |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| ACTUATOR TYPE | Push Button |
| Number of Positions | 3 |
| Specification Met | Certified frustration-free |
Pros.
Cons.
Customer’s Reviews- :
- The build is solid and strong.
- Very easy to install.
- The transfer switch is strong and works great with both smaller and larger devices.
The reliance controls TCA0606D transfer switch is available at a very low price. The circuit offers a combination of 60A for generators and 60A for utility, the transfer switch has a smooth finish and is made up of waterproof material.
The switch contains interlocked breakers that help the generator to be isolated from the utility at all times. The special features make this switch special and convenient.
The switch provides up to 15000 to the generator and works exceptionally well with more power generators. The switch can be used as a panel for single and sub-panel as the main and the load power is great.
The design of the switch features a heavy-duty copper bar structured strongly and giving a firm design to the switch. The installation of the transfer switch is very easy and a great choice for value money.
| BRAND | Reliance Controls |
| Item Dimensions | 14 x 12.75 x 5 inches |
| Item weight | 10.58 pounds |
| ASIN | B008RXTPXK |
| Domestic Shipping | Item can be shipped within the U.S |
| Item model number | TCA0606D |
Pros.
Cons.
Customer’s Reviews- :
- The design is solid and rigid.
- Neutral wiring and easy to install.
- The transfer switch is strong and works great with both smaller and larger devices.
The squared transfer switch is an amazing choice for you as it is used to connect to a power source of 8 circuits as standby. The power it can give is more and if you are looking for a transfer switch that can load powerful generators then this can work with you.
The design of the switch is rigid and it can change from power utility to any source that is standby, it also includes a flip of mainly 2QO circuit breakers connected in mains. It has mainly 30 Amp and 4-watt L14-30P with a twist-lock technology; These receptacles in the end wall are connected at the bottom for the direct connection to the generator.
It also includes a single phase 120/240 VAC that makes it a reliable device for use. As it is portable it can be used outdoor. The design is done with a mechanical interlock that is used to assure only one circuit breaker which in the main is in the position for the time being.
The transfer switch has an item weight of 11.35 pounds that makes it easy to handle. Overall it is the best transfer switch for the value of money.
| BRAND | Square D by Schneider Electric |
| Item Dimensions | 4.27 x 8.88 x 12.65 inches |
| Item weight | 11.35 pounds |
| Item model number | QO1DM10030TRBR |
Pros.
Cons.
Customer’s Reviews- :
- Circuits can take a good load.
- Affordable price and modest price switches.
- Can run longer.
- Comes with a manual easy to handle and install
Furrion 50 amp is an automatic safe transfer switch, the transfer switch is the best transfer switch for a portable generator. The switch is portable and has a build-in interlock system for safety, the system is used to automatically switch between separate 125/250-volt AC power, it has two separate power dc/volt.
The power source can be a generator or an inverter. For overvoltage avoidance, the transfer switch is provided with an additional feature of a mechanical interlock system between the contractors. These contractors ensure safety as they cannot get closer in parallel hence preventing overvoltage. Safety is ensured with fireproof plastics on the wires. The casting material is UL 94 shock and fireproof material.
The time delay of the transfer switch is sensed by the 2 input terminals, as it will sense and start the timer and switch it automatically over to other generator power supply after some time delay like 20 minutes and 30 seconds that also ensures the efficiency of the generator. It is one of the best 50 amp transfer switch for generators.
The design is built to increase the bass with low vibrations and the exterior is coated with nickel plated for making it corrosion-free. The material is a brass one that is used to proliferate its conductivity. This technology also reduces the heat generated by the generator and cools the overall system.
| BRAND | Furrion |
| Material | Plastic |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 11.81 x 10.63 x 7.09 inches |
| Specification Met | Certified frustration-free |
| Size | 50 Amp |
Pros.
Cons.
Customer’s Reviews- :
- The switch is portable.
- Best transfer switch for money value.
- Easy to install.
- Gives good fire protection.
Buying Guide To Choose The Best Transfer Switch For Portable Generator:
When you wish to add a portable generator as a backup source for your house, you want to do it with minimal chaos. And you may need to see and take care of some of the important points. The main emphasis one must give is on transfer switches as during power outages you won’t run for cords but want a more subtle solution which is surely the transfer switch.
The best transfer switch makes it simple for you to start your backup power by connecting a generator to the circuits directly. There is no required extension cords or some hassle around you. A transfer also ensures the safety of the house as you don’t have to open the door and go outside for switching it on or off, the transfer switches handle it properly by strongly connecting it to the whole service panel.
Here are some of the points that must not be overlooked at times when you are looking for a good transfer switch.
Sizing transfer switches
The ideal way to size a transfer switch is to correctly define what you need and then match it with the ideal generator of the maximum outlet so that you don’t have to worry about the wattage power.
A better way to find out this can be knowing about your generator amps like if your generator needs 35 amps then buy a transfer switch of 35 amps for a full power supply and load.
This eventually helps you to get better at buying the exact switch that you ideally need, not setting for less at least.
Wattage meters
The transfer switches built-in wattage meters are best as they keep track of what’s the power source, overloading, and if they are damaging your generator. When you keep all these things in mind you would be prepared to choose which one is best for you.
The wattage power also is used to check the required source and to check the running watts it can support. So, you get to pre-calculate the requisites.
Comprehensive kits
For installation purposes, an easy kit is used which makes the installation process easy, quick, and simple. A comprehensive kit is like an all-in-one kit that has the correct set of pairs which makes the technical work less hectic.
Most switches are double-checked prevented to have double paired pieces within. Which ensures customer safety and satisfaction.
Brand name
A brand name always gives you more assurance about the item. A transfer kit with a brand name ensures your kit to be perfect and strong as compared to the non-branded ones. And if you are a brand person you might know the brand switches come with UL/CUL Certification.
If you have a love for some specific brand you should never miss a chance to buy something else. Although all branded switches are expensive but worth it to buy due to their durable nature.
Warranty
As a specific brand have certifications, specification and more; you should never forget to buy a piece of transfer switch with a warranty on it, as a warranty assures the customer safety towards the device and makes the company or brand more responsible. The maximum warranty for any electronic device is of 6 or 1 year, also it relaxes you in terms of investing your valuable money in the right direction.
Choose a type
Transfer switches do have types, for example, they can be automatic or manual and like open transition or closed transition. You must focus on your type, for home appliances, you must choose an automatic one, a manual one would be indifferent to you if not used properly. A manual switch can be manually changed from grid to generator.
But if you economically want something better then a manual switch can help you as they are less expensive than the automatic one. Also, they are easier to control and set up.
Indoor and outdoor compatibility
An indoor and outdoor compatibility check can help you identify your requisites, if you are for a portable generator that also works outside then your first preference must be an outdoor transfer switch that provides you comfortability at times when you are partying outside in the garden and you need an extra source of energy.
If you want to use the generator indoors for home appliances like in the kitchen you must go with a transfer switch that works indoors properly.
Installation
Installation of most of the transfer switches is easy and can be done by yourself but for a proper installation and no glitches, you must install it by calling an electrician. An electrician can fix the transfer generator better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
Few Last Words
When we want to buy any electrical appliances like a generator that takes more power and wattage we need to be concern about the safety of the home and people living there. Buying a transfer switch not just for safety concerns but also is essential for portable generators, you don’t want to run after the extensions and wires after a power outage.
You can buy any generator portable or a steady generator, especially for your home. But it should excel in its features like its performance, running watts, and safety measures and this can only be made sure by installing transfer switches.
Hence transfer switch is the best thing you can install with your portable power generator. This will reduce your tension.
