How To Install Reliance 7500 Watt Transfer Switch Kit

A transfer switch is an electronic device that acts as a transfer portal of power between two sources. It's designed to allow your generator to provide power to specific circuits and prevent the generator from back-feeding the power line. How Much Does It Cost to Install Generator Transfer Switch

Additionally, with a transfer switch, you get to eliminate the need for running the extension cords. It's the safes way to power your home and stay up to code of generator installation.

It all depends on your generator applications. If you decide to install a transfer switch, hire a reputable and licensed electrician, and he will get it for you. However, that applies for the permanent standby generators, with a portable generator, you do not need a permit.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Generator Transfer Switch? (Answer)

The cost of installing a generator transfer switch is affected by various aspects and factors. They dictate how much you will use and how long the process will take. The pricing will depend on how much you spend buying the kit and how much you will pay for the labor.

1) Labor

Typically, it'll take an electrician around 3-4 hours to have a transfer switch installed. The current pricing is between $200 and $600 in labor, depending on the electrician you hired. Additionally, the electrician charges might change with installation difficulty depending on the transfer switch type, manual, or automatic.

2) Purchase costs

The buying costs will be affected by different models available, brand, transfer switch type, and capacity, among others. I will discuss each giving you some quotations so that you can prepare your budget correctly.

a) Transfer switch wattage

Transfer switches are available in various capacities to match the generator sizes. The size helps you determine the ideal switch to buy for your specific generator. For instance, if your generator provides 7500 watts of power, then you need a transfer switch that supports over 8000 watts.

If you have a portable generator with less than 5000 watts, then you need a 6-circuit switch. It costs around $250 to $300 .

If you have a generator with over 5000 watts and under 1Kw, then you need a 10-circuit switch, costing between $350 and $450. Above that, be prepared $450 and over .

b) Items in the kit

Most reputable manufacturers offer their transfer switches with complete accessory set needed for installation. That eliminates the need to buy additional parts, saving you some bucks. That's why I always suggest you check on the product description before purchase.

c) Transfer Switch Type

Transfer switches are of two main types: manual and automatic. The prices of the two also vary hugely. A manual transfer switch is cheaper and easy to install compared to the automatic transfer switch.

If you have a portable generator that you're hooking up to your home, a manual transfer switch is a reasonable, cost-effective model.

However, if you have a permanent standby generator that powers your huge home, get an automatic transfer switch. It's hand-free and automatically flips when there is a power blackout.

GLOBO TOOLS OVERVIEW:

A transfer switch is a legally accepted way of preventing back feeding that can lead to injuries or even death. It's also an acceptable replacement for interlock. For a small home or a portable generator, I would recommend you pick a cheaper option, the manual transfer switch. Also, for the best installation, hire a reputable, certified electrician for the job. That will help you avoid issues with authorities and your home insurance company.

Related Info:

How to Connect Portable Generator to Electrical Panel?
How to Connect Generator to House without Transfer Switch?
Interlock vs. Transfer Switch
How do Generators work?
Westinghouse ST Switch
How to Connect Generator to House with Transfer Switch?

About the author

I am Sharif, 22, a student, currently doing the BBA program. Besides, I am an online Blogger.