A generator is the type of product which exists in every household. Whether for power outages or for outdoor adventures, generators have become a need.
It is one thing to have a generator and another thing to connect it. This is where a generator transfer switch kit will come into play. I’m sure most of you know what a generator switch does, but I will still explain a bit.
A transfer switch is the device used to connect the generator to an electrical supply. The secondary power source (generator) is connected to the circuits in buildings using this switch. So one can say it is an important accessory to have.
I have found 10 of the best transfer switches available so you can choose a favourite! This article has a bunch of automatic and manual transfer switches.
Table of Contents
10 Best Transfer Switches for Generators
The search can go on forever but to save you time and effort, here is a collection of all the transfer switches that are doing super well in the market. Read on ahead!
1. Reliance Controls Transfer Switch Kit for Generators
The reason for starting with Reliance is because of the company’s repute. Well, that and this switch’s performance. It makes installing a generator very easy.
Also, I myself have been a user of this switch for very long now. So I am not afraid to back this up with my own experience. It has made my life very easy. I’ve never had to worry about power outages because of this product.
As soon as the power shuts down for any reason, my generator gets activated on auto. I will mention however, that you should let an electrician come and install it if you don’t have the experience.
The manual is not the best and can make things complicated. If you feel confident that you can make it work, go ahead! If not, well there are many amazing tutorials on the internet to guide you.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 7 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 13.52 pounds
- Operation Mode: ON-OFF-ON
- Current Rating: 30 Amps
- Operating Voltage: 250 Volts (AC)
- Switch Type: Toggle Switch
- Hose Length: 10.00 Feet
- Power Source Type: Corded-Electric
- Mounting Type: Surface Mount
Features
- Compatible with 7,500-watt generators equipped with NEMA L14-20 or L14-30 power outlets.
- Has 30A 6-circuit pre wired loadside reliance transfer switch.
- Has labelled circuit wires.
- Built in junction box to save costs.
2. Go Power! TS-50 50 Amp Automatic Transfer Switch
This is an automatic transfer switch for generator. It is perfect for inverters, shore power or generators. Installation is very easy because this kit comes with knockouts. All you have to do is to delay the switch on it so you can use it with a generator.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 10.5 x 6.5 x 4.5 inches
- Weight: 6 pounds.
- Current Rating: 50 Amps
Features
- This is an automatic transfer switch.
3. 110V Dual Power Automatic Transfer Switch Dual Power Generator
This cool switch actually gives two options; You can use the automatic power supply as suggested by the name of it or you can also use the manual mode in the switch. Depending on your preference, it can be a versatile product. Here are additional details.
Product specifications
- Dimensions: 5.91 x 5.39 x 4.65 inches
- Weight: 2.84 pounds.
- Line Voltage: AC110V
- Line Current: 6A-63A
Features
- Has 3C certification.
- Has signal indication.
- Can switch to manual mode when needed.
- Can function with single-phase AC110V power supply.
- Conversion time for the product is 2S.
4. Connecticut Electric EGS107501G2KIT Manual Transfer Switch
This is one of the oldest electronics companies in America. They are popular for providing quality products to people. This switch is compatible with emergency aka portable generators. Here is their transfer switch for a portable generator.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 11.5 x 20.5 x 14.5 inches
- Weight: 28.8 pounds.
- Operating Voltage: 240 Volts.
- Switch Type: 1-way
- Switch Style: Rocker Switch
- Power Cord: 10 feet.
- Power Source: Corded-electric
- Wattage: 7500 watts
Features
- Comes with an inlet box.
- The steel enclosure is powder-coated to prevent rust.
- Has double-throw switches.
- Has mini breakers protect branch circuits when in gen mode.
5. 306C Pro/Tran 30-Amp 6-Circuit 2 Manual Transfer Switch
This too is a product from Reliance. It is like the one talked about above, the main variation is the size. The rest of its qualities are similar to the previous one.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 7.75 x 11.25 inches
- Weight: 11.4 pounds
- Unit Count: 1 Count
Features
- Can plug into a 240VAC generator.
- It is an indoor model.
6. Surge Guard 40100 Basic Automatic Transfer Switch – 50 Amp
Here I have a good old automatic transfer switch for you. Let’s have a closer look at the product.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 13.5 x 13 x 6 inches.
- Weight: 8 pounds.
- Current Rating: 50 Amps
- Connector Type: Screw
- Unit Count 1.0 Count
- Generator dominant
- 120/240 Volt, 50A
- Frequency: 60 Hz
Features
- Transfers to generator power on auto.
- Once shut down, it reactivates after 3-4 seconds delay.
7. Progressive Dynamics PD52V 5200 Series Automatic Transfer Switch
This heavy and hardcore model has a tough demeanor but is the opposite. It is easy to wire and its design minimizes any wiring issues. It can readily be wired to a contactor base.
If needed the hardcore cover can be removed with ease.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 14.17 x 10.94 x 5.51 inches.
- Weight: 5.51 pounds.
- 240 VAC, 50 Amps
Features
- Screw-type wiring terminals.
- 70 Amp neutral rating.
- Has a smooth exterior.
8. Flameweld NEMA 3R Power Inlet Box
This 30 amp transfer switch is ideal for outdoor use because it is weatherproof. This might be the transfer switch you have been looking for!
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 7.28 x 4.09 x 3.66 inches
- Weight: 1.75 Pounds.
- Operating voltage range: 125/250V, 7500W
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Unit Count: 1 Count
- Specification Met: UL
Features
- Suitable for use with a power cord.
- Anti-corrosive and waterproof body of steel coat. It will not get worn.
- Has large spaces for convenient wiring and appropriate heat dissipation.
- Can be used for outdoor generators or can be used as a transfer switch for portable generators.
9. Go Power! GP-TS 30 Amp Prewired Transfer Switch
I have already talked about this brand but this is a different product. It has an extra wire added to the package for charging purposes. It can be charged and used at the same time.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 4 x 8 inches.
- Weight: 4.44 pounds
- Mounting Type: Plug-In Mount
- Unit Count: 1 Count
- Connector Type: Quick Connect
- Bulb Type: LED
Features
- Used to hardwire inverters into a system where an alternative source of AC is needed.
- It comes pre-wired for ease and convenience.
- Has a 15 Amp outlet attached?
- Can connect to a battery charger without interfering with AC flow.
10. WFCO T30WM 30 Amp Transfer Switch
This amazing little contraption is designed for 30 Amp devices. This transfer switch is basically installed at the back of the WFCO 8900 Series power centers.
This device makes it very simple to switch from shore power to generator. Let’s see it in more detail.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 5 x 6 x 5 inches.
- Weight: 4.25 pounds.
- Operating Voltage: 120 Volts
- AC Rating: 120 volts/30 amps
- Unit Count: 1 Count.
Features
- This switch can mount on a flat surface.
- Safe and reliable engineering.
- Has “break before make” configuration.
Buying Guide: What’s best for you?
Now that you have read your way through the article, you can make better decisions. I have mentioned a total of ten transfer switches in the list to reduce your confusion. Often when we have too many choices to make it becomes overwhelming.
This is why it can be helpful to have a guide such as this one. In this guide, I will highlight some features for you so you can buy the perfect switch. You don’t have to waste time, effort, or money.
Automatic Transfer Switches
If you are someone who chooses comfort and ease, you might like automatic transfer switches. Whether you have a portable generator with a transfer switch or a fixed one, automatic will make things better. You can install options 2,3,6 and 7 from this list. All these are automatic and will turn the generator on as soon as power is down.
Manual Transfer Switches
If you prefer having a manual transfer switch for the generator, you should choose options 1,4,5,8,9, and 10 from the list. The majority of the options are manual here.
Outdoor Friendly
The transfer switch might be outside in your case. If so, go for option 8 because this switch is designed to sustain against weather conditions. It will not get ruined or corroded no matter the climate.
Hardcore Switch
If you need a transfer switch to last long, option 7 is it. The metal body makes it very durable. This transfer switch can not get any damage and is better compared to the ones with plastic casings in this regard.
Budget-Friendly
It is understandable that not everyone has a lot of cash to spend on such products. Even though it is a need, one should not overspend. If you want a transfer switch that is budget-friendly, choose 10,6,4 or 3.
Conclusion
Now that you are here, I am going to assume you have your choice set out. You probably had a rough idea of what you need, but now you have absolute clarity. Transfer switches can be very useful products to have in the house, especially in regions where power outages are frequent. You have a good variety to choose from in this article. Whether you need it for an outdoor generator, or for indoors, whether you need a big sturdy switch or a tiny compact one, there is something for everyone here.
