Read the manual thoroughly and understand all of the instructions, cautions, and warnings before using this equipment. If any section of the manual is not understood, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact Generac Customer Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or www.generac.com with any questions or concerns.
Note: This is only for service entrance rated switches that have an inner dead front cover and we do not recommend opening other styles of switches due to live component access: What's the Difference Between A Service-Entrance Rated and Non Service-Entrance Rated Transfer Switch?
Note: Do not attempt to manually run your home standby generator if it failed to start and shows signs of water intrusion following a storm surge event: Is it safe to run my home backup generator after a storm surge or hurricane?
Manual operation of an automatic transfer switch
In some scenarios, an automatic transfer switch must be manually operated in order to complete a transfer of power to the house.
Environment
This article is intended for Generac automatic transfer switches. This is only for service entrance rated switches that have an inner dead front cover and we do not recommend opening other styles of switches due to live component access: What's the Difference Between A Service-Entrance Rated and Non Service-Entrance Rated Transfer Switch?
Notes and warnings
Functional tests and adjustments
Following transfer switch installation and interconnection, inspect the entire installation carefully. A competent, qualified electrician should inspect it. The installation should comply strictly with all applicable codes, standards, and regulations. When absolutely certain the installation is proper and correct, complete a functional test of the system.
CAUTION: Equipment damage. Perform functional tests in the exact order they are presented in the manual. Failure to do so could result in equipment damage.
IMPORTANT: Before proceeding with functional tests, read and make sure all instructions and information in this section is understood. Also read the information and instructions of labels and decals affixed to the switch. Note any options or accessories that might be installed and review their operation.
Operating a manual transfer switch
DANGER: Electrocution. Do not manually transfer under load. Disconnect transfer switch from all power sources prior to manual transfer. Failure to do so will result in death or serious injury, and equipment damage.
A manual handle (B) is shipped with the transfer switch manual. Manual operation must be checked BEFORE the transfer switch is operated electrically. To check manual operation, proceed as follows:
1. Verify the generator is in the OFF mode.
2. Turn OFF both utility (service disconnect circuit breaker) and emergency (generator main line circuit breaker) power supplies to the transfer switch.
3. Note position of transfer mechanism main contacts (A) by observing the movable contact carrier arm. This can be viewed through the long narrow slot in the inside cover. The top of the movable contact carrier arm is yellow to be easily identified.
- Manual operation handle in the UP position - LOAD terminals (T1, T2) are connected to utility terminals (N1, N2).
- Manual operation handle in the DOWN position - LOAD terminals (T1, T2) are connected to EMERGENCY terminals (E1, E2)
CAUTION: Equipment damage. Do not use excessive force while manually operating the transfer switch. Doing so could result in equipment damage.
Close to utility source side
Before proceeding, verify the position of the switch by observing the position of manual operation handle in Figure 4-1. If the handle is UP, the contacts are closed in the utility (normal) position, no further action is required. If the handle is DOWN, proceed with Step 1.
1. With the handle inserted into the movable contact carrier arm, move handle UP. Be sure to hold on to the handle as it will move quickly after the center of travel.
2. Remove manual operating handle from movable contact carrier arm. Return handle to storage bracket. Failure to do so could result in equipment damage.
Return to utility source side
These instructions describe steps to shut down the generator and transfer back to the utility source after utility power has been restored.
1. Set the generator MLCB (generator disconnect) to OFF (OPEN).
2. Run the engine for one minute at no-load to stabilize the internal temperature.
3. Press the OFF button on the control panel. The engine with shut down.
4. Verify utility power supply to the transfer switch is turned OFF.
5. Set the main contacts to UTILITY (loads connected to utility power source) using manual transfer handle inside the transfer switch.
6. Turn on the utility power supply to the transfer switch using means provided (such as a utility MLCB).
7. Press the AUTO button on the control panel.
8. Set the generator MLCB (generator disconnect) to ON (CLOSED).
9. Close and lock the lid.
