The generator you are using as your home’s power backup won’t be very useful unless you connect it to a transfer switch. The best manual transfer switches on the market keep your home appliances safe by enabling you to monitor the power consumption on each circuit.
However, the size of your generator determines the type of transfer switch you need to get, since opting for a manual transfer switch that cannot handle your generator’s power output might damage the electrical installations in your home and the appliances you were using.
In this article, we are going to provide you with all the information you need to choose a transfer switch for your home and take you through the 7 best manual transfer switches available on the market at the moment.
How does a manual transfer switch work?
Although connecting a generator to the breaker box without a transfer switch is possible, this process is highly technical.
Hence, installing a manual transfer switch in your home is the best way to ensure that the electricity produced by the generator won’t damage the devices you’re using during a power outage.
A manual transfer switch enables you to connect the generator to the circuit breaker panel and choose which circuits you are going to use while the main power source is out.
You will be able to use all appliances that are on the circuit you switched on so that you can power only the devices that are essential to you during an emergency. Moreover, the size of your generator determines how many circuits you can use.
A 5000-Watt generator cannot power more than six circuits, so if you want to use up to ten circuits at the same time you’re going to need a generator that can provide more than 7500 running Watts.
A manual transfer switch is connected to a power inlet box that is usually installed on an exterior wall and the home’s main breaker panel.
Once the power goes down, you must plug in the generator into a power inlet box in order to create a power transfer system that enables the electricity produced by the generator to reach the home appliances safely.
Differentiating between different types of manual transfer switches
Although you shouldn’t wire a manual transfer switch on your own, learning as much as you can about different types of transfer switches will help you choose the one that best fits your needs.
The design or the style of a manual switch depends on its type and you must determine if the model you are interested in offers the features you’re looking for. Here are some of the things you need to pay attention to while choosing a new manual transfer switch.
Manual transfer switch type
There are five common manual transfer switch types and each of them offers features that are designed for different applications.
Simple KIT
Designed for homeowners and users with low power consumption demands, Simple KITS includes all the cables, switches, and power cords you need to connect a generator to a breaker panel.
Rated Load Centers
These manual transfer switches can have up to 40 circuits which makes them suitable for large establishments.
Single Circuit
Best suited for industrial applications single-circuit manual transfer switches provide additional safety for generators that power furnaces, pumps, and similar devices.
Standard Switches
Designed to handle loads in the range between 100A and 900A, standard switches are usually more expensive than any other type of manual transfer switch.
Specified Circuitry
These devices enable you to power only a designated circuit and keep all other circuits on the breaker panel switched off.
Switch style
You can choose between three designs of manual transfer switches and the installation process for each of them is different.
Pre-wired
Even though installing a pre-wired manual transfer switch is relatively easy, their safety features are far from perfect.
Inlet box
This is the most common style of a manual transfer switch that enables you to plug in a generator to an inlet box that sends electricity to a transfer switch that is connected to a breaker panel.
Outdoor Switch
This is probably the safest option, as you can install an outdoor switch in a waterproof housing in your courtyard to eliminate the chances of damages caused by a transfer switch failure.
Finding the right manual transfer switch for your home
Consulting with an electrician that will install the manual transfer switch in your home is advisable because it will give you a better idea which model to look for.
The quality of the enclosure, the maximum amperage, or the duration of the warranty period are some of the things you need to take into consideration while choosing a transfer switch. Let’s take a look at all factors you have to consider in order to get the right manual transfer switch.
Check the amperage
This is the first and probably the most important thing you will have to check, as the amperage a transfer switch can handle needs to match the generator’s maximum amperage.
So, if your generator cannot produce more than 30A, then there is no reason to get a transfer switch that has a larger amp size.
Built-in Voltage meter
Overloading a generator can damage it permanently, which is why it is important to know how much power you are using at any moment.
A manual transfer switch with a built-in Voltage meter will help you monitor the current power consumption and reduce the chances of exceeding the generator’s maximum power output.
Get the manual transfer switch with the correct number of circuits
The number of circuits you can use depends on the generator’s size, so if you have a unit that can provide 8000 running Watts, you should opt for a pre-wired transfer switch with ten circuits.
Optionally, you can also get a model that allows for a customized installation if you are unsure how many circuits you are going to be using.
Opt for a NEMA certified enclosure
A NEMA certified manual transfer switch is resistant to rain, snow, or harsh weather conditions, as well as physical damage. These enclosures ensure that your manual transfer switch is safe regardless of the context in which you use it.
Buy an entire kit
Getting a pre-wired or inlet box kit that contains all the components you need to install a manual transfer switch will make the process of connecting a generator to a breaker panel much easier.
In addition, you won’t have to deal with compatibility issues if you purchase an entire kit instead of buying each component separately.
Check the duration of the warranty
Even though manual transfer switches are built to handle heavy loads, there is no guarantee that they won’t break down. A long warranty period offered by the manufacturer will enable you to repair a manual transfer switch without any additional cost.
The 7 best manual transfer switches
Finding the manual transfer switch that is compatible with your generator is paramount because you may put your safety at risk if the generator’s amperage exceeds the maximum amperage a manual transfer switch can handle.
We’ve selected the 7 best manual transfer switches on the market, but you must check if any of these models matches your generator’s demands.
Reliance Controls 31410CRK Pro
This is a 10-circuit manual transfer switch that is designed for generators that can supply up to 7500 running Watts. Reliance Controls 31410CRK Pro is also equipped with a NEMA L14-30 outlet for 5000-Watt generators. In addition, this model offers 5 maximum double-pole circuits.
It is configured for 30A and 240V power output, but the NEMA L14-20 outlet enables you to use it with 20A generators. The kit contains a 10-feet PC3010 power cord, an inlet box, wire nuts, and an 18-inch conduit whip that enables you to connect the transfer switch to the load center.
You can decide if you want to install this manual transfer switch outside or indoors, although exposure to rain or cold may impact its performance.
Reliance Controls 31410CRK Pro comes with a 5-year warranty which enables you to replace any of its parts that break down during this period free of charge.
Pros
- The kit contains all components you need to connect a generator to a breaker panel
- Suitable for 30A and 20A generators
- Pro/Tran feature enables you to power critical loads
- Long warranty period
Cons
- The design of the power inlet box needs improvements
- Designed for 7500 or 5000-Watt generators
Connecticut Electric EGS107501G2 Kit
The safe transition of power Connecticut Electric EGS107001G2 manual transfer switch ensures that your home appliances cannot be damaged by the electricity provided by the generator. This model is compatible with all load centers and you can pair it with a 7500-Watt generator.
The kit contains a 10 circuit transfer switch, a power inlet, and a 10-foot power cord, while the NEMA 3 rating guarantees that you can install both the power inlet and the transfer switch indoors or outdoors.
Furthermore, you can connect all generators with outputs up to 30A to this manual transfer switch, while you can also choose if you want to use 120V or 240V power. This model also features a voltmeter so that you can monitor the power consumption and avoid overloading the generator.
Pros
- Straightforward installation process
- Durable NEMA 3 rated enclosure
- Compatible with all load centers
- Provides protection against power surges
Cons
- The warranty period lasts for just one year
- Lacks the capacity to handle large loads
EZ Generator Switch
In case you are looking for an inexpensive manual transfer switch that can be used to manage heat systems, 120V well pumps, or lighting circuits, then you should consider getting an EZ Generator Switch.
This pre-wired manual transfer switch is both UL and CSA compliant and it handles loads of 15A or 125V. The model comes with wire nuts, a back box, and 24-inch leads as well as a diagram that shows you how to wire it correctly.
You will have to use an extension cord to connect your generator to this manual transfer switch, and you can easily switch between Normal, Generator, and Off options once the power transfer system is established.
Extending the EZ Generator Switch’s capacity up to 240V is not possible and you won’t be able to decide which circuits on the main breaker panel are powered.
Pros
- Compatible with a broad range of generators
- Meets the highest safety standards
- Works with inverter generators that have GFI outlets
- Prevents backfeeding
Cons
- Doesn’t support 30A generators
- No circuit breakers
Generac 9854
Any generator that has a GFCI outlet can be used with the Generac 9854 manual transfer switch. This Generac’s model has 10 to16 circuits and it can handle loads that are sufficient to power home appliances, tools, or machinery.
Moreover, like all pre-wired systems, this manual transfer generator features an electric rocker button that lets you switch between the utility and generator power.
Generac 9854 also has the indicator light that informs you that the power going through the transfer switch is coming from the generator. This manual transfer switch can handle up to 11000 Watts and as much as 50A.
However, this model doesn’t come with a power inlet or a power cord and you must purchase these items separately. Also, you won’t be able to monitor your current power consumption from this transfer switch because it doesn’t have a voltmeter.
Pros
- Compatible with most portable generators
- Capable of handling large loads
- Managing circuits is simple
- This manual transfer switch has a durable enclosure
Cons
- Generac 9854 doesn’t have a voltmeter
- Designed only for indoor use
Reliance Controls 31406 CRK
The ability to prevent backfeeding of the devices you are using or to handle up to 7500 running Watts, make the Reliance Controls 31406 CRK one of the best transfer switches on the market.
This model is suitable for home or office use, but it doesn’t have the capacity to support generators that are used for industrial applications. Even so, you can connect generators that have L14-20 or L14-30 outlets to this manual transfer switch.
The Reliance Controls 31406 CRK kit includes everything you need to connect a generator to the breaker box safely. The 30A power inlet box circuit breakers, the voltmeter, conduit whip, toggle switches, a power cord, and a plug are all included in this kit.
It is advisable to install this manual transfer switch indoors because its enclosure isn’t water-resistant.
Pros
- Equipped with voltmeter
- Designed for 20A and 30A generators
- Simple installation process
- Affordable
Cons
- Can’t handle loads larger than 7500 Watts
- Not suited for outdoor use
Schneider Electric Square D QO1DM10030TRBR
Switching between utility and generator electricity with Schneider Electric Square D QO1DM10030TRBR is easy, as you just have to flip the two main QO circuit breakers. This is a single-phase manual transfer switch that lets you choose between 120V and 240V power outputs.
What’s more, this model enables you to power up to eight circuits at the same time, while the mechanical interlock ensures that just one circuit is in the ON position.
This manual transfer switch has a 30A, 4 Watt L14-30 twist-lock receptacle that enables you to connect it directly to the generator. The model is designed for outdoor use and it is both ANSI and UL certified.
However, it cannot handle heavy loads, which means that you cannot use it with generators that produce more than 5000 running Watts.
Pros
- Small and lightweight
- The enclosure isn’t affected by rain
- Supports 120V and 240V power outputs
- Make switching between utility and generator electricity easy
Cons
- Compatible with a limited number of generators
- The installation process is difficult
Reliance Controls TF151W
Even though its design may not be as refined as the design of other Reliance Controls manual transfer switches, the TF151W model is still a great solution if you want to connect a small portable generator to your home’s electric system.
This manual transfer switch cannot handle loads larger than 1,875 rated Watts, which makes it an excellent option if you have a generator like Ryobi 2300 or Generac GP2200i.
You can switch between Line and Gen modes effortlessly, and the push-to-reset 15A circuit breaker provides additional protection while the device is in the Gen mode. The conduit whip is flexible which makes the installation process somewhat easier.
This manual transfer switch grants you control over a single circuit, so you won’t be able to control the power usage on different breakers your home appliances are connected to.
Pros
- Utilizes a standard extension cord
- Installing this transfer switch is not difficult
- Built from sturdy materials
- A 5-year warranty
Cons
- Cannot handle loads larger than 1,875 Watts
- TF151W doesn’t have a voltmeter
Frequently asked questions about transfer switches
Are manual transfer switches expensive?
You can spend anywhere between a few hundred and a thousand dollars on a manual transfer switch, depending on the features it offers.
How durable are manual transfer switches?
Most manual transfer switches can last for years without breaking down. Opting for a manual transfer switch with a long warranty period will enable you to replace any component that breaks down for free.
Where should I install the manual transfer switch?
You should consult an electrician when deciding where your manual transfer switch is going to be installed since some models are not designed for outdoor use.
Why do I have to connect the generator to a manual transfer switch?
The electricity produced by most conventional generators is not clean, and it can damage the home appliances. A manual transfer switch makes the electricity the generator produces safe for even the most sensitive electronics.
Conclusion
Having a power backup you can use every time the utility power goes out will enable you to continue your daily activities as if nothing has happened.
A manual transfer switch plays an important part in creating a reliable and safe alternative power source as it prevents the generator from damaging the circuits and home appliances.
However, the sizes of a manual transfer switch and the generator have to match so that you can use them without any safety concerns.
Most home backup generators produce around 7500 running watts, and a manual transfer switch like Connecticut Electric EGS107001G2 or Reliance Controls 31406 CRK can be a perfect choice if you have a generator in this size range.
Generac 9854 should be your go-to option if you have a generator that can produce up 50A or 11000 running Watts.
Which of the seven best manual transfer switches we included in this article are you going to choose? Leave a comment and let us know or follow the following link to learn more about the best diesel generators.
