Q: I have 200 amp service, with a 30 amp 5500 wattt generator, looking for a manual transfer switch. I plan on selecting the circuits that I want to have on. Just a transfer 200 amp....which one do you suggest.. by Richard from Arkansas on April 30, 2011
A: The following switch would be the perfect switch for your needs.
Q: Can you replace the factory breakers on the transfer switch with piggyback/tandem breakers so that you will be able to power more than 10 circuits with the Q310A by Joel from Louisiana on February 08, 2011
A: The way this switch is set up internally you cannot use the mini breakers in this unit to increase the number from 10 to 20. The top on off switch only operates each breaker location and to have multiple breakers in one slot it will not operate properly. To have better control over your existing panel a whole house type manual transfer switch should be selected based on your panels amperage rating.
Q: I have a 5550 watt portable generator but i noticed that in the manual it states that it has a starting wattage of 8550 watts. Will i need a transfer switch that can handle 8550 watts? by Lou from Pennsylvania on February 06, 2011
A: Transfer switches are based on the running wattage of generators as the starting wattage is normally only run for a matter of milliseconds.
You will want to base the transfer switch size matched to the largest outlet you have available on your generator. So, if you have a 30A 4-Prong outlet then you would want a 30A transfer switch and a Power Inlet box that is 30A with 4-Prongs. The 4-Prongs allows for 120/240V operation. by Jim, Product Expert
Q: Does the Q306C come as pictured with 6 breakers installed, or do I provide the breakers? by Bob from Maryland on February 05, 2011
A: This product is supplied with a combination of 15- and 20-amp circuit breakers. In some cases, a 30 amp double-pole breaker may be supplied in the A and B positions. All circuit breaker positions will accommodate 15- and 20-amp circuit breakers, and may be easily changed in the field. by Jim, Product Expert
Q: Hi Jim, I recently purchased a Generac XP8000E from Lowe's and I need to know what I need from you to hook it up for emergency use. I have 200 amp service and a GE main panel. by Eric from Missouri on February 05, 2011
A: The Reliance Controls model Q310A is a good choice for your transfer switch which gives you the flexibility to connect to any breaker in your panel since this model has interchangeable breakers.
You will then need to purchase a outdoor power inlet box such as the Reliance Controls PB30. This would be mounted outside close to where you will be running your generator for easy plug in. This item is hard wired directly to the manual transfer switch.
You will then need a 30A power cord to connect to the inlet box from the generator. The length would be dependent on where you are placing the generator in relation to the inlet box. A 4-prong type cord is needed for 120/240V. by Jim, Product Expert
Q: On the Q310A, could I pull the 20 amp 2 pole breaker out and install two 20 amp 1 pole breakers? Also is the only difference between the Q310A and the Q310C is the plug in that comes with the Q310A? by Steve Bill from Minnesota on February 04, 2011
A: Since both the Q310A and Q310C have interchangeable breakers, yes, the 2-pole breaker can be switched out to two 1-pole breakers.
The only difference between the Q310A and the Q310C is the addition of the plug outlet included with the Q310A model.
Q: Hello. What are the main differences between the Q310A and the 31410CRK switches? by Raegen Carr from Florida on January 23, 2011
A: The "Q" Series Reliance Controls transfer switches have interchangeable breakers and their "Pro/Tran" Series do not.
Advantage of interchangeable breakers allows you to adapt the switch to your specific needs. by Jim, Product Expert
Q: I have a new Honeywell HW7500E portable generator that I wish to use for backup in my manufactured home. I'm looking at your Reliance Model Q310A 30 amp transfer switch. I can mount the switch under my panel where it will be about 2 feet from the outside wall. On the other side of that wall is my generator which I would like to keep about 20 feet from the house. My question is this: What components, other than the switch, will I need to get the power from my generator, through the wall and into the house and from there, into the Model Q310A 30 amp transfer switch? by Terry Miller from Arizona on January 22, 2011
A: You would need to purchase a outdoor power inlet box which is basically an outlet you plug the generator into outside. This inlet box is then wired directly to the transfer switch providing the needed power from the generator.
Jim Baugher, Product Expert Electric Generators Direct
Jim's Recommendation
The Reliance Q Series features 1-inch interchangeable circuit breakers. A 30A double-pole circuit breaker and a 20A double-pole circuit breaker, to handle heavier loads on the generator side, are included on each model. The balance of the circuit breakers are single-pole 15A, in the transfer switch these may be connected to 15A or 20A circuits in the load center. Circuits are limited to 15A only on the generator side of the switch.
One of the largest benefits we see is that the circuit breakers in the transfer switch are easily replaced. The spaces containing the 30A and 20A double-pole circuits may be replaced with 15 or 20A single-pole breakers if desired.
If you have a portable generator less than 7500 Watts this transfer switch can be an easy way to avoid running cords all around your house. Plan ahead and have this transfer switch installed to save even more headaches during a power outage!
January 14, 2012
Dennis
Worth The Price
The Honda generator wheel & handle kit was very easy to assemble and the owner's manual is easy to follow for generator operation. After set-up, the generator started right up. I tested it out with my newly installed Q310A Reliance Controls Transfer Switch. The generator works flawlessly. Now I'm ready for what Mother Nature can throw at me.
The Reliance Controls Transfer Switch instructions were very easy to follow and the switch was easy to install.
December 07, 2011
Tony Tullytown, PA
A Good Example Of An Inter-Changable Model
Installation was pretty easy... Planning ahead on which circuits to use will help quite a bit.
If you double click on the Transfer box, the far left came as a double pole 30 amp breaker.I removed it swapped over two 15 amp breakers. If we had an electric water heater, it would have stayed.Also replaced 5 of the 6 -15 Amp breakers with 5- 20Ampers. Electrician friend and I swapped. We kept the double pole 20Amp for a thru the wall large Air Conditioner..24Kbtu.
Electric stove, washer, dryer etc were not connected. Too much draw and really not needed in a crisis...
So, we managed to get 9 circuits energized via the transfer box. The power assist box is located on the outside wall of our deck and was drilled thru into the basement. The 30Amp Power cable was bought at the big box store along with the male/female ends as we were not sure at the time where we were going to locate the outdoor power assist box. We changed our location 3xs...
So all and all, about 4 hrs including a trip to the store for the extras..I also realized that to test, I didn't have to shut any panel box circuits off.The double throw switches prevent any backflow....Very impressed with the equipment and am sure it will be a lifesaver next power outage.
Installation was pretty easy... Planning ahead on which circuits to use will help quite a bit.
If you double click on the Transfer box, the far left came as a double pole 30 amp breaker.I removed it swapped over two 15 amp breakers. If we had an electric water heater, it would have stayed.Also replaced 5 of the 6 -15 Amp breakers with 5- 20Ampers. Electrician friend and I swapped. We kept the double pole 20Amp for a thru the wall large Air Conditioner..24Kbtu.
Electric stove, washer, dryer etc were not connected. Too much draw and really not needed in a crisis...
... more
September 27, 2011
Rich Newton, NJ
Happy Customer
I purchased my Reliance Q310A transfer switch from Electric Generators Direct after hurricane Irene left us without power for five days. It arrived earlier than promised and impressed me as a well-made and well thought-out product. After watching Reliance’s on-line instructional video and determining which circuits I wanted to route through the switch, the actual installation took only a few hours. The Q310 has interchangeable circuit breakers and I had to swap out a few of the supplied ones to accommodate my needs. Fortunately it uses an inexpensive style breaker that I was able to pick up at the local home improvement store for next to nothing.
I wound up installing a Reliance PB30 Input Box on the outside of the house, so I could have bought the Q310C (without the receptacle) for $10.00 less. But I wasn’t sure what I was going to do when I ordered it, so I wanted to keep my options open.
The bottom line is: I’m very happy with the Reliance Q310 and with Generators Direct (who had it at an excellent price with free shipping). The instructions were very clear and the installation went off without a hitch. I would heartily recommend the Reliance Controls Q310 transfer switch and Electric Generators Direct to anyone.
One final recommendation for anyone installing this switch themselves: Plan everything before doing anything - Then it will be easy.
Bring on the next hurricane!
I purchased my Reliance Q310A transfer switch from Electric Generators Direct after hurricane Irene left us without power for five days. It arrived earlier than promised and impressed me as a well-made and well thought-out product. After watching Reliance’s on-line instructional video and determining which circuits I wanted to route through the switch, the actual installation took only a few hours. The Q310 has interchangeable circuit breakers and I had to swap out a few of the supplied ones to accommodate my needs. Fortunately it uses an inexpensive style breaker that I was able to pick up at... more
May 12, 2011
Steve Moorhead, MN
Ready in MN
I did alot of research on transfer switches verses an interlock switch. After deciding the transfer switch was the way to go, I looked at what my local stores and what the internet had to offer.
The Reliance internet site was the best I found and the video they have on installation was great. I then found Electric Generators Direct web site to be the best. The details, selections, and ability to email questions was awesome. Their prices were good and in my opinion the reliance Q310A is the perfect model and design. Nothing else comes close.
If you get something smaller you will probably regret it someday and if you get a larger model you better have a big generator hooked up to your gas line.
I did alot of research on transfer switches verses an interlock switch. After deciding the transfer switch was the way to go, I looked at what my local stores and what the internet had to offer.
The Reliance internet site was the best I found and the video they have on installation was great. I then found Electric Generators Direct web site to be the best. The details, selections, and ability to email questions was awesome. Their prices were good and in my opinion the reliance Q310A is the perfect model and design. Nothing else comes close.
All purchases showed up quickly and in good condition. The pre-wired transfer switch w/ instructions were easy to follow and thorough to make the hook up with the main panel selected circuits complete.
After completion of the installation I did a test of the whole unit and we now feel more confident of not having a complete power failure in an emergency.
January 12, 2011
Richard Chestnut Palestine, TX
Q310a Transfer Switch
Electric Generators Direct came through with flying colors!! Ordered my transfer switch online and it seemed that almost immediately I had confirmation and order was showing shipped.
Arrived at my house a day earlier than predicted. It took two hours (at a comfortable pace) to install and test. I'm ready for the next power outage. Thanks again.
January 08, 2011
Rusty Mason Lake Stevens, WA
Simple, Clean Looking Unit
I am very happy with our choice to buy from Reliance Controls. My purchase was easy and came on time with no problems. The Q310A was a simple clean looking unit to install.
The job went quick and looked nice when I was done. My customer was happy, my Electrical Inspector was happy and that's all I ask.
Thank you Reliance Controls, I will use you again.
Rusty Mason,
Owner Mason Electric & Construction
July 03, 2010
Jim A. Chicagoland, IL
Easy set up
Purchased this set up for occasional power outages.
Instructions are fantastic and easy to follow. The whole set up took me no more than 3 hours to complete and that included a trip to the local store for black, white, red, and green 10-gauge wire for the power inlet box, some 20-amp breakers because I wanted to change the box around a little and, some other small items.
Watch the videos on Reliance Controls web site as well as read the directions a few times prior to install and you should have no problem getting this installed.
June 27, 2010
Frank Fishbeck Alvin, TX
Very Happy
A very good product. It was very easy to install if you understand electricity and you are a good DIYer. I
t works just like they say it does and I'm very happy with it.
EGD RESPONDS: Please check local ordinances for electrical panel installation and/or modification; some require work to be done or certified by a licensed electrician.
May 02, 2010
Donald Dahl Port Orchard, WA
Heavy Duty & Easy To Install
The transfer switch is heavy duty and easy to install. The instructions were simple and you can even see a connection video at the company site.
I managed to power up the entire house with the exception of the stove. If I run the electric water heater I obviously have to limit other loads.
March 11, 2010
Lonny Wagener Greensburg, IN
Nice piece of equipment
I have a 6500 Watt generator and own a home with geothermal heat and electric water heater, and a gas fireplace for backup heat.
This 10 circuit switch is a tad bit large for my generator, but I wanted the capability to have lights, microwave, sump pump, and refrigerator circuits powered, or by turning these circuits off during the day, I can turn the hot water heater on to heat our water.
Once the water is hot, I can shut the 220 circuit off and turn all eight of the remaining circuits on which would allow us to live normally.
I used the Q Series recess kit to recess into the wall. The total installation time was approximately five hours at a relaxed pace.
Anyone with basic carpentry and electrical skills can achieve the same results I have. Instructions were excellent.
Once I identified the circuits I wanted to operate on the generator, I used an amp clamp to pre-plan balancing the generator load, thus actual installation was a breeze.
I used small color dots, seen in the picture, to identify importance and these match up with the identical color dot placed in the main fuse box on the circuit breaker.
I have given a picture to display how nice the panel looks recessed. It's a nice piece of equipment.
In the future should the need again arise for either a generator or transfer switch, I definitely will buy from this company.
I found their help to be superb and highly recommend them.
I have a 6500 Watt generator and own a home with geothermal heat and electric water heater, and a gas fireplace for backup heat.
This 10 circuit switch is a tad bit large for my generator, but I wanted the capability to have lights, microwave, sump pump, and refrigerator circuits powered, or by turning these circuits off during the day, I can turn the hot water heater on to heat our water.
Once the water is hot, I can shut the 220 circuit off and turn all eight of the remaining circuits on which would allow us to live normally.
I just want to pass along the excellent service and equipment your company provides.
I placed an order and within days the components started to arrive, and the generator was delivered right to my doorstep.
I received this equipment just as the second major snow storm arrived in Texas.
First class equipment and a wonderful, honest company- need I say anymore?!
February 24, 2010
Michael Young Weaverville, NC
American Made With Pride
Reliance Controls has helped to restore my faith in AMERICAN and MADE with PRIDE.
It is high quality, built well, and functions perfectly as advertised- well worth the investment.
I give it a five star rating... I made my own hinged plexiglass cover to prevent dust intrusion from the shop.
Excellent experience and service from Electric Generators Direct, I would definitely purchase from them in the future.
November 24, 2009
Thomas Newton New Haven, KY
Great Product
I installed this unit without a hitch. I recessed the switch in the wall.
I took the NEMA Plug out and Hard wired the switch. The directions were good.
Don't mind the patchy drywall. It is temporary until I get a new sheet to cut a one-piece replacement.
I would buy Reliance from this website again.
Fast shipping, no problems.
December 15, 2011
Stan Shelton, CT
GP6500E
The generator seems to fit my needs perfectly. I purchased an EMERGENCY unit since it will only receive limited duty but will have excellent care and maintenance. I do expect longevity of this unit using it as stated, time will tell. The customer service at EGD is nothing short of the best I've dealt with. Kris is extremely knowledgeable, polite, and most helpful with any and all questions asked of him.
The Century cable is capable of doing what it was designed to do.
The Transfer switch is a neat package with many options to suit most anyone's needs.
The Reliance PC3040 also purchased appears ok, but there are issues that are being addressed ongoing. They (Reliance) also have an excellent service orientated dept. represented by Nick who is working on these issues with me. Hopefully all will work out in the final analysis.
The generator seems to fit my needs perfectly. I purchased an EMERGENCY unit since it will only receive limited duty but will have excellent care and maintenance. I do expect longevity of this unit using it as stated, time will tell. The customer service at EGD is nothing short of the best I've dealt with. Kris is extremely knowledgeable, polite, and most helpful with any and all questions asked of him.
The Century cable is capable of doing what it was designed to do.
The Transfer switch is a neat package with many options to suit most anyone's needs. more
September 12, 2011
Michael Downers Grove, IL
Bring It On!
And ComEd didn't let me down. Four days after having transfer switch installed, ComEd is down for six hours. Our neighborhood is cursed. My one practice run through after installation made things go perfectly. Generator fired right up, flipped a few switches and we had lights, TV, fans, freezer and fridge and peace of mind. Only house in neighborhood that had power. And I was worrying that I had talked my wife into a big ticket item that we would hardly use. She's Generac's biggest fan now.
Only two concerns: I was told in a q and a with your firm that unit was made in the U.S. Not the case. Made in China. I would have gone to a bigger model to get made in the USA. And ad on the web site talked of "handles." But model has only one, which is ok for me but more difficult for my wife.
And ComEd didn't let me down. Four days after having transfer switch installed, ComEd is down for six hours. Our neighborhood is cursed. My one practice run through after installation made things go perfectly. Generator fired right up, flipped a few switches and we had lights, TV, fans, freezer and fridge and peace of mind. Only house in neighborhood that had power. And I was worrying that I had talked my wife into a big ticket item that we would hardly use. She's Generac's biggest fan now.
Only two concerns: I was told in a q and a with your firm that unit was made in th... more
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 Transfer Switch w/ Interchangeable Breakers at Electric Generators Direct includes a factory-direct discount and a tax-free guarantee. "Pin It")
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