Installation Guide

8
Operating Instructions
Using your Reliance Transfer Switch and Your Portable Generator
You want your generator to be ready when you need it. Therefore, it is important to
perform the following steps at least once a month to keep the generator in peak running
condition.
• Start and run your generator under load regularly.
• Keep the fuel tank filled with fresh fuel.
It is not necessary to turn off any circuits in the load center when supplying generator
power with the transfer switch, even when the utility power is operating normally. The
double-throw action of these switches prevents feeding generator power to the utility and,
conversely, prevents feeding utility power to the generator.
Transferring from Utility Power to Generator Power
1. Plug the female connector of the generator power cord into the power inlet box or the
power inlet on the transfer switch. All circuit selector switches on the transfer switch
should be in the LINE or OFF position.
2. Insert the male plug of the power cord into the outlet on the generator.
3. Start the generator outdoors. Follow the procedures described in the generator
owner's manual furnished by the manufacturer of the generator.
4. Select the circuits to be powered by the generator by moving the corresponding
switches on the transfer switch to the GEN position. Use only necessary household
items when under generator power.
5. Alternate use of larger loads (furnace motors, well pumps, refrigerators, etc.) to
balance the load. See "Balancing the load" on page 4. Do not exceed the maximum
wattage of the transfer switch.
6. A 15 amp. transfer switch circuit breaker will limit that circuit to a maximum of 15 amps
when in the GEN position. If you have moved a circuit selector switch on such a 15-
amp circuit to the GEN position that controls a branch circuit that normally draws more
than 15 amps, it may be necessary to turn off some of the appliances on that circuit to
avoid exceeding the 15-amp load for that circuit.
7. Determine circuit wattage by using the wattmeters on the transfer switch, or from the
nameplate on each appliance or motor. Very small loads may not be sufficient to
cause a meter to register.
8. Models with suffix -B and -D do not have watt meters. Determine wattage from the
nameplate on each appliance or motor.
9. Make a note of any excessive loads. These loads must be turned off during
generator operation.
Warning: Do not operate a generator in an enclosed area.
Do not operate a generator where the exhaust
fumes can accumulate in an enclosed area.