Guess what I'm doing next week? The same exact thing as your video this morning. It couldn't have come at a better time! 2024 is going great so far!😊😊😊
Fantastic! It really is a pretty easy install. Make sure you have plenty of time set aside and go slow and of course, be safe!!! Feels so good to have the peace of mind 😁👍
Hey Buddy...you did an "Awesome Job" you had done what we call in the military..."Adapted and Over Come"!! At the end of the day. I understood every instruction that you had given!!👍
Great video! I have installed 1/2 dozen of these types of switches over the years but not in quite a while. Great refresher. I actually installed the same unit as you did in the video. I also purchased the wire strippers because of your video. Should have secured this tool years ago. The inlet took the bulk of the time as I had to navigate through quite a maze of plumbing, fixtures, joists and so. I tested the setup by just connecting one stand alone circuit (basement outlet) before moving on. That is the easy part. Anyway, thanks for the vid. Well done!
@tombateman161 Thank you so much! Glad you liked it. Those wire strippers are a game changer. I've used an old Radio Shack pair for about 35 years, lol 🤠👍
I followed your excellent video here and the one installing the outside inlet and all came out great. What I did different was to cut the male end off the 10 ft cable that came with kit and connected the cut wires to back of outside inlet and ran it through pvc conduit into basement leaving female end near transfer switch. I purchased a separate cable inlet and installed into transfer switch. I will plug in my cable to connect a generator or use a separate cable into transfer switch in future when I get a battery system. Generator works great and batteries should work in the future. Thanks for you great videos.
The transfer switch changes your house wiring so that a generator OR utility power is selected for given circuits in your house.. ONE or the OTHER but NOT both.. this protects the utility workers who are working on power lines in your neighborhood after a power failure from being electrocuted from power being unexpectedly "back fed" into the grid by a home owned generator. Utility workers have been killed in the past because someone wired a generator to feed directly into the house wiring and back into the grid through one of a variety of regular wall outlets instead of using a transfer switch. People do not realize that doing this connects your generator to the neighborhood power grid. This is not only dangerous but Illegal. The other issue with back feeding is when the power comes back on and your generator is still running, the utility's generator and yours are not phase matched (not compatible) and will probably cause a fire right after "the big flash". REALLY GOOD video, Sam
I'm doing this in a few days with the R510A transfer box. I got that one because I needed an outside rated box and it has the 50amp receptacle to match my generator. I like how inexpensive spare breakers are for these Reliant transfer switches, and they give you a list of all the compatible breaker models from the major brands. Watching you will make things go a lot faster for me, thanks!
At about the 7:45 location of the video, a problem is described with the holes and screws when installing the provided inlet to the transfer box. The holes and screws are not the same size and required a nut to complete the installation. Close examination of the documentation shows that the provided inlet is not recommended for interior use. Instead, another inlet is recommended. I ordered the recommended inlet and the screws provided are a perfect match to the transfer box holes. So the holes were drilled to match the recommended interior inlet, not the provided exterior inlet. All that aside, the documentation in another place says it is ok to install the provided exterior inlet into the transfer switch. Why the exterior is not recommended for interior use is not understood.
@georgedaniels8207 Thank you so much for that detailed explanation. I ended up moving the inlet outside and used the box provided. The screws fit perfectly for the exterior box. 🤠👍
I really like the focused emphasis and tenor (speed) at which you articulate the work. I sometimes can’t quite follow others as they “slow down “ their presentation screwing in every wire, cutting every cable…. Your emphasis is near perfect- you have a new subscriber here
I NEVER watch videos that are more than 5 minutes. I thoroughly enjoyed this, and learned a lot. For instance I did not know wire strippers like that existed. Def getting a pair.
Good video and very well explained and well done. The only difference in Canada is that according to the CEC the wires in the panel that are going to be powered by the backup generator have to be pulled out of the panel and spliced in a separate junction box and not in the main panel. Since I'll be using my 8500Watt generator, I purchased the same brand inlet & panel but 50Amp and 50Amp power inlet ($950.00 icluding tax) myself and the electrician is charging me $1,600.00 for the installation only. So $2,550 for the complete installation. Yep, those are the prices in Canada.
@@galactichazzard8932 Wow! That's pricey. I spent roughly $500 on the Reliance Controls Transfer Switch kit and less than $100 on peripherals. Still, the peace of mind is priceless 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff It sure is, but this is Canada where we get royally screwed every single day of the year. Electrician is coming on the 10th so I'll have some peace of ming for the winter. I was tired of running cables through the windows during power outages and having stat up because of possible break-ins. I agree, peace of mind is everything lol.. Cheers
Happy New Year Sam! Nice install. The transfer switch will make things a lot easier when the power goes out. I like that you were thinking ahead mounting the input receptacle into the transfer switch panenl. Have a great weekend!
Very good video and thank you for sharing. So therefore, if I understand this correctly, there is no need for a safety interlock on your main panel. And since the first point of disconnect is the generator then the generator needs to be bonded. Please correct me if I am mistaken. Reason, I’m trying to get this clear in my head is because I’m getting ready to do this very thing. Thank you so much and I liked and subbed. Cheers from Dave.!😎✌️
Thank you Dave! Welcome to the channel. You are correct in all of your questions. It is a very safe system and cannot back feed the grid. I believe the generator can be bonded at the inlet box 🤠👍
Great video, watched completely. It is nice to future proof things. It sounded like the new panel had stranded wire. I wonder if the ends might be prepped with some solder on the ends before inserting in the neutral /ground and breaker screws prevent frays when clamping, or if it makes any difference? I would love to do one that has a cut over automatic option. Thanks for posting.
After I installed our six and ten circuit Manual Transfer Switch, I went back and removed all the wire nuts, replacing them with Wago wire connectors. They work so much better and are safer.
Thanks for showing. I am going to hook up 6 circuit one hopefully this weekend. However. That will be loads i run to also save on energy cost. So they will not just backup power but also help save cost on daily solar generator.
Great question. No you don't. You can actually test your system without having a power outage. There is a direct disconnect from grid power when you switch each circuit from grid to generator.
@@samsdoinstuff thank you so much, going to be doing this soon. Is there a better alternative to wire nuts? not a fan of those things from automotive days
@@PyrateGraphics You can use WAGO connectors. Here's a link: WAGO 221 Lever Nuts 78pc Compact Splicing Wire Connector Assortment with Case. Includes (34x) 221-412, (26x) 221-413, (18x) 221-415 a.co/d/7Og6oWU
I went through the exact same steps and had the same issues. Once it was complete I hooked it up to the eco flow DPUltra and it works great. Adding solar to the eco flow unit will help out with long term outages. Knowing you are on backup you need to be careful with your usage. One other item is to have a nearby receptacle for battery charging of your generator. Great video!
Thank you! That's the exact setup I hope to have. I like the Delta Pro Ultra, and I would like to have it set up as my main backup. Then, if the power is out too long and the solar panels aren'tenough, use the gas generator to charge it. All I need is about $10k 🤠👍
Not for nothing and with all due respect, you warned about NOT touching the HOT LEGS coming in at the top and not only did you look VERY close to it with your hand but you were wearing your wedding ring. I don't know, maybe I'm overly cautious but that looked a little scary. Thanks for the video, it was very informative.
@@michaeltammaro482 Oh my gosh! I never even thought about my wedding ring!!! (Obviously) I really should remove that more often or get one of those rubber ones. Thank you very much for the heads up! 🤠👍
Thanks for the great video. 1. Was this your main break or a sub? If a sub why do you not just turn off power to the sub for safety. 2. Our electrician says they have to have the power company turn power off to install this or the interlock option but you were able to do it without doing that, is that them just being extra safe or is it a different setup? 3. In Florida most quotes installed for interlock are about $2000, seems astronomical to me, any ideas of a normal price range for the labor portion?
Thank you! Great questions. 1. This is my main panel and I definitely turned off the main breaker. BUT, the poles on the main breaker are always hot so be sure to stay away from them. 2. Codes are different everywhere. I am able to do my install without turning off the power from the utility pole. 3. Once again, costs are different everywhere you go. $2,000 is probably typical for a professional electrician to install something like this. The unit cost me $500 from Home Depot. Feels good to know i saved that kind of money DIYing it 🤠👍
I follow everything you're saying up to the last part of this video. At 30:14 - You talk about "coming back down" (into the basement I'm presuming) and then power outage and mention the main breaker being turn off? I'm confused at this point. I presume you mean the power outage and not the actual main being tripped or flipped off? Does the main breaker have to be tripped off for this device to be safe for lineman?
@Joebanker80 Great question. Sorry about the confusion. No, the main breaker does not have to be off. This system will not back-feed the grid because it disconnects from the main panel when you switch it over to generator. You don't even need to turn off the main breaker to test it. Simply hook up your generator as if there was a power outage and switch the circuits over from line to generator to make sure everything works as it should. 🤠👍
Thank you for demonstrating the voltage flow once the transfer switch is turned on. Couldn't figure how that would work with out energizing the whole bus bar. So just to ask. do you have to turn the main circuit breaker switch off before you turn the transfer switch on?
@dpsflyboy Great question. The answer is no, you do not need to turn your main breaker off on your panel. The power source is rerouted so the breakers in the main panel are essentially feeding nothing when you switch to "gen" on the transfer switch. I really like that it is a very safe system 🤠👍
Perfect - But 🙂 When Using the wire-nut on the black wires at the breaker panel pre- twist the black wires to give them an error free solid connection then insert the wire nut for a trouble free connection and after tightening the wire nut give it a few twists of the wires so the loose wires are twisted as well to help prevent electrical vibration from loosening the wires over time. My opinion 🙂
Excellent video. Question: so we don't actually free any breakers in the existing panel. The ones we are setting up for access in the MTS are still technically in use in the main panel.
@cgf72 Great question. Yes, the flow of electricity is from the grid, through the main panel breaker, through the MTS, into each circuit. The MTS switches power supplied from the grid to being supplied from the generator. This prevents the generator from ever backfeeding the grid. You can also test your backup system without ever shutting off the main power in the panel. Hope this helps 🤠👍
So does the neutral from the generator just carry the imbalance of the branch circuits?also what does the single white wire from the transfer do?is it just for the power meters?
Those questions may go a bit beyond my basic knowledge. I know white is neutral, and the neutral and ground are bonded in the main panel. The 30 amp power supplied from the generator simply turns the house circuits into a bunch of extension cords. I'm sure there's more to it, but it's safe and it works so I'm happy 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff The white also should be the return path to the generator, I think. So it should have a connection to where you attached the white of the generator inlet.
Great video, thanks. Just to be clear. With this setup, can I run my 30 amp wire from the generator straight into the 30 amp outlet on the transfer switch? No outside Inlet box is needed. Thanks
Great video. Will be very helpful soon. One question! Once installed, did you say you turned off the main breaker while using power from the generator? I didn’t think that was necessary .
@TonySmigelski Thank you! So glad you liked it. You do not have to turn off the man breaker to use the transfer switch. It has a clean disconnect from the grid so there's no chance of back feeding the grid 🤠👍
That little factory that the black & red wires are labeled A B C etc. is nowhere in the install PDF from Reliance - I've been staring at one that someone else installed for a week! I have to replace some of the circuits in the main panel due to a remodel at my friend's house & it was driving me nuts!
Tried to say "factoid" - 'auto correct is always 'auto wrong' - anyway, your video cleared up everything - got the whole remodel rewired to the main panel, with, with 10 loads linked over to the Reliance & on solar/battery backup. So - good one!
Great work, but I'm i wrong? I thought you weren't allowed to have any wire nut connections in the breaker box. Does anyone know if I've been wrong all these years?
@@tomdorman2486 Great question. I'm sure different codes and regulations exist for various states and municipalities. I wonder if Wago connectors meet more stringent codes? I would suggest calling a licensed electrician. You can still do the work yourself, but they may have the answers you need 🤠👍
Can you configure these with any breaker combination you want on the transfer switch side? I want one with a 50a input and 6 20a single pole breakers and 4 15a single pole breakers.
@jjay718 Great question. You can change out the breakers in the transfer switch but be careful not to exceed the amperage limitations of the wires going to and from the main panel. 🤠👍
Great question. Yes, the unit is rated up to 30 amps. Make sure you use one of the 240 sets of breakers. You'll notice the wires are a thicker awg for those channels 🤠👍
Thank you for this excellent informative video which will provide significant savings. By the way, what gauge wire did you use to connect inlet box to transfer switch?
Hello, Was your installation done in Canada? If not, do you know if the Canadian code allows the connections you used for the installation of the generator electrical box?
@renepatry7049 Great question. My installation was not done in Canada and I am not familiar with Canadian codes. I certainly recommend checking your local laws, rules and codes before attempting to install 🤠👍
Great question. You certainly can, but with this manual transfer switch, there is a hard disconnect from the grid power so you don't necessarily have to. Your generator will power the circuits you've chosen and when the power comes back on, you don't have to worry about back-feeding the grid because those circuits are disconnected through the transfer switch. Hope this helps! 🤠👍
@@Billster1955 Thank you! Great question. Yes, there are a set of wires that are a higher guage (thicker wire) specifically for the 220 applications. 🤠👍
Great question! I definitely think it's possible and I would use a selector switch inside. Run each inlet I to the switch and one output from the switch to the transfer switch. Should work perfectly 🤠👍
@dennisnardantonio1380 You are so welcome! I'm using a Ryobi 6500 but I would not recommend it. It was the lowest cost / power and the carburetor gets gummed up pretty easily. 🤠👍
Good video so that white wire that you’re hooking to the ground bar that is the white wire that is connected to the outlet correct I just got mine today and when I opened the bottom panel, the white wire wasn’t connected to anything it was just sitting there so that’s for the plug correct ?
The white wire is the neutral. It should be connected to something. There shouldn't be any loose wires. If the white wire is missing from the inlet, that's probably it. Hope this helps 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff so where is the white wire connected at where the circuit breakers are? I guess that’s the easiest way to ask that’s why I was thinking that white wire that wasn’t connected to anything to the outlet box.
@cessnapilot1990 I think at this point I would have to see it. There's a white neutral wire that goes into the main panel and gets connected to the neutral bar. That should be pre-wired into the transfer switch. Then there's a white neutral that gets wire nutted to the wire you provide to connect the inlet. Not sure if there's another one I'm missing.
Curious as those are 15 amp fuses how did you connect them to other fuses on the main panel that require 20 amps? Or did you only pick 15 amp? I ask because a lot of things I would want to power are on 20
Couldn’t you just add a 30 amp double fuse to the panel that would backfeed the panel and forgo the entire panel? The it would power everything on the panel up to the wattage of your generator. I feel like that would save a ton on installation and allow more flexibility. Obviously got to make sure that the main is off to protect lineman, but in my mind that would work too. I’m also not an electrician but thinking about options for my own home.
@@brendenpetersen5481 that’s a question I had for a long time and I just hooked up my 30 amp generator inlet box. I then connected my inlet box to my main panel on a 30 amp breaker. Now keep in mind that when you do it this way you have to install a safety interlock kit, which is mounted underneath the main shut off. It allows only one breaker to be on at a time. So therefore, the 30 amp breaker that you used to connect your generator inlet to must be right under the main shut off. You have to get the one for your particular electrical panel. It’s actually easier than putting in a transfer switch. Not sure if this helped you out, but I hope it did. Oh, and I almost forgot to mention… That if your generator comes bonded, then you need to unbond it for this type of hook up. Another words, the ground and the neutral do not need to be connected together on your generator because your main panel is already providing that, and you can only have one panel bonded.
50 videos on the transfer switch and not one video speaks to the meter shown at the to of the switch box; What does it measure in or out current? what to look for? how to read it? I'm not sure how to ignore it like it isn't there.
Great question and I'm sorry I didn't address that in the video. The meters measure the amount of power coming from the generator in relation to the amount used by each side of the transfer switch. It is ideal to keep each 120 volt side under equal load. The meters allow the user to monitor that load. Hope this helps 🤠👍
Good video! My project is to connect an EcoFlow Delta Pro battery power station for power outage backup to my breaker panel using a transfer switch. Eventually I would want to create a Hybrid power system in which I would get 50-75% of my power from solar. I have identified 10 critical circuits that I can connect to the transfer switch, but in the future I may want to add more circuits. Being that the largest transfer switch on the market only has 10 circuits, is there a way to combine them?
I also would like a Delta Pro some day. Good choice. There's no doubt in my mind you could use 2 transfer switch systems for 20 total circuits. Just do a double install side by side. You would need 2 generators as well 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff EcoFlow has a setup that has a connect that uses a double voltage hub that requires to Delta Pros and provides 240V, However I do not nee this because I am only dealing with 110V service Only connecting 110V services to the Delta Pro and leaving the 220 V services connected to the grid. Even had my 220V Submersible well pump removed and replaced by a Grundfos 10SQ05-160 115v 3" Submersible Water Well Pump. If I installed a 2nd transfer switch could i use something like a Finderomend Dryer Splitter Adapter to connect both transfer switch to the Delta Pro. Presently have one extra battery and will be adding a secound when I get this setup.
Hey you gave me an idea but in order for my idea to work I need to ask you. That outlet you used from the box, are they all standard size? I ask because the Reliance TS I’m thinking of buying A501A comes with the optional power outlet and the 50’amp power cord I’m buying comes with an outlet box with an outlet. If I can do what you did with the outlet that comes with my cord I can buy the Reliance TS without power outlet option and save some dough.
Thank you for your question. First, I always feel best using what comes with a kit rather than piecing different brands together. Also, my TS is a 30 amp version, just to be clear. That's what works with my generator. If both are the same brand, however I would think the outlets would fit in either one because there is an option of using a 50 amp inlet instead of a 30 amp inlet so they should be interchangeable. No guarantees, but I hope this helps 🤠👍
I’m sorry to keep bothering and I promise I’m not a troll (whatever that is). Question: the generator I have is a 50 amp and the manual switch I bought was rated 50 amp. I’ve seen reviews regarding this particular manual switch about the gauge of wire being 10g but need to be at least 8g for bigger loads like the well pump and A/C. Have you had any issues with the smaller g wire? My AC in the panel have two 30 amp fuses and if there is a chance this switch won’t work then I need to seek out an alternative. Thanks again!
@SFCSMOKER No problem. I'm happy to help if I can. Short answer is I used 8 awg wire. The instructions do say you can use 10 awg, but I felt the same way you do so I used 8. It seems obvious but make sure you get the 50 amp version. I'm pretty sure it's just a different inlet but you want it to match your generator.
@@samsdoinstuff roger that. I did purchase the 50. I guess if you match the breakers and wire gauge in the main, it'll work. I may not be able to run all of the wires through the conduit, but I have a plan for that. Thank you sir for your experience and the video. You have been the most informative thus far and I have watched a bunch of videos.
If I use this box with the power being fed from a 120v source, how do I handle having 2 line wires to connect? Do I connect my one source line to both switch lines in? Would that cause an error, especially if the lines serviced are running into the house panel having 2 phases? I ran with the scenario I just described and do get GF error and am not able to power anything when I switch from Line to Gen. If that is the problem how do I separate the 2 phases in the switch box? I have reliance Model 30408. Thanks in advance.
So the power has gone off. I have switched my main breaker from the grid to the “Off” position. I have hooked up my generator and switched all the switches to “GEN”. Started my generator and determined that all the circuits wired thru the manual switch are working. CAN I NOW TURN MY MAIN BREAKER BACK ON? (Not shouting). Great video by the way.
@SFCSMOKER Yes. As a matter of fact, because the transfer switch has a direct cut off between "gen" and "line", you don't necessarily have to turn off your main breaker in the main panel. There's no risk of back-feeding the grid from your generator so you can simply switch back to line when the power comes back on. Hope this helps 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff you sir have unknowingly saved me a couple thousand dollars. Initially my plan was an outside transfer switch with the generator directly into the panel, for several reasons it wasn’t going to be DIY. I watched several videos but none was as thorough as yours. Made me confident I could go with this method. Thanks and God Bless
Confused Gere about circuit breakers In .y main panel some are 15 so.e are twenty Amp and I have sub panel also the extension cord is three prong you wired 4 wires
Great questions. You are fine wiring 15 or 20 amp circuits. Do not exceed 20 amps. The 240 amp breakers can accept up to 30 amps. There are 4 wires in the inlet because the incoming power is divided into 2, 120 amp feeds to each side of the main panel. Try to distribute the incoming power from the generator equally between both sides of the panel. You can power a sub-panel with one of the 240 circuits as long as the combined load from the sub-panel doesn't exceed 30 amps. Hope this helps 🤠👍
never understood why folks choose this over a manual interlock.... much cheaper, easier to install, flexible and just as easy to use. Just manually choose which circuits you can want to use that won't overload the generator. I don't want to have to limit myself to 10 circuits... I can choose my own safely...
Manual interlocks are easier to install, but you run risk of making your ground run live or hot if you have a bonded neutral generator. Also would be a code violation from my understanding if you had a bonded neutral generator and used an interlock.
@@TheManiac12992 - that’s a simple solution. Unbond the generator and make it a floating neutral. Westinghouse has very clear instructions on how to do this in their user manuals. It’s removing one jumper. Takes 15 min tops. I have a bonded plug hanging on a cord for the case when I want to use the generator stand-alone which is a very rare event. Just plug it into one of the 120v receptacle’s
Although Interlock Kits are easier to install, they are an "All" or "Nothing" solution. With an Interlock Kit, the main panel power breaker MUST be turned off making all circuits dead until power from an external source is introduced from the interlock breaker. This type of reliance manual transfer switch (MTS) allows a user to have "some" or "all" of the 10 circuits powered from an external source such as a solar generator while the remainder of the house continues to be powered from the grid source.
@@thechamp66 great use case powering from 2 sources but vast majority of people just lost their grid power and want to power their house with a generator
I hope u have time to answer my question. Btw great video. I installed this exact transfer switch. My ? Is. Can i run my generator with this transfer switch to lower my electric bill. In other words use it to power my AC and other high loads while using line power on the other breakers simultaneously. The reason is my job gives me access to alot of diesel fuel which i get for free. I have a diesel generator and i can kill 2 birds by getting rid of the oil and saving money on power bill. I have tried it and it does work nut i wonder if its safe.
Great question and wow! Free diesel?!? Anyway, use the generator to run things like a refrigerator and it might save you some money. Most generators do not deliver "clean" electricity so don't rely on them for sensitive electronics. Many people do exactly what you want to do with solar so I don't see why you can't 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff thanks for the reply. Im an hvac guy who does alot of oil to gas conversions so i end up getting the left over oil in customers tanks. Hoping this is a productive way to dispose of it.
Nice video. However, all of these videos should at least mention that the power source for the switch needs to have a bonded neutral! That "small" detail would have been very helpful to me!
@psuholetutube Thanks for mentioning that. Of course, the main panel is bonded and it seems you are correct, but this is the first I've heard of bonding the gas generator. That would have to be done with a buried grounding rod, I think. I didn't even find anything about that in any instructions. Thanks again! 🤠👍
@samsdoinstuff Many people resort to using a neutral ground bonding plug on the power source to satisfy the requirement. Many people seem to find them safe and at less than $20...a budget friendly solution.
@samsdoinstuff although the panel is bonded the most popular manual xfer switches like Reliance don't switch the neutral so the panel bond is gone and the source must provide the bond when switching from LINE to GEN
I have a question, if my transfer switch are all 15 amp breakers and the outlets in the house all sit on a 20 amp breaker in the electrical panel, can you connect your house outlets to your transfer switch?
Great question. The short answer is yes. The explanation is the 15 amp breaker is the transfer switch is only in play when the power is routed through the switch when it's in the "gen" position. The second reason is it is okay to put a 20 amp circuit on a 15 amp breaker. An overload would just trip the breaker. It IS NOT okay to do the opposite and put a 20 amp breaker on outlets rated for only 15 amps. An overload could cause the outlet to overheat and would be a fire hazard.
Guess what I'm doing next week? The same exact thing as your video this morning. It couldn't have come at a better time! 2024 is going great so far!😊😊😊
Fantastic! It really is a pretty easy install. Make sure you have plenty of time set aside and go slow and of course, be safe!!! Feels so good to have the peace of mind 😁👍
So am I.
Hey Buddy...you did an "Awesome Job" you had done what we call in the military..."Adapted and Over Come"!! At the end of the day. I understood every instruction that you had given!!👍
Thank you so much!!! And thank you for your service 🙏 👊
Great video! I have installed 1/2 dozen of these types of switches over the years but not in quite a while. Great refresher. I actually installed the same unit as you did in the video. I also purchased the wire strippers because of your video. Should have secured this tool years ago. The inlet took the bulk of the time as I had to navigate through quite a maze of plumbing, fixtures, joists and so. I tested the setup by just connecting one stand alone circuit (basement outlet) before moving on. That is the easy part. Anyway, thanks for the vid. Well done!
@tombateman161 Thank you so much! Glad you liked it. Those wire strippers are a game changer. I've used an old Radio Shack pair for about 35 years, lol 🤠👍
I followed your excellent video here and the one installing the outside inlet and all came out great. What I did different was to cut the male end off the 10 ft cable that came with kit and connected the cut wires to back of outside inlet and ran it through pvc conduit into basement leaving female end near transfer switch. I purchased a separate cable inlet and installed into transfer switch. I will plug in my cable to connect a generator or use a separate cable into transfer switch in future when I get a battery system. Generator works great and batteries should work in the future. Thanks for you great videos.
I couldn't be happier to read your comment! I'm so glad I could help, and congratulations on a successful install 🤠👍
Nicely done Sam. Great step by step video. It sure is nice to be prepared during a power outage.👍
Thank you very much! The peace of mind feels really good 😁👍
The transfer switch changes your house wiring so that a generator OR utility power is selected for given circuits in your house.. ONE or the OTHER but NOT both.. this protects the utility workers who are working on power lines in your neighborhood after a power failure from being electrocuted from power being unexpectedly "back fed" into the grid by a home owned generator. Utility workers have been killed in the past because someone wired a generator to feed directly into the house wiring and back into the grid through one of a variety of regular wall outlets instead of using a transfer switch. People do not realize that doing this connects your generator to the neighborhood power grid. This is not only dangerous but Illegal. The other issue with back feeding is when the power comes back on and your generator is still running, the utility's generator and yours are not phase matched (not compatible) and will probably cause a fire right after "the big flash". REALLY GOOD video, Sam
@@mikerootz5935 Thank you very much! And also thank you for explaining it so well 🤠👍
I'm doing this in a few days with the R510A transfer box. I got that one because I needed an outside rated box and it has the 50amp receptacle to match my generator. I like how inexpensive spare breakers are for these Reliant transfer switches, and they give you a list of all the compatible breaker models from the major brands.
Watching you will make things go a lot faster for me, thanks!
@@allegory7638 Thank you! I'm so happy I could help. Good luck with the installation 🤠👍
At about the 7:45 location of the video, a problem is described with the holes and screws when installing the provided inlet to the transfer box. The holes and screws are not the same size and required a nut to complete the installation. Close examination of the documentation shows that the provided inlet is not recommended for interior use. Instead, another inlet is recommended. I ordered the recommended inlet and the screws provided are a perfect match to the transfer box holes. So the holes were drilled to match the recommended interior inlet, not the provided exterior inlet.
All that aside, the documentation in another place says it is ok to install the provided exterior inlet into the transfer switch. Why the exterior is not recommended for interior use is not understood.
@georgedaniels8207 Thank you so much for that detailed explanation. I ended up moving the inlet outside and used the box provided. The screws fit perfectly for the exterior box. 🤠👍
I really like the focused emphasis and tenor (speed) at which you articulate the work. I sometimes can’t quite follow others as they “slow down “ their presentation screwing in every wire, cutting every cable…. Your emphasis is near perfect- you have a new subscriber here
Thank you! I try to get to the point and focus on the important stuff 🤠👍
I NEVER watch videos that are more than 5 minutes. I thoroughly enjoyed this, and learned a lot. For instance I did not know wire strippers like that existed. Def getting a pair.
Thank you for the wonderful compliments! I'm so glad you liked it. Here's a link to the strippers:
a.co/d/4auBFfY
Thank you!
Thanks you very much for explaining very clearly how to install a generator manual transfer switch. 😊
@paultruong1 You are very welcome! Glad you liked it 🤠 👍
Your instruction was awesome and I really appreciate the way you shoot and edit the videos!
@stevecunningham936 Thank you SO much for the wonderful compliment. So happy you liked it 🤠 👍
Good video and very well explained and well done. The only difference in Canada is that according to the CEC the wires in the panel that are going to be powered by the backup generator have to be pulled out of the panel and spliced in a separate junction box and not in the main panel. Since I'll be using my 8500Watt generator, I purchased the same brand inlet & panel but 50Amp and 50Amp power inlet ($950.00 icluding tax) myself and the electrician is charging me $1,600.00 for the installation only. So $2,550 for the complete installation. Yep, those are the prices in Canada.
@@galactichazzard8932 Wow! That's pricey. I spent roughly $500 on the Reliance Controls Transfer Switch kit and less than $100 on peripherals. Still, the peace of mind is priceless 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff It sure is, but this is Canada where we get royally screwed every single day of the year. Electrician is coming on the 10th so I'll have some peace of ming for the winter. I was tired of running cables through the windows during power outages and having stat up because of possible break-ins. I agree, peace of mind is everything lol.. Cheers
Happy New Year Sam! Nice install. The transfer switch will make things a lot easier when the power goes out. I like that you were thinking ahead mounting the input receptacle into the transfer switch panenl. Have a great weekend!
It is a great start to the new year! I feel really good that I got this done. Should have done it a while ago. Have a great day, Paul 😁👍
Great video, I did the exact same thing for my 6 circuit transfer switch off my solar inverter.
It's amazing how versatile these transfer switches are! 😎👍
Awesome video!!! I just got mine installed. I got the smaller one with only 6 circuits.
Thank you! Congratulations on the installation. Now the power will never go out again, lol 🤠👍
Enjoyed it Sam! Thanks
Thanks for watching! 🤠👍
Very good video and thank you for sharing. So therefore, if I understand this correctly, there is no need for a safety interlock on your main panel. And since the first point of disconnect is the generator then the generator needs to be bonded. Please correct me if I am mistaken.
Reason, I’m trying to get this clear in my head is because I’m getting ready to do this very thing.
Thank you so much and I liked and subbed.
Cheers from Dave.!😎✌️
Thank you Dave! Welcome to the channel. You are correct in all of your questions. It is a very safe system and cannot back feed the grid. I believe the generator can be bonded at the inlet box 🤠👍
Great video, watched completely. It is nice to future proof things. It sounded like the new panel had stranded wire. I wonder if the ends might be prepped with some solder on the ends before inserting in the neutral /ground and breaker screws prevent frays when clamping, or if it makes any difference? I would love to do one that has a cut over automatic option. Thanks for posting.
Thank you! It's a very reliable system with no chance of back feeding the grid. Automated systems cost quite a bit more but they sure are nice 🤠👍
Another video last night (not yours), I found myself falling asleep . Yes, I was tired but also videoed every nut and bolt assembly…😴💤
Haha I hear ya! That's why I try to focus on the most important parts! 😂👍
Great work. I like recommending electrical tape on all wire nuts in the panel. Keep up the great videos 🧬☀️🦾🪓
Thank you! I did tape the 220 connections. Might go back and do the others now that you said it. Thanks! 😁👍
After I installed our six and ten circuit Manual Transfer Switch, I went back and removed all the wire nuts, replacing them with Wago wire connectors. They work so much better and are safer.
@@Pk3_Garage I like those connectors as well. I’m kinda weird about electrical tape on seems. I put it on the wagos as well.
I hear you. Better to be safe than sorry
Thanks for this buddy...well explained and easy to follow along...thumbs up..!👍🏾💯
Thank you! I'm so glad I could help 🤠👍
Thanks for showing. I am going to hook up 6 circuit one hopefully this weekend. However. That will be loads i run to also save on energy cost. So they will not just backup power but also help save cost on daily solar generator.
You're welcome! Glad you liked it. That is a great use to save energy costs. Good luck! 🤠👍
Very good informational video. I have the gist of it down, just needed a few confirmations on some things and you did it. Thanks!
@m.z.1730 Thank you! So glad I could help 🤠 👍
so in a power out situation, do you still have to turn off the main box breaker to the entire house to prevent back feed to the grid?
Great question. No you don't. You can actually test your system without having a power outage. There is a direct disconnect from grid power when you switch each circuit from grid to generator.
@@samsdoinstuff thank you so much, going to be doing this soon. Is there a better alternative to wire nuts? not a fan of those things from automotive days
@@PyrateGraphics You can use WAGO connectors. Here's a link:
WAGO 221 Lever Nuts 78pc Compact Splicing Wire Connector Assortment with Case. Includes (34x) 221-412, (26x) 221-413, (18x) 221-415 a.co/d/7Og6oWU
Does this particular transfer switch and most others take standard circuit breakers or do you have to shop for special type?
Very good attention to detail 👍
Thank you very much!!! 😁👍
Awesome Job Sam 😁 Nice execution and installation. Thanks for sharing this video. 😁👍🚜💨☀️
I feel a huge sigh of relief having that job done! Have a good one, Mitch!!! 😁👍
I went through the exact same steps and had the same issues. Once it was complete I hooked it up to the eco flow DPUltra and it works great. Adding solar to the eco flow unit will help out with long term outages. Knowing you are on backup you need to be careful with your usage. One other item is to have a nearby receptacle for battery charging of your generator. Great video!
Thank you! That's the exact setup I hope to have. I like the Delta Pro Ultra, and I would like to have it set up as my main backup. Then, if the power is out too long and the solar panels aren'tenough, use the gas generator to charge it. All I need is about $10k 🤠👍
Thank you. Steps are simplified and easy to understand. Will try it; but not sure from where I can find the switch? I will try to find it
Thank you! Glad you liked the video 🤠👍
Not for nothing and with all due respect, you warned about NOT touching the HOT LEGS coming in at the top and not only did you look VERY close to it with your hand but you were wearing your wedding ring. I don't know, maybe I'm overly cautious but that looked a little scary. Thanks for the video, it was very informative.
@@michaeltammaro482 Oh my gosh! I never even thought about my wedding ring!!! (Obviously) I really should remove that more often or get one of those rubber ones. Thank you very much for the heads up! 🤠👍
Excellent presentation!!!
Thank you very much! Glad you liked it 🤠👍
Very thorough presentation.
@TheCaimbeul Thank you very much! Glad you liked it 🤠👍
Thanks for the great video.
1. Was this your main break or a sub? If a sub why do you not just turn off power to the sub for safety.
2. Our electrician says they have to have the power company turn power off to install this or the interlock option but you were able to do it without doing that, is that them just being extra safe or is it a different setup?
3. In Florida most quotes installed for interlock are about $2000, seems astronomical to me, any ideas of a normal price range for the labor portion?
Thank you! Great questions. 1. This is my main panel and I definitely turned off the main breaker. BUT, the poles on the main breaker are always hot so be sure to stay away from them. 2. Codes are different everywhere. I am able to do my install without turning off the power from the utility pole. 3. Once again, costs are different everywhere you go. $2,000 is probably typical for a professional electrician to install something like this. The unit cost me $500 from Home Depot. Feels good to know i saved that kind of money DIYing it 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuffthanks for the video and quick reply, just subscribed.
@davidgareauRN Thank you! And welcome to the channel!
I follow everything you're saying up to the last part of this video. At 30:14 - You talk about "coming back down" (into the basement I'm presuming) and then power outage and mention the main breaker being turn off? I'm confused at this point. I presume you mean the power outage and not the actual main being tripped or flipped off? Does the main breaker have to be tripped off for this device to be safe for lineman?
@Joebanker80 Great question. Sorry about the confusion. No, the main breaker does not have to be off. This system will not back-feed the grid because it disconnects from the main panel when you switch it over to generator. You don't even need to turn off the main breaker to test it. Simply hook up your generator as if there was a power outage and switch the circuits over from line to generator to make sure everything works as it should. 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuffI thought that’s what you meant but just wanted to double check.
Thank you for demonstrating the voltage flow once the transfer switch is turned on. Couldn't figure how that would work with out energizing the whole bus bar. So just to ask. do you have to turn the main circuit breaker switch off before you turn the transfer switch on?
@dpsflyboy Great question. The answer is no, you do not need to turn your main breaker off on your panel. The power source is rerouted so the breakers in the main panel are essentially feeding nothing when you switch to "gen" on the transfer switch. I really like that it is a very safe system 🤠👍
Perfect - But 🙂 When Using the wire-nut on the black wires at the breaker panel pre- twist the black wires to give them an error free solid connection then insert the wire nut for a trouble free connection and after tightening the wire nut give it a few twists of the wires so the loose wires are twisted as well to help prevent electrical vibration from loosening the wires over time. My opinion 🙂
@@daniellocke1011 Thank you for the advice! I'll remember that next time 🤠👍
Excellent video. Question: so we don't actually free any breakers in the existing panel. The ones we are setting up for access in the MTS are still technically in use in the main panel.
@cgf72 Great question. Yes, the flow of electricity is from the grid, through the main panel breaker, through the MTS, into each circuit. The MTS switches power supplied from the grid to being supplied from the generator. This prevents the generator from ever backfeeding the grid. You can also test your backup system without ever shutting off the main power in the panel. Hope this helps 🤠👍
So does the neutral from the generator just carry the imbalance of the branch circuits?also what does the single white wire from the transfer do?is it just for the power meters?
Those questions may go a bit beyond my basic knowledge. I know white is neutral, and the neutral and ground are bonded in the main panel. The 30 amp power supplied from the generator simply turns the house circuits into a bunch of extension cords. I'm sure there's more to it, but it's safe and it works so I'm happy 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff The white also should be the return path to the generator, I think. So it should have a connection to where you attached the white of the generator inlet.
Thanks for sharing this! I’m gonna do it but use my 48v golf cart as my generator. Was really great tutorial. Cheers!
@@stian222 Thank you! That's a very creative power source 👏 Good luck with the installation 🤠👍
Now that's interesting...with the correct inverter, it should work pretty well.
Yeah until your 48v golf cart runs out of juice
Great video, thanks. Just to be clear. With this setup, can I run my 30 amp wire from the generator straight into the 30 amp outlet on the transfer switch? No outside Inlet box is needed. Thanks
@RFC1997 Great question. Yes, the intlet can be installed directly to the transfer switch casing or, outside by using 10 awg wire or larger 🤠👍
Thank you for the ❤️ but I was looking for an answer lol. Looking for love in all the wrong places.
@@RFC1997 Did you not see my answer? UA-cam can be weird sometimes
@@samsdoinstuff See it now, Thanks❤️❤️❤️❤️lol
Great video. Will be very helpful soon. One question! Once installed, did you say you turned off the main breaker while using power from the generator? I didn’t think that was necessary .
@TonySmigelski Thank you! So glad you liked it. You do not have to turn off the man breaker to use the transfer switch. It has a clean disconnect from the grid so there's no chance of back feeding the grid 🤠👍
@ my kit arrived so next weekend I’ll be doing the install. Thank you
That little factory that the black & red wires are labeled A B C etc. is nowhere in the install PDF from Reliance - I've been staring at one that someone else installed for a week! I have to replace some of the circuits in the main panel due to a remodel at my friend's house & it was driving me nuts!
@WATERTUBULAR Oh my goodness! That must be mind-numbing. I'm sure you'll get it done. Good luck! 🤠👍
Tried to say "factoid" - 'auto correct is always 'auto wrong' - anyway, your video cleared up everything - got the whole remodel rewired to the main panel, with, with 10 loads linked over to the Reliance & on solar/battery backup. So - good one!
Great work, but I'm i wrong? I thought you weren't allowed to have any wire nut connections in the breaker box. Does anyone know if I've been wrong all these years?
@@tomdorman2486 Great question. I'm sure different codes and regulations exist for various states and municipalities. I wonder if Wago connectors meet more stringent codes? I would suggest calling a licensed electrician. You can still do the work yourself, but they may have the answers you need 🤠👍
Wire nuts are permitted, but check your local building permit department in case they have different rules.
The NEC reference is Article 312.8 (A)
Can you configure these with any breaker combination you want on the transfer switch side? I want one with a 50a input and 6 20a single pole breakers and 4 15a single pole breakers.
@jjay718 Great question. You can change out the breakers in the transfer switch but be careful not to exceed the amperage limitations of the wires going to and from the main panel. 🤠👍
Can I switch out one of the breakers with a 30 amp breaker?
Great question. Yes, the unit is rated up to 30 amps. Make sure you use one of the 240 sets of breakers. You'll notice the wires are a thicker awg for those channels 🤠👍
Can you add an additional input feed to power one of the circuits?
Great question. I personally would not modify the unit, but an electrician might know a way to do that. Good luck 🤠👍
Thank you for this excellent informative video which will provide significant savings. By the way, what gauge wire did you use to connect inlet box to transfer switch?
@gammadas Thank you! Glad you liked it! I used 8 awg wire but 10 awg is sufficient 🤠👍
Hello,
Was your installation done in Canada? If not, do you know if the Canadian code allows the connections you used for the installation of the generator electrical box?
@renepatry7049 Great question. My installation was not done in Canada and I am not familiar with Canadian codes. I certainly recommend checking your local laws, rules and codes before attempting to install 🤠👍
Thank you, have nice day
Question. Do you still have to turn main breaker off when using generator
Great question. You certainly can, but with this manual transfer switch, there is a hard disconnect from the grid power so you don't necessarily have to. Your generator will power the circuits you've chosen and when the power comes back on, you don't have to worry about back-feeding the grid because those circuits are disconnected through the transfer switch. Hope this helps! 🤠👍
Does it matter which pair of red wires you connected to the 220 volt well curcuit? Great video Sam.
@@Billster1955 Thank you! Great question. Yes, there are a set of wires that are a higher guage (thicker wire) specifically for the 220 applications. 🤠👍
@samsdoinstuff thank you Sam
Is there a way to have inlet outside and inside?
Great question! I definitely think it's possible and I would use a selector switch inside. Run each inlet I to the switch and one output from the switch to the transfer switch. Should work perfectly 🤠👍
Thanks for doing this Sam! BTW....what generator did you use?
@dennisnardantonio1380 You are so welcome! I'm using a Ryobi 6500 but I would not recommend it. It was the lowest cost / power and the carburetor gets gummed up pretty easily. 🤠👍
Good video so that white wire that you’re hooking to the ground bar that is the white wire that is connected to the outlet correct I just got mine today and when I opened the bottom panel, the white wire wasn’t connected to anything it was just sitting there so that’s for the plug correct ?
The white wire is the neutral. It should be connected to something. There shouldn't be any loose wires. If the white wire is missing from the inlet, that's probably it. Hope this helps 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff the white wire wasn’t connected to anything inside the transfer switch where the circuit breakers are
@@samsdoinstuff so where is the white wire connected at where the circuit breakers are? I guess that’s the easiest way to ask that’s why I was thinking that white wire that wasn’t connected to anything to the outlet box.
@cessnapilot1990 I think at this point I would have to see it. There's a white neutral wire that goes into the main panel and gets connected to the neutral bar. That should be pre-wired into the transfer switch. Then there's a white neutral that gets wire nutted to the wire you provide to connect the inlet. Not sure if there's another one I'm missing.
Curious as those are 15 amp fuses how did you connect them to other fuses on the main panel that require 20 amps? Or did you only pick 15 amp? I ask because a lot of things I would want to power are on 20
Great question. The transfer switch accepts up to 20 amp connections. 30 amp connections can be used on the higher amp breakers 🤠👍
Couldn’t you just add a 30 amp double fuse to the panel that would backfeed the panel and forgo the entire panel? The it would power everything on the panel up to the wattage of your generator. I feel like that would save a ton on installation and allow more flexibility. Obviously got to make sure that the main is off to protect lineman, but in my mind that would work too. I’m also not an electrician but thinking about options for my own home.
@@brendenpetersen5481 that’s a question I had for a long time and I just hooked up my 30 amp generator inlet box. I then connected my inlet box to my main panel on a 30 amp breaker. Now keep in mind that when you do it this way you have to install a safety interlock kit, which is mounted underneath the main shut off. It allows only one breaker to be on at a time. So therefore, the 30 amp breaker that you used to connect your generator inlet to must be right under the main shut off. You have to get the one for your particular electrical panel. It’s actually easier than putting in a transfer switch.
Not sure if this helped you out, but I hope it did.
Oh, and I almost forgot to mention… That if your generator comes bonded, then you need to unbond it for this type of hook up. Another words, the ground and the neutral do not need to be connected together on your generator because your main panel is already providing that, and you can only have one panel bonded.
The new panels will have covers for the services
@@leonardhenderson6723 Good to know 🤠👍
50 videos on the transfer switch and not one video speaks to the meter shown at the to of the switch box; What does it measure in or out current? what to look for? how to read it? I'm not sure how to ignore it like it isn't there.
Great question and I'm sorry I didn't address that in the video. The meters measure the amount of power coming from the generator in relation to the amount used by each side of the transfer switch. It is ideal to keep each 120 volt side under equal load. The meters allow the user to monitor that load. Hope this helps 🤠👍
@samsdoinstuff Thanks for explaining.
Good video! My project is to connect an EcoFlow Delta Pro battery power station for power outage backup to my breaker panel using a transfer switch. Eventually I would want to create a Hybrid power system in which I would get 50-75% of my power from solar.
I have identified 10 critical circuits that I can connect to the transfer switch, but in the future I may want to add more circuits. Being that the largest transfer switch on the market only has 10 circuits, is there a way to combine them?
I also would like a Delta Pro some day. Good choice. There's no doubt in my mind you could use 2 transfer switch systems for 20 total circuits. Just do a double install side by side. You would need 2 generators as well 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff EcoFlow has a setup that has a connect that uses a double voltage hub that requires to Delta Pros and provides 240V, However I do not nee this because I am only dealing with 110V service
Only connecting 110V services to the Delta Pro and leaving the 220 V services connected to the grid. Even had my 220V Submersible well pump removed and replaced by a Grundfos 10SQ05-160 115v 3" Submersible Water Well Pump.
If I installed a 2nd transfer switch could i use something like a Finderomend Dryer Splitter Adapter to connect both transfer switch to the Delta Pro. Presently have one extra battery and will be adding a secound when I get this setup.
@@NBPostman sounds good 👍
Hey you gave me an idea but in order for my idea to work I need to ask you. That outlet you used from the box, are they all standard size? I ask because the Reliance TS I’m thinking of buying A501A comes with the optional power outlet and the 50’amp power cord I’m buying comes with an outlet box with an outlet. If I can do what you did with the outlet that comes with my cord I can buy the Reliance TS without power outlet option and save some dough.
Thank you for your question. First, I always feel best using what comes with a kit rather than piecing different brands together. Also, my TS is a 30 amp version, just to be clear. That's what works with my generator. If both are the same brand, however I would think the outlets would fit in either one because there is an option of using a 50 amp inlet instead of a 30 amp inlet so they should be interchangeable. No guarantees, but I hope this helps 🤠👍
All that power goes thru that single nuetral wire?
Great question. A neutral wire only carries the unused electricity back, if I remember correctly. The installation is correct. That I'm sure of 🤠👍
Does this transfer switch and most others take a standard circuit breaker like you can find at your Home Depot?
Yes, I believe it does. I always use brand specific breakers with whatever box I have. Just my opinion.
Yes - Had to pickup a 20 amp Siemens for the 6 bay MTS….
Very good. Thank you.
@MichaelDirk You are welcome and thank you! 🤠👍
can you install this if your panel is in the closet?
You just need space next to your main panel and the ability to run wire to the outside for the generator.
@@samsdoinstuff alright. thanks. asking because panels in the closet are no longer code but grandfathered in, I believe.
I’m sorry to keep bothering and I promise I’m not a troll (whatever that is). Question: the generator I have is a 50 amp and the manual switch I bought was rated 50 amp. I’ve seen reviews regarding this particular manual switch about the gauge of wire being 10g but need to be at least 8g for bigger loads like the well pump and A/C. Have you had any issues with the smaller g wire? My AC in the panel have two 30 amp fuses and if there is a chance this switch won’t work then I need to seek out an alternative. Thanks again!
@SFCSMOKER No problem. I'm happy to help if I can. Short answer is I used 8 awg wire. The instructions do say you can use 10 awg, but I felt the same way you do so I used 8. It seems obvious but make sure you get the 50 amp version. I'm pretty sure it's just a different inlet but you want it to match your generator.
@@samsdoinstuff roger that. I did purchase the 50. I guess if you match the breakers and wire gauge in the main, it'll work. I may not be able to run all of the wires through the conduit, but I have a plan for that. Thank you sir for your experience and the video. You have been the most informative thus far and I have watched a bunch of videos.
What amp rating is that Manuel transfer switch??
Great question! It is a 30 amp. They also make a 50 amp version 🤠👍
I just installed one for my jackery solar generator, was pretty basic stuff.
Nice! It is pretty basic, but easy to mess up in a hurry too 🤠👍
If I use this box with the power being fed from a 120v source, how do I handle having 2 line wires to connect? Do I connect my one source line to both switch lines in? Would that cause an error, especially if the lines serviced are running into the house panel having 2 phases? I ran with the scenario I just described and do get GF error and am not able to power anything when I switch from Line to Gen. If that is the problem how do I separate the 2 phases in the switch box? I have reliance Model 30408. Thanks in advance.
That question may be above my skill set. I would ask an electrician. The way I did it is as per the instructions. Good luck 🤠👍
No problem. Thanks anyway. Great video as well! 👍
So the power has gone off. I have switched my main breaker from the grid to the “Off” position. I have hooked up my generator and switched all the switches to “GEN”. Started my generator and determined that all the circuits wired thru the manual switch are working. CAN I NOW TURN MY MAIN BREAKER BACK ON? (Not shouting).
Great video by the way.
@SFCSMOKER Yes. As a matter of fact, because the transfer switch has a direct cut off between "gen" and "line", you don't necessarily have to turn off your main breaker in the main panel. There's no risk of back-feeding the grid from your generator so you can simply switch back to line when the power comes back on. Hope this helps 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff you sir have unknowingly saved me a couple thousand dollars. Initially my plan was an outside transfer switch with the generator directly into the panel, for several reasons it wasn’t going to be DIY. I watched several videos but none was as thorough as yours. Made me confident I could go with this method. Thanks and God Bless
@SFCSMOKER This is the best comment I've read in weeks. So happy I could help. That's the whole reason I started my channel. God bless!!!
what my home insurance company thinks about me connecting transfer switch myself? 🤔
@CanadaRulez4Ever Haha! It's a DIY project, but DIY should be "DIYIYKWYD" (do it yourself if you know what your doing) 🤠👍
Good job very nice and neat!!
Thank you! This one was very rewarding 😁👍
Confused Gere about circuit breakers In .y main panel some are 15 so.e are twenty Amp and I have sub panel also the extension cord is three prong you wired 4 wires
Great questions. You are fine wiring 15 or 20 amp circuits. Do not exceed 20 amps. The 240 amp breakers can accept up to 30 amps. There are 4 wires in the inlet because the incoming power is divided into 2, 120 amp feeds to each side of the main panel. Try to distribute the incoming power from the generator equally between both sides of the panel. You can power a sub-panel with one of the 240 circuits as long as the combined load from the sub-panel doesn't exceed 30 amps. Hope this helps 🤠👍
Very detailed instructions
@chispan9965 Thank you! So happy I could help 🤠👍
So how do u run zo the gas gen eith this st up
@leonardhenderson6723 Great question. I ran the umbilical through a small window. Worth noting, I have since installed the inlet outside 🤠👍
Good 👍 job brother
Thank you! Glad you liked it 🤠👍
never understood why folks choose this over a manual interlock.... much cheaper, easier to install, flexible and just as easy to use. Just manually choose which circuits you can want to use that won't overload the generator. I don't want to have to limit myself to 10 circuits... I can choose my own safely...
Thank you for the information. I'll have to research what a manual interlock is. 🤠👍
Manual interlocks are easier to install, but you run risk of making your ground run live or hot if you have a bonded neutral generator. Also would be a code violation from my understanding if you had a bonded neutral generator and used an interlock.
@@TheManiac12992 - that’s a simple solution. Unbond the generator and make it a floating neutral. Westinghouse has very clear instructions on how to do this in their user manuals. It’s removing one jumper. Takes 15 min tops.
I have a bonded plug hanging on a cord for the case when I want to use the generator stand-alone which is a very rare event. Just plug it into one of the 120v receptacle’s
Although Interlock Kits are easier to install, they are an "All" or "Nothing" solution.
With an Interlock Kit, the main panel power breaker MUST be turned off making all circuits dead until power from an external source is introduced from the interlock breaker.
This type of reliance manual transfer switch (MTS) allows a user to have "some" or "all" of the 10 circuits powered from an external source such as a solar generator while the remainder of the house continues to be powered from the grid source.
@@thechamp66 great use case powering from 2 sources but vast majority of people just lost their grid power and want to power their house with a generator
Great tutorial 👍 Thanks!
So glad it was helpful! You are very welcome 🤠👍
I hope u have time to answer my question. Btw great video. I installed this exact transfer switch. My ? Is. Can i run my generator with this transfer switch to lower my electric bill. In other words use it to power my AC and other high loads while using line power on the other breakers simultaneously. The reason is my job gives me access to alot of diesel fuel which i get for free. I have a diesel generator and i can kill 2 birds by getting rid of the oil and saving money on power bill. I have tried it and it does work nut i wonder if its safe.
Great question and wow! Free diesel?!? Anyway, use the generator to run things like a refrigerator and it might save you some money. Most generators do not deliver "clean" electricity so don't rely on them for sensitive electronics. Many people do exactly what you want to do with solar so I don't see why you can't 🤠👍
@@samsdoinstuff thanks for the reply. Im an hvac guy who does alot of oil to gas conversions so i end up getting the left over oil in customers tanks. Hoping this is a productive way to dispose of it.
I would have just wired the generator inlet outside the panel and bought new conduit to make it easier to run. Not worth messing with it.
@@gilborealty Good idea! I did end up putting the inlet outside for the time being 🤠👍
Nicely done
Thank you! Glad you liked it 🤠👍
Nice video. However, all of these videos should at least mention that the power source for the switch needs to have a bonded neutral! That "small" detail would have been very helpful to me!
@psuholetutube Thanks for mentioning that. Of course, the main panel is bonded and it seems you are correct, but this is the first I've heard of bonding the gas generator. That would have to be done with a buried grounding rod, I think. I didn't even find anything about that in any instructions. Thanks again! 🤠👍
@samsdoinstuff Many people resort to using a neutral ground bonding plug on the power source to satisfy the requirement. Many people seem to find them safe and at less than $20...a budget friendly solution.
@samsdoinstuff although the panel is bonded the most popular manual xfer switches like Reliance don't switch the neutral so the panel bond is gone and the source must provide the bond when switching from LINE to GEN
@@psuholetutube That makes total sense now! I hope others will read your comments. Very helpful 👌
That's what I put in my house same system
@ironeagle2526 It's a really good feeling to be ready and this is an affordable, effective solution 🤠👍
Not really the right solution for battery backup.
True. The best setup would be the smart switch that goes with the battery systems. They are much more expensive 🤠👍
It's called a knock out
@leonardhenderson6723 Yes it is 🤠👍
Extreme overfill of conduit
@@Time-Trvlr You may be correct, but that's what comes from the manufacturer
People are shocked when they find out that I'm actually not an electrician! Sorry couldn't help myself.
@@SFCSMOKER 🤣👍
I have a question, if my transfer switch are all 15 amp breakers and the outlets in the house all sit on a 20 amp breaker in the electrical panel,
can you connect your house outlets to your transfer switch?
Great question. The short answer is yes. The explanation is the 15 amp breaker is the transfer switch is only in play when the power is routed through the switch when it's in the "gen" position. The second reason is it is okay to put a 20 amp circuit on a 15 amp breaker. An overload would just trip the breaker. It IS NOT okay to do the opposite and put a 20 amp breaker on outlets rated for only 15 amps. An overload could cause the outlet to overheat and would be a fire hazard.
@samsdoinstuff Thank you.